Date of Publication: 21 May 2016

Vol. XXXI, No. 5, May 2016 ISSN 0971-6378 (Print); 0973-2543 (Online)

Magazine of Zoo Outreach Organization

Mass occurrence of stink bug Catacanthus incarnatus (Dury) on Gmelina arborea Roxb. in Satara, Maharashtara, Pp. 8-9

Magazine of Zoo Outreach OrganizationVol. XXXI, No. 5, May 2016 ISSN 0971-6378 (Print); 0973-2543 (Online)

New reptile exhibit at the Kamala Nehru Zoological Garden, Kankaria, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Rishit Shroff and R.K. Sahu, Pp. 1-5

Hemigraphis hirta (Vahl) T. Anders. (Acanthaceae): A New Record for Kerala, C.N. Sunil and V.V. Naveen Kumar, Pp. 6-7

Mass occurrence of stink bug Catacanthus incarnatus (Dury) on Gmelina arborea Roxb. in Satara, Maharashtara, S.V. Thite and B.A. Kore, Pp. 8-9

New location record for Northern Tree Shrew from Bihar, Mohd Shahnawaz Khan, Anjana Pant and Sathiaseelan Sudhakar, Pp. 10-11

Status of Management and Conservation of UNESCO World Natural Heritage sites in India, Tarun Kathula, Pp. 12-13

Horseshoe Crab (Tachypleus gigas) as Prey of Domestic Pig (Sus domesticus) in Khandia estuary, Balasore, Odisha, India, Siddhartha Pati and Bisnu Prasad Dash, Pp. 14-15

Sightings of Northern Pig-tailed Macaque (Macaca leonina) Blyth (1863) in Assam University Campus, Silchar, Assam, Jayanta Kumar Roy, Manabendra Ray Choudhury, Biswajit Chakdar, Panna Deb and Hilloljyoti Singha, Pp. 16-18

Striped Keelback in the diet of White-throated kingfisher, Dishant Parasharya, Janki Teli and B.M. Parasharya, Pp. 19-20

Case report: Prey luring behaviour using beak by little egret Egretta garzetta, S. Vijayan, T.T. Lotan, R. Vardi, A. Koplovich, Y. Dubinsky, A. Pyakurel, Z. Abramsky, Pp. 21-22

ZOOLEX: Zoo Zurich, Indian Lions Exhibit, Pp. 23-26

Education report, P. 27

AnnouncementsNational Conference on Impact of Climate Change on Biodiversity: Applications of Recent Technologies for Conservation of Threatened Species, September 22-24, 2016, Aizawl, Mizoram, P. 9Advanced School on Earth System Modelling & Workshop on Climate Change and Regional Impacts over South Asia, July 18-29 2016, IITM, Pune, P. 18Research personnel wanted for Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology, P. 2015th International Elephant & Rhino Conservation and Research Symposium, Singapore Zoo, November 14-18 2016, Singapore, P. 229th NABS National Conference on New Biological Researches: Opportunities and Challenges for Sustainable Development, 11-12 Aug 2016 at Madurai, P. 282016 - Year of the Otter, Back cover

Contents

New reptile exhibit at the Kamala Nehru Zoological Garden, Kankaria, Ahmedabad, Pp. 1-5

Striped Keelback in the diet of White-throated kingfisher, Pp. 19-20

ZOOLEX: Zoo Zurich, Indian Lions Exhibit, Pp. 23-26

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 1

The Kamala Nehru Zoological Garden (better known as Kankaria Zoo) situated on the outer periphery of the Kankaria Lake in Ahmedabad, was established in 1951, and is spread over an area of 117 Acres, supported by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC). This Zoo boasts about housing a number of animals and birds, including albino and rare species. As time and technology progressed, many enclosures have undergone renovation over the years, but the major full-scale renovation of any type of enclosure began with the reptile section.

DescriptionThe reptile section was located in an oval-shaped area, having a wire mesh for the roof, covered with plants and creepers. The enclosures were very small, and uncomfortable for the comfort of both, the reptiles and the keepers. They were also low in height, and it was difficult for the visitors to see the reptiles housed within. It was approached by a road, gradually sloping down from a height of about 6.7m. supported by sloping retaining walls, covered with natural rockery and a number of large trees growing within. It was also surrounded by enclosures housing birds like Budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus).

Preliminary discussions led to an idea of building the new enclosures around the existing ones, and to make use of the level difference of 6.7m by relocating the bird enclosures on top of the reptile enclosures, to be done in two phases. The ideas is to have a building energy efficient, to have a uniqueness of its own, such that it also makes an impact on the sub-conscious minds of the visitors, especially children, and to create minimum disturbance to the existing reptile enclosures. The

enclsoures also had to comply with the latest norms and recommendations of the CZA (Cental Zoo Authority of India).

Approach towards design Hence, the building was visualized as a vaulted structure, springing from the external wall of the existing enclosures forming the back of a giant dinosaur,

terminating in a flat roof, housing the reptiles below, and the relocated bird enclosures above.

New reptile exhibit at the Kamala Nehru Zoological Garden, Kankaria, Ahmedabad, GujaratRishit Shroff1 and R.K. Sahu2

1Architects & Interior Designers, C 202, Titanium Square, Opp Acropolis, Thaltej Cross Roads, S G Road, Ahmedabad. Email: rjshroff@gmail.com2Superintendent, Kamla Nehru Zoological Park, Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Email: rksahu63@gmail.com

Existing reptile house at Kankaria Zoo

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The entry and exit were from under the head and the tail of the giant dinosaur. The scales of the dinosaur served as ventilation ports for the visitor passage. The dinosaur shape also tells us the tale of the history of evolution of reptiles.

