Vulture distribution and people perception of vultures in Pokhara Valley, Nepal

Ecology and Evolution

Narendra Man Babu Pradhan¹  Krishna Prasad Bhusal¹  Hari Prasad Sharma²  Hemanta Dhakal³  Munir Virani⁴  Brian W. Rolek⁴  Christopher J. W. McClure⁴ 

[1] Bird Conservation Nepal Kathmandu Nepal;Central Department of Zoology Tribhuvan University Kathmandu Nepal;Department of Zoology, Prithvi Narayan Multiple Campus Pokhara Tribhuvan University Pokhara Nepal;The Peregrine Fund Boise Idaho USA;

关键词: abundance;    birds;    conservation;    habitat loss;    population;    vulture;   

DOI  :  10.1002/ece3.8528

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Abstract Due to an abundance and diversity of vultures, Nepal is one of the most important countries for vulture conservation. Within Nepal, the Pokhara Valley is especially significant. We examine the distribution of vultures within the Pokhara Valley by conducting counts at 11 potential feeding or roosting sites using point count method. We further surveyed people of the valley regarding their perception of vulture ecology and conservation, knowledge of diclofenac use within the valley, and burial of livestock carcasses. We detected eight species of vultures, four of which are currently threatened with extinction. White‐rumped vulture Gyps bengalensis, Egyptian vulture Nephron percnopterus, and Himalayan vulture G. himalayensis were the most abundant. Almost all respondents (98%) had sighted the vultures in the wild. Formally educated respondents reported seeing vultures’ slightly more than nonformally educated respondents. Fifty‐eight percent respondents suspected habitat loss was the major threat for the vulture population decline in Pokhara Valley, and 97% respondents were not aware of any diclofenac use. The knowledge of vultures in people with different age groups suggests a more awareness programs are needed for local people, especially those who carry out animal husbandry and provide livestock to the vulture restaurant.

【 授权许可】

Unknown