Nutrient deficient forage for critically endangered Cervus hanglu hanglu: A serious concern for conservationists

The present study reports the distribution of preferred forage and its nutritional composition with respect to four different habitats (Riverine, Grassland/Scrub, Mixed-Woodland, Pine-Parrotiopsis) of critically endangered Cervus hanglu hanglu (Hangul) in Dachigam National Park, Jammu and Kashmir of Indian Himalaya for autumn season. This preferred forage is documented and analyzed to establish a data base on the nutritional status of hangul for better understanding of management measures, ensuring effective conservation. The study area was sampled with stratified random sampling design by laying down three (03) transects each in Four (04) selected habitats. The results reveal that 25 preferred plant species are available across four different habitats dominated by riverine (16), grassland/scrub (10), mixed-woodland (9) and eight (8) in pine-parrotiopsis. Hangul rely on variety of forage species for important nutrients that support their physiological functions and nutritional requirements. The assessment of nutrient quality of habitats indicates that with regard to protein content which is influential for growth of deer, especially for fawns and yearlings, maximum of it is found in Hedera nepalensis (17.30%) from pine-parrotiopsis habitat. The study concludes that the different habitats in Dachigam National park can sustain more of the adult deer individuals which require 6 to 8 percent for their maintenance but young and growing deer may face deficit of it which is of great concern for the fawn survival in Hangul population. Our study indicates that enhancing these habitats by vegetatively propagating highly nutritious species that would satisfy the nutritional requirements of deer throughout the year may have an important role in managing a healthy deer population.