Building designThe building was thus designed to accommodate 18 large sized enclosures, spread over an area of approximately 745 sq.m, the average dimensions of each enclosure being 2.8m. wide, 3.5 m deep and 2.75m high. Provision was also made for two large sized enclosures of size 10.6m. wide, 9m deep, 2.75m high and 6.9m wide, 6.5m deep, 2.75 m high respectively to house Indian Rock Pythons (Python molurus) and the Green Anaconda (Eunectes

Proposed upper and lower level plans

Sectional elevationsVisitor’s passage view

Total Built up area Approximately 745 sq. mt.Total No. of Enclosures

18

Date of Completion 25-12-2009

Salient features

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murinus). One enclosure was also to be specially designed for aquatic reptiles, having size 6.7 mt. wide, 3.65m deep and 2.75m high. All the enclosures were sandwiched in between two passages, abutting a wide, curved visitor passage in the front, and another keeper passage in the back. They were “sector-shaped” converging on the center of the curved external wall of the existing enclosures. The main design philosophy was to design a building such that it caters first and foremost to the comfort of the live exhibits/inhabitants (reptiles), then to the comfort of the keepers/ handlers and last but not the least, to the viewing comfort of the visitors.

Sr no.

Exhibit Allotted Enclosure

Enclosure Size

Substrate Vegetation & Enrichment

1 Common Monitor LizardVeranus bengalensis

1 Medium Soil, litter. moss Creepers, strong weight bearing tree trunks

2 Water Monitor LizardVeranus salvator

2 Medium Soil, litter. moss Larger water body, hiding places and rockery

3 Common Trinket SnakeCoelognathus helena

3 Medium Wood shaving, leaf litter Small bushes, grass, rock clusters

4 Indian Rat SnakePtyus mucosus

4 Medium Dry leaves, soil Arboreal and grassy habitat, rock clusters

5 Spectacled CobraNaja naja

5 & 6 Medium Leaf litter, soil, wood shavings

Banboo, termite mounds, rock clusters

6 Russell's ViperDaboia russelli

7 Medium Dry leaves and grass,soil Plants and rock clusters

7 Indian Star TortoiseGeochelon elegans

8 Medium Soil and sand Shrubs

8 Indian Rock PythonPython molurus

9 & 16 Large Soil, leaf litter Large water body, river stone clusters, shrubs, large tree trunks/trees

9 Marsh Crocodile BabiesCrocodylus palustris

10 Medium Sand, straw River bank grass

10 Common Indian KraitBungarus caerulus

11 Small Sand, wood chips, gravel Shrubs, grass, loose stone piles

11 Saw Scaled ViperEchis carinatus

12 Small Soil, gravel,bark Cactii, arid plant species

12 Common Sand BoaGongylophys conicus

13 Small Sand, gravel Rockery, shrubs

13 Red Sand BoaEryx johnii

14 Small Sand, gravel Rockery, shrubs

14 Green KeelbackMacrophistodon plumbicolor

15 Small Sand, gravel Rocks, shrubs

15 Checkered KeelbackXenochropis piscator &Indian Flap Shell TurtleLessemys punctata punctata

17 Aquatic Sand, gravel, pebbles of different sizes, large water body, branches

Shrubs, rock formations

Reptile collection list

Building overview

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Comfort of the reptiles housed withinThis was achieved as follows -• Providing sufficiently large sized enclosures which provide ample opportunity to create different details in enrichment, being as close to the natural habitat as possible.• Providing species specific enrichment like land-water ratio, rockery, substrate and vegetation – all of natural materials only.• Reptiles, being ectotherms, are dependent on the atmospheric temperature to regulate their body

temperature. Ahmedabad has a hot, semi-arid climate, with marginally less rain than required for a tropical savanna climate. There are three main seasons: summer, monsoon and winter. Aside from the monsoon season, the climate is extremely dry. The weather is hot from March to June; the average summer maximum temperature is 41°C (106°F), and the average minimum is 27°C (81°F). From November to February, the average maximum temperature is 30°C (86°F), the average minimum is 15°C (59°F),

and the climate is extremely dry. Cold northerly winds are responsible for a mild chill in January. The southwest monsoon brings a humid climate from mid-June to mid-September. The average annual rainfall is about 800 millimetres (31 in). The highest temperature recorded is 48.5°C (119.3°F). Hence, the biggest challenge was to design a building such that it could maintain a temperature range between 28°C (82.4°F) to 32°C (89.6°F), throughout the year. This temperature is most conducive for the reptiles. This was achieved by using air coolers, that were connected through a customized ducting system, with strategically placed ventilation. The cooling effect was further enhanced by the shade of the thick canopy of trees that were left to be a part of the building. This also negated the use of costly and energy consuming air-conditioners, thus making the building energy efficient.• Every enclosure also has a provision for direct sunlight to enter through an opening in the ceiling, to facilitate basking.

Comfort of the Handler/Keeper The first author (RS), apart from being the Architect of the enclosures, is also an experienced reptile handler. Thus, he is well aware of the difficulty faced by the reptile keepers in different zoos all over the country. Hence, special attention has been given to the keeper section.• All enclosures are approached by a full-length door, having full view of the space within. • The height of the enclosures is such that a man can stand fully erect when within.• The services are designed such that the keeper does not have to enter the enclosures for daily work like draining and refilling the water bodies, working the lights or air coolers. • The keeper passage is quite wide, well lit and ventilated. It also has ample space for the

Interior Enclosure

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keepers to keep their safety equipment, service wheel barrows and personal belongings.• It is also kept cool and ventilated by the air cooler ducting system and by the shade of the trees growing through it.• All enclosures have proper information and signage such that even replacement keepers who are not experienced in handling venomous reptiles can safely negotiate their way around.

