Ahmedabad: In a small area in Ratanmahal Sanctuary, local elder said there was a group of 50-odd giants Indian squirrel (IGF).
This number has dropped to only seven in the area.
The overall level of IGF encounters in the state, as reported by a study, is 0.14 individual / km at this time.
Research paper “distribution and relative abundance of Indian giant fly squirrels (mapurista philippensis) in Gujarat, India,” by Nisha Singh and Nishith Dharaya from the Laboratory of Wildlife Biology Research and Conservation, Department of Science, Hemchandracharya University of North Gujarat University, Patan, Has Has First Perform expected to use a field survey encountered flying squirrels only 33 times at 14 sites, dominantly located in the protected area.
“Fifteen sites are in the protected area, while 18 sites are present outside or on the outskirts of protected areas.
The highest number of IGF sightings recorded in Central Gujarat, has two wildlife reserves, Ratahal and Jambughoda and some unprotected forest spots, followed by the southern part Gujarat and at least in North Gujarat, “paper countries.
Singh told Tii, “There are no sighting records, or even the census available and therefore cannot compare current visual data with official records of the past.
But based on field interviews, it believes that the number is reduced and the appearance has fallen.
The majority of IGF sightings ( 76.19%) occur in protected areas, and only 23.81% of sightings occur in the forest ordered.
Even in protected areas, the squirrel was found limited to small patches.
During one field interview in Ratanmahal we were told that before a group of 50-IGF Strangely seen in a small village, but now rarely, and someone can hardly find seven to eight individuals.
“” During the study, most of the Solitary Indian giants flying squirrels were observed, with the exception of being a woman with young people or married couples.
Sequences several IGF Made during the study in April (mating season) in Central Gujarat, “he said.
The research paper stated “the practice of hunting is the reason for the distribution of patches of IGFS in Ghats Timur.
Habitat levels, forest fragments, forest connectivity, vegetation, tree species, and height of playing an important role in distributing Arboreal species.” IGF occupies various habitats (Moist and autumn forest.
Dry) and a relatively small house circuit vary from 0.46 to 5.16 hectares depending on food distribution and nesting sites.
Suggestions and findings of Indian giant fly squirrels are locked in East Belt Gujarat, with more dense populations in Central Gujarat than in other areas in the state.
Tree species that provide food and reasons for nesting to breed can affect the distribution of IGFS.
The lack of hunting practices along the suitable habitat has helped the IGF population to grow in Central Gujarat.
During the survey, it was felt that people were not too aware of the presence and ecology of Flying Squirrel because of its nocturnal and cryptic habits.
“These situations also stand as a challenge before policy makers to educate tribes, produce awareness and prepare species species management plans.
Increase the human population, interference, and intensive human encroachment in the forest region to disrupt squirrel habitat.
Looking at a low level of reproduction.
And abundance in this study, hunting, and habitat modification will play an important role in determining the future of this species in Gujarat, “said the paper.