Visitor / Viewer comfort• Entry and exit through the head and tail of the dinosaur, create interest and awe.• Large, 3.7m wide passage, with air-vents at regular intervals in the ceiling.• The enclosures are designed such that they have been fixed with large, full height, tilted viewing glass. The passage is deliberately designed to be darker than the interiors of the enclosures, thus offering clear, unhindered viewing experience.• Precise, to-the point, back lit information signage.• The floor height of the enclosures is determined according to the average height of 5 year old kids.• The highlight of the enclosures is the aquatic reptile enclosure, that offers a view of the reptiles within and outside the water.• Well designed safety rail, ensuring proper viewing distance and safety.

AchievementsOn 18th July 2015, 18 hatchlings of the Indian Rock Python (Python molurus) hatched in the new enclosures after an incubation period of 60 days. This is by far the highest number and the only incident of hatchlings of the Indian Rock Pythons in captivity in the 64 year old history of Kankaria Zoo!

The newly hatched Indian Rock Python hatchlings at Kankaria Zoo

Keeper Section

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AbstractHemigraphis hirta (Vahl) T. Anders. is reported for the first time from Kerala. Detailed description and illustrations are provided.

During the course of floristic studies in Ernakulam District of Kerala, the authors came across an interesting species of Hemigraphis in unused lands of Ernakulam. A detailed study with all necessary literature, it is identified as Hemigraphis hirta (Vahl) T. Anders.

The genus Hemigraphis Nees. has about 90 species (Mabberley, 2008) mostly distributed in tropical regions of the world. Hemigraphis hirta (Vahl) T. Anders. is so far known only from Tropical Himalaya and India. In India, this species was first reported from West Bengal. Hence the occurrence of this plant in Willingdon Island, Fort Kochi and Nettoor of Ernakulam district of Kerala forms a new distributional record for the state of Kerala. A detailed description, illustrations and relevant notes are provided for easy identification of the species. The specimens have been deposited in the herbaria of S.N.M. College, Maliankara.

Hemigraphis hirta (Vahl) T. Anders., Journ. Linn. Soc. 9: 462. 1867; Clarke in Hook.f., Fl. Brit. India 4: 422. 1884; Gamble Fl. Pres. Madras 1018. 1924; Karthikeyan, Sanjappa & Moorthy, Fl. Pl. India (Dicotyledons) 1: 19. 2009. Ruellia hirta Vahl, Symb. Bot. 3: 84, t.67. 1794; Roxb., Fl. Ind. 3: 46. 1832. Ruellia sarmentosa Nees, Wall. Pl. As. Rar. 3: 83. 1832.

Prostrate herbs, with trailing branches; stem strigose. Leaves 1.5-6 × 1.2-3.5 cm, orbicular or ovate-elliptic, base cuneate, margins serrate or crenate, apex

acute or obtuse, strigose; petiole to 1 cm long. Flowers sessile, in terminal bracteate heads or spikes. Bracts imbricate, outer leafy, upto 15 × 10 mm, ovate or elliptic, strigose, inner bracts smaller. Calyx 5- partite; tube ca 3 mm long; lobes unequal 2.5–4 × ca 1 mm, linear, obtuse or acute at apex, 1- nerved, green, hirsute

without, adpressed hairy inside; fruiting calyx 10–12 × ca 1.5 mm. Corolla purple; tube 11–13 mm long, narrow and slender below and companulate above; lobes 5,

Hemigraphis hirta (Vahl) T. Anders. (Acanthaceae): A New Record for KeralaC.N. Sunil1 and V.V. Naveen Kumar2

Fig 1. Hemigraphis hirta (Vahl) T. Anders. A- Habit; B- Single leaf; C- Single flower; D- Calyx; E- Corolla split open; F- Pistil; G- Capsule, H- Capsule after dehiscence; I- Seed; J- A portion of stem

1&2Dept. of P.G Studies and Research in Botany, S.N.M. College, Maliankara P.O, Ernakulam District, Kerala. Email: 2naveenkumar2389@gmail.com

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 7

twisted in bud, 3-4 × 4-5 mm, orbicular with wavy margins, pubescent without. Stamens 4, didynamous; longer filaments 2-3 mm long, shorter 1-1.5 mm long, sparsely hairy; anthers purple, 1–1.5 mm long. Ovary 1.5–2 × 0.5–0.75 mm, linear-oblong, glandular hairy at the top; style 8-10 mm long, linear, white, glandular hairy at the base; stigma 2-lobed, one lobe linear, ca 2 mm long, the other short. Capsule 7–9 × 2–2.5 mm, linear or linear-oblong, shortly beaked, glandular hairy when young; retinacula straight, ca 1 mm long. Seeds 8–12 per capsule, 1.7–2 mm across, discoid, straw or wheat grain coloured, hygroscopically hairy.

Specimens examined: Kerala, Ernakulam Dt., Nettoor (C.N. Sunil- 5967 Willingdon Island (C.N. Sunil- 5895).

Flowering & Fruiting: Jan–May.

Distribution: Tropical Himalaya and India.

AcknowledgementsThe authors are thankful to University Grants Commission, New Delhi for the financial assistance and to Mr. V.B. Sajeev, N. Paravur for preparing the illustrations.

ReferenceMabberley, D.J. (2008). Mabberley’s Plant- Book: A Portable Dictionary of Plants, their classification and uses. Third Edition. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge. 335 pp.

Fig 3. Herbarium specimen of Hemigraphis hirta

Fig 2. Hemigraphis hirta

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 8

Gmelina arborea Roxb. (Verbinaceae) is a fast growing deciduous tree, occurring naturally throughout greater parts of India. It is commonly planted as a garden and an avenue tree; also grown in villages along agricultural land and on village community lands and wastelands. G. arborea is an unarmed, moderately sized to large deciduous tree with a straight trunk. It is wide spreading with numerous branches forming a large shady crown, attains a height of 30 m or more and a diameter up to 4.5 m. Flowering takes place during February to April when the tree is more or less leafless whereas fruiting between May and June. G. arborea has been traditionally used in India for several medicinal purposes like diuretic, antibacterial, antioxidant and antidiabetic (Nayak et al, 2011).

During field visits to Ajinkyatara Fort, Satara, Maharashtara (17014.337’ N & 0730 59.675’ E height 742 m. msl.) in October 2015 an extensive aggregation of Catacanthus incarnatus (Sub Family - Pentatominae Family Pentatomidae) was observed on G. arborea. The identification and confirmation of this plant bug was done by using standard literature and expertise available (Distant, 1902). C. incarnates, also known as man-faced stink bug or man-faced shield bug is native to Southeast Asia and India. The bugs are named after spotted pattern that resembles a man’s face when one views the dorsal side of the bug oriented head down and disagreeable odour which is produced from its body. Bhat & Srikumar (2013) states that the bugs are found in four different colour morphs namely viz., red, orange, yellow and cream with dark eye spot on their leathery scutellum and forewings, advertising their noxious taste and also perhaps functioning as eyespots to mislead predator. However during present study only two colour morphs namely red and yellow were observed (Fig. 1&2). Huge aggregation was noticed mostly on main trunk of tree (Fig. 3) and the later population was found scattered on different branches. In this aggregation only adult stage of bug was observed and rest life cycle stages were missing. After eight days the colony was shifted elsewhere from that habitat.

According to Kumar & Bajpai (2007) many species of bugs are found in aggregation because of pheromones or congregation of insect for protection, reproduction and feeding or combination of all. Recently mass occurrence of this bug has been reported from different regions of India. Mamlayya & Aland (2012) reported aggregation of approximately 400–500 bugs on a single branch of Delonix regia in Kolhapur, Maharashtra. Bhat & Srikumar (2013)

recorded about 300 bugs on a single cashew tree in Puttur region of Karnataka as a pest of cashew plantation. Waghmare et al., (2015) reported mass occurrence of these bugs on different hosts namely Ixora brachiata, Memecylon umbellatum, Glochidion ellipticum and Olea dioica from Rangana fort, Kolhapur Maharashtra. But in the present study only four trees have shown extensive congregation on main trunk and approximately 200-300 bugs per branch. No any other tree has shown such a type of aggregation on the fort. Same type of aggregation has been noticed on Delonix regia in the same month from another study site away from the earlier described Ajinkyatara Fort site. In this aggregation most of the adults were observed in feeding state and very few mating pairs were noticed. Earlier reports state that every time a different host has been used for feeding by these bugs. This indicates their polyphagous nature.

AcknowledgementsThe authors are thankful to Head, Department of Botany and Principal, Yashvantrao Chavan Institute of Science Satara for providing laboratory facility. Thanks are also due to Mr. Prashant Bhokare and Mr.

Mass occurrence of stink bug Catacanthus incarnatus (Dury) on Gmelina arborea Roxb. in Satara, Maharashtara S.V. Thite1 and B.A. Kore2

1&2Department of Botany, Yashvantrao Chavan Institute of Science, Satara, (M.S). Email: basavaraj.kore@rediffmail.com2 (Corresponding author)

Fig 1. Red C.incarnatus

Fig 2. Yellow C.incarnatus

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 9

Sujit Patil for the technical concerns.

ReferencesBhat, P.S. and K.K. Srikumar (2013). Occurrence of Man-faced Stink Bug, Catacanthus incarnatus Drury on cashew in Puttur region of Karnataka. Current Biotica Insect Environment 19(1): 32–34.Distant, W.L. (1902). The Fauna of British India including Ceylon and Burma- Rhynchota- Volume- I (Heteroptera). Taylor and Francis, London, U.K., 438pp.Kumar, A. and N.K. Bajpai (2007). Semiochemicals: As potential tools in pest management, pp. 181–191. In: Entomology Novel Approach. New India Publishing Agency New Delhi.Mamlayya, A.B. and S.R. Aland (2012). Aggregation behavior of Catacanthus incarnatus (Drury) on Delonix regia in Kolhapur, Maharashtra. Bugs R All 19: 26.Nayak, B.S., P.K. Jena, S.C. Dinda and P. Ellaiah (2011). An overview on silviculture and traditional therapeutic uses of Gmnelina arborea Roxb. J Pharmacy Res; 4(5): 1-2Waghmare, S.H., G.P. Bhawane, Y.J. Koli and S.M. Gaikwad (2015). A case of extensive congregation of Man-faced Stink Bug Catacanthus incarnatus (Drury) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) together with new host records from western Maharashtra, India. Journal of Threatened Taxa 7(8): 7490–7492

Fig 3. Aggregation of Bug on main trunk of tree

Announcement

National Conference on Impact of Climate Change on Biodiversity: Applications of Recent Technologies for Conservation of Threatened Species, September 22-24, 2016

Organized by Department of Zoology, Mizoram University, Aizawl In collaboration with Zoological Society of India, Gaya

Sub themes- Biodiversity distribution, pattern and process, models and conservation strategies, conservation, sustainable use, and livelihood options; biodiversity research-approach and techniques, laws;- Climate change and ecosystem productivity, Climate change modeling and adaptive changes in response to climate change- Geospatial technologies and biodiversity informatics- Indigenous knowledge system and bio piracy

For any further information and for the submission of abstract and full length papers contact:Prof. G.S. Solanki, Organizing Secretary, National Conference ICCB-2016Department of Zoology, Mizoram University, Aizawl-796004, MizoramEmail: gssolanki02@yahoo.co.in, drghanshyam.solanki@gmail.comPh: 09436374596/09458502823

Important Dates:Submission of abstract: 31 July, 2016Submission of full length with CD: 15 August, 2016(Full length papers will be published in the form of edited book with ISBN)Late submission can be accepted up to 30 August, 2016.

Recognition awards: ZSI gives various recognition awards to finally selected candidates among the aspirants. Candidates may send their resume/biodata to the Organizing Secretary up to 30th August, 2016.

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 10

New location record for Northern Tree Shrew from BiharMohd Shahnawaz Khan1, Anjana Pant2 and Sathiaseelan Sudhakar3

AbstractTo build up the baseline data for conservation and management planning of the Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary (BWS), Bihar, India field surveys were conducted during 2014. During the study 23 mammalian species were recorded; of the species, one i.e. Northern Tree Shrew Tupaia belangeri was the new record to the BWS. This contribution adds in the new location (in BWS, Bihar) to the distribution range of Northern Tree Shrew. This new record of species from Bihar indicates the possible extension in the distribution range of species; it contributes to the species database and builds the biodiversity database of the area as well.

IntroductionThis study took place in the Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary (BWS) in 2014, and was designed particularly to form the baseline data for conservation and management planning of the sanctuary, a biodiversity rich but completely unexplored area of Bihar state of India. Sanctuary lies between 25° 55’ and 25° 15’ N and 86° 15’ and 86° 33’ E and extends over an area of 680.94 km2 (Fig 1). Being situated in the lower (Elevation wise) portion of Gangetic plain which is near to North-East bio-geographical region; BWS shares the wildlife species of both the regions which makes the sanctuary a unique ecosystem with wide range of wildlife species. But unfortunately, the ecosystem of the sanctuary is threatened due to several anthropogenic activities like illegal mining, deforestation, poaching etc. The high density of human population around the BWS further intensifies the pressure. In the present scenario, the sanctuary is almost an isolated patch of forest which is highly infected by the left wing extremism and facing a potential threat of habitat degradation.

During the study 23 mammalian species (Table 1) were recorded; of the species, one i.e. Northern Tree Shrew Tupaia belangeri was the new record to the BWS (Bihar). The species was recorded and photographed (Fig 2) at Munger forest range (25°16’01.31” N; 86°30’38.70” E) of BWS on 19 March 2014 at around 10.00 hours. Tree Shrews are small insectivores belonging to order Scandentia and all 19 species are endemic to Southeast Asia. This note presents the first photographic record of the species from Bihar state of India.

Identification and Conservation StatusTree Shrews can be characterised by their long snout, large eyes (laterally placed), large ears with unique pinna, naked moist nose pad, and a bushy tail (Menon 2014). Despite their name ‘Tree Shrew’ they are neither as much arboreal as squirrels nor they look like shrews. Morphologically they are more similar to squirrels than shrews. But they can be easily distinct from squirrels as they do not have whiskers.

Northern Tree Shrew is olive-brown or greyish brown coat and a buff or orange venter. The long bushy tail is equal to its body length. The lower earlobe is slightly smaller with more hair inside the ear than Madras Tree Shrew Anathana ellioti (Menon 2014). The species is endemic to Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot (Majumder and Agarwala 2015) and found in deciduous and evergreen primary forest and secondary forest, commonly in karst and associated natural scrub vegetation, from sea level up to upper montane areas (Molur et al. 2005). The species is widely distributed in the North-eastern India and reported from Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura states of India (Das et al. 1995; Majumder and Agarwala 2015).

The Northern Tree Shrew is categorised as Least Concern in IUCN Red List (Han et al. 2008) and listed in Appendix II of CITES (UNEP-WCMC 2001). It is also listed in the Schedule II of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 amended upto 2008. However, the species is threatened due to habitat

1&2 WWF India, 172 B, Lodi Estate, New Delhi.3Environment and Forest Department, Bihar.Email: 1shahnawaz.khan.aligarh@gmail.com

(Corresponding author)

Fig 1. Location of Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary in Bihar, India

Fig 2. Northern Tree Shrew Tupaia belangeri in its habitat at Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 11

loss resulting from shifting agriculture, small-scale and selective logging, clearing of forest, establishment of human settlements and forest fires (Molur et al. 2005).

The effective conservation and management of wildlife area or species depends on better understanding of all the components of biodiversity. Hence, makes the timely reporting of expansion or shrinkage of species’ range important for conservation management of the species (Silambarasan et al. 2015). This contribution adds in the new location (in BWS, Bihar) to the distribution range of Northern Tree Shrew. This new record of species from Bihar indicates the possible extension in the distribution range of species; it contributes to the species database and builds the biodiversity data base of the area as well.

Small mammals have significant influences on vegetation and soils, exert predatory pressure on insects and other mammals, and also provide food for other predators (Carolyn 1987). They fill important and perhaps crucial roles in ecosystem function. They are interconnected in complex ways with other biotic and abiotic components of the ecosystem. Hence, it is suggested to focus management efforts on these relationships to a

greater extent in the sanctuary. Further, survey and monitoring are recommended (Molur et al. 2005) to estimate the range expansion of the species.

AcknowledgmentsWe express our gratitude to DFID – World Bank Trust Fund for financial support to this study. We take this opportunity to express a deep sense of gratitude for the constant support received from Mr. D.K. Singh, Dr. D.K. Shukla, Mr. B.A. Khan and Mr. Arvind Singh (Environment and Forests Department, Government of Bihar). Author are obliged to Mr. Ravi Singh and Dr. Sejal Worah, Dr. Diwakar Sharma and Dr. G. Areendran (WWF India) for their constant encouragement and support. The help rendered by other colleagues at WWF India is highly appreciated. We are grateful to Ms. Zarreen Syed (WII, Dehradun) and Ms. Devanshi Kasana (WWF India) for their valuable comments on the manuscript. We are thankful to Dr. Sanjay Molur (ZOO) for confirming the identification of the species.

ReferencesCarolyn, H.S. (1987). Small Mammals: Pests or Vital Components of the Ecosystem. Great Plains Wildlife Damage Control Workshop Proceedings. Paper 97. Das, P.K., R.K. Ghosh, T.K. Chakraborty, T.P. Bhattacharyya & M.K. Ghosh (1995). Mammalia. State Fauna Series: Fauna of Meghalaya. Part I. Zoological Survey of India 4: 23–128.Majumder, J. and B.K. Agarwala (2015). Notes on the distribution, habitat, and behavior of Northern Tree Shrew Tupaia belangeri (Mammalia: Scandentia: Tupaiidae) in Tripura, India. Journal of Threatened Taxa 7(1): 6841–6842. doi: 10.11609/JoTT. o3956.6841-2Menon, V. (2014). Indian Mammals: A Field Guide. Hachette India. pp 528.Molur, S., C. Srinivasulu, B. Srinivasulu, S. Walker, P.O. Nameer & L. Ravikumar (2005). Status of South Asian Non-volant Small Mammals; Conservation assessment and management plan (CAMP) workshop report. Zoo Outreach Organisation. CBSG-South Asia, Coimbatore, India. pp 618.Han, K.H., J.W. Duckworth & S. Molur (2008). Tupaia belangeri. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2008:e.T41492A10468101. http://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2008.RLTS.T41492A10468101.en. Downloaded on 17 January 2016.Silambarasan, K., A. Sundaramanickam, K. Sujatha and P. Senthilkumaar (2015). First record of buckler crab Cryptopodia angulata (Decapoda: Brachyura: Parthenopidae) from Chennai coast (Bay of Bengal), India. Journal of Asia-Pacific Biodiversity 8: 102-104.UNEP-WCMC (2001). Checklist of mammals listed in the CITES Appendices and in the Annexes of the Council of the European Union Regulation (EC) No. 338/97. 5th Edn. JNCC Reports. No. 293.Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (As amended upto 2006) (2008). TRAFFIC India, WWF India, New Delhi. Natraj Publishers, Dehradun.WWF India (2013). http://www.wwfindia.org/news_facts/?9660/Uncovering-Valmikis-treasures-Four-more-species-added-to-the-Tiger-Reserve-baseline Accessed on 10 April 2015.

S.no.

Common name Scientific name IUCN Status

1 Common Leopard Panthera pardus NT2 Jungle Cat Felis chaus LC3 Small Indian Civet Viverricula indica LC4 Common Mongoose Herpestes edwardsii LC5 Small Indian

MongooseHerpestes javanicus LC

6 Striped Hyena Hyaena hyaena NT7 Indian Wolf Canis lupus pallipes LC8 Golden Jackal Canis aureus LC9 Indian Fox Vulpes bengalensis LC10 Sloth Bear Melursus ursinus VU11 Five-striped Palm

SquirrelFunambulus pennantii LC

12 Indian Porcupine Hystrix indica LC13 Northern Tree

Shrew Tupaia belangeri LC

14 Indian Hare Lepus nigricollis LC15 Four-horned

AntelopeTetracerus quadricornis

VU

16 Blue Bull Boselaphus tragocamelus

LC

17 Sambhar Rusa unicolor VU18 Barking Deer Muntiacus muntjak LC19 Wild Bore Sus scrofa LC20 Rhesus Macaque Macaca mulatta LC21 Common Langur Semnopithecus

entellusLC

22 Indian Field Mouse Mus booduga LC23 Ganga River

DolphinPlatanista gangetica EN

Table 1. List of mammals recorded during the survey at Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary (Bihar) India.

EN= Endangered; LC= Least Concern; NT= Near Threatened; VU= Vulnerable.

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 12

The UNESCO seeks to encourage the identification, protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity. For the purpose, an international treaty called the Convention concerning the Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage (WHC) was adopted in the year 1972. India ratified the Convention in November 1977. India already has 32 properties inscribed to the list of world heritage till 2014, which includes 25 cultural heritage sites and 7 natural heritage sites.

The UNESCO Natural Heritage Sites inscribed in India are a) Kaziranga National Park – Assam; b) Keoladeo National Park – Rajasthan; c) Manas Wildlife Sanctuary – Assam; 4) Sundarbans National Park – West Bengal; 5) Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks – Uttarakhand; 6) Western Ghats Serial Sites with details as per Annexure – I and; 7 Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area – Himachal Pradesh.

Most of these sites are either Protected Areas notified under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 or are forests notified under the Indian Forest Act, 1927 or relevant State Forests Acts. Notifying them as such grants them various suitable levels of legal protection. The protection and management of forests and wildlife is the responsibility of the concerned State governments. The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and the relevant Forest Acts grant legal mandate to the authorities in States/Union Territories for their protection. The State governments manage the Protected Areas and the forests including World Heritage Sites in accordance with site specific management plans or working plans, as applicable, depending upon whether they are notified under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 or the Forest Acts.

The Central Government provides assistance to the States/Union Territory Governments under Centrally Sponsored Schemes, viz. “Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats”, “Project Elephant” “Project Tiger” and “Intensification of Forest Management” for taking up activities related to conservation and protection of the wildlife therein and the forests.

The World Heritage Committee, the main body in charge of the implementation of the Convention, has developed precise criteria for the inscription of properties on the list of World Heritage Sites. These are all included in a document entitled "Operational Guidelines for the Implementation of the World Heritage Convention". The Parties/States have to submit the proposals of tentative list and dossiers as per the Operational Guidelines. The proposals are evaluated by the technical advisors (IUCN in case of

natural heritage) to World Heritage Committee and the evaluated report is presented in the Committee meeting where after due deliberations, a decision is taken by consensus or majority opinion on inscription.

As per the world heritage website, the UNESCO Natural Heritage Sites under tentative list are a) Bhitarkanika Conservation Area – Odisha; b) Chilika Lake – Odisha; c) Desert National Park – Rajasthan; d) Kangchendzonga National Park – Sikkim; e) Namdapha National Park – Arunachal Pradesh; f) Narcondam Island – Andaman and Nicobar Islands; g) Neora Valley National Park – West Bengal and h) Wild Ass Sanctuary, Little Rann of Kutch – Gujarat

The UNESCO has already established eight Category 2 Centers related to World Heritage viz. a) Nordic World Heritage Foundation (NWHF, Norway) – 2003; b) African World Heritage Fund (AWHF, South Africa) – 2007; c) World Heritage Institute for Training and Research in Asia and the Pacific (WHITR-AP, China) – 2007; d) Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage (ARC-WH, Bahrain) – 2009; e) Regional World Heritage Institute in Zacatecas (Mexico) – 2009; f) Regional Heritage Management Training Centre “Lucio Costa” (Brazil) – 2009; g) International Centre for Rock Art and the World Heritage Convention (Spain) – 2011; and h) International Research Centre on the Economics of Culture and World Heritage Studies (Italy) – 2011.

The Director General of Forest and Special Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change had signed the agreement on 2nd September 2015 in the presence of Hon’ble Minister (Independent Charge) for Environment, Forest and Climate Change with The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for establishment of “A Centre for World Natural Heritage Management and Training for the Asia and Pacific Region” as a Category 2 Centre at the Wildlife Institute Of India, Dehradun under the auspices of UNESCO.

The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) located in Dehradun is actively engaged in building capacity of a wide range of professionals in all aspects of nature especially wildlife and protected area management including natural world heritage conservation and management. The Institute has a state-of-art infrastructure and competent multidisciplinary faculty and its wide range of capacity building programmes are actively being used both by in–country

Status of Management and Conservation of UNESCO World Natural Heritage sites in IndiaTarun Kathula*

1Project Manager, GoI UNDP Global Environment Facility Coastal and Marine Programme (IGCMP) Wildlife Divison, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, New Delhi. Email: tarun.kathula@undp.org

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 13

professionals and also those from the Asian region. Based on these strengths, it was felt that the Institute could contribute to capacity building of the State parties of Asia Pacific region in the World Heritage.

Currently out of 193 World Heritage Sites in Natural Heritage Category, only 57 sites are in the Asia-Pacific region. The established C2C at Dehradun, India will help to achieve a more

balanced representation of natural heritage properties from Asia and Pacific on the World Heritage list. The number of heritage sites would increase in near future because the Government of India would also recognise cultural heritage sites, natural heritage sites, mixed cultural and natural heritage sites and cultural landscapes of outstanding national values. Thus, India is uniquely placed to disseminate new developments in the Asia Pacific

region. While the primary focus of the established C2C at WII Dehradun will be the management and monitoring of heritage sites in the Asia Pacific Region, it is envisaged that it will have a catalytic effect on improving the management of the heritage sites of local significance that are being conserved by ASI and other agencies.

The scope of the established C2C will, therefore, be global, regional, and inter-regional to bring greater synergies to the conservation and management of WHS in particular but also other national and local heritage sites in general. The established C2C would focus on an integrated approach to capacity building of the region taking guidance from the 5 C’s (credibility, conservation, communication, community and capacity building), the established strategic directions of the UNESCO World Heritage Convention.

In future, the WII will also raise funds for the C2C through activities taken up in accordance with the mandate as a resource centre for services to the States in the Asia Pacific region for training, capacity building and consultancies in the field of Natural Heritage.

Referenceswww.moef.nic.inwww.wii.gov.inhttp://whc.unesco.org/

S. No Name of the States

Name of the serial site of Western Ghats

1 Tamil Nadu Kalakad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve2

Tamil NaduSrivilliputtur Wildlife Sanctuary

3

Tamil Nadu

Tirunelveli (North) Forest Division (part)4

Tamil Nadu

Grass Hills National Park5

Tamil Nadu

Karian Shola National Park6

Tamil Nadu

Mukurti National Park7 Kerala Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary8

KeralaNeyyar Wildlife Sanctuary

9

Kerala

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary10

Kerala

Kulathupuzha Range11

Kerala

Palode Range12

Kerala

Periyar Tiger Reserve13

Kerala

Ranni Forest Division14

Kerala

Konni Forest Division15

Kerala

Achankovil Forest Division16

Kerala

Eravikulam National Park (and proposed extension)

17

Kerala

Karian Shola (part of Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary)

18

Kerala

Mankulam Range19

Kerala

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary20

Kerala

Mannavan Shola21

Kerala

Silent Valley National Park22

Kerala

New Amarambalam Reserved Forest23

Kerala

Kalikavu Range24

Kerala

Attapadi Reserved Forest25

Kerala

Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary26 Karnataka Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary27

KarnatakaBrahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

28

Karnataka

Talacauvery Wildlife Sanctuary29

Karnataka

Padinalknad Reserved Forest30

Karnataka

Kerti Reserved Forest31

Karnataka

Kudremukh National Park32

Karnataka

Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary33

Karnataka

Someshwara Reserved Forest34

Karnataka

Agumbe Reserved Forest35

Karnataka

Balahalli Reserved Forest36 Maharashtra Kas Plateau37

MaharashtraKoyna Wildlife Sanctuary

38

Maharashtra

Chandoli National Park39

Maharashtra

Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary

Annexure I: India’s Western Ghats serial sites on World Heritage sites list

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 14

Horseshoe crabs are now represented by four species in the world (Sekiguchi and Nakamura, 1979) and out of them three are regarded as Asian species. Two species of horseshoe crabs namely Tachypleus gigas and Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda have been reported to be distributed along the northeast coast of Odisha state, India (Chatterji et. al., 1992). The population of these species is in declining trend though the breeding beaches are still remaining free from any kind of pollution. There is no known commercial exploitation of these species in Odisha yet (Mishra, 2009).

ObservationKhandia estuary is located at 21°19'1.65"N and 86°53'32.99"E in Balasore district of Odisha state and it is about 15 km away from known place named Chandipur. As compared to other estuary in the Balasore district, in Khandia estuary the frequencies of Horseshoe crab breeding are high (Pati et al., 2015). During the regular field survey for assessment of breeding ground for horseshoe crabs on 4 Jan, 2016, group of domestic pigs were spotted feeding on stranded horseshoe crabs (Fig 1.). The pigs (Sus domesticus) were feeding on the ventral body parts of horseshoe crab (Fig 2.). The horseshoe crabs, while come to the shore to lay eggs, were picked up by the pigs (Sus domesticus), and found to feed the viscera horseshoe crab by tearing out gills and legs.

DiscussionNot much is known about the predation of Indian horseshoe crabs in the natural ecosystem. Eggs of American horseshoe crabs have been reported to be consumed by fishes (e.g. Eels, Catfishes) and shorebirds at Delaware Bay, USA (Mizrahi and Peters, 2009). There is very little quantitative information about the importance of fishes and benthic predators to horseshoe crab eggs and larvae. Mortality of adult horseshoe crabs, caused by natural factors and fisheries, does not have the same importance to the population growth rate as does the survival of juveniles (Grady and Valiela 2006). The large size and dense hard exoskeleton of adult horseshoe crabs certainly protects them against most of the predators, and they are not consumed with any regularity by most known predators (Botton and Shuster, 2003). However, a number of interesting examples of adult mortality are known which may be of importance to particular populations of horseshoe crabs. Reid and Bonde (1990) and Ehlinger (2003) have observed that the large American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) eating adult Horseshoe crab on multiple occasions in the Indian River

Lagoon, USA. Adult horseshoe crabs were a significant component of the stomach contents of loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) in lower Chesapeake Bay,USA (Keinath, 2003). Barleycorn and Tucker (2005) observed a Kemp’s Ridley turtle (Lepidochelys kempii) eating a horseshoe crab in Charlotte Harbor (Gulf of Mexico), Florida, USA. There were consumption records of adult horseshoe crabs by sharks (Rudloe 1981) and loggerhead turtles (Botton & Shuster, 2003), while individuals of American Horseshoe crab stranded on beaches during breeding season were substantially attacked by shorebirds, Herring gulls (Larus argentatus) and great black-backed gulls (Larus marinus) in Delaware Bay (Botton and Loveland 1993). Predation on the three Indo-Pacific species was not much documented, except that predation of T. gigas by crows (Corvus spelendens) was observed in India (Debnath and Choudhury, 1988) and by Long-tailed Macaque (Macaca fascicularis) was observed in Tanjung Piai National Park, Johor, Peninsular Malaysia (Ang, 2016). The domestic pig (Sus scrofa domesticus or Sus domesticus), often

Horseshoe Crab (Tachypleus gigas) as Prey of Domestic Pig (Sus domesticus) in Khandia estuary, Balasore, Odisha, IndiaSiddhartha Pati1 and Bisnu Prasad Dash2

1&2Horseshoe Crab Research Unit, Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Fakir Mohan University, Balasore. Email:1patisiddhartha@gmail.com, 2bisnubsbtfmu@gmail.com

Fig 1. Pigs feeding on a Horseshoe crab. Photo: S. Pati

Fig 2. Pigs (Sus domesticus) tearing out gills and legs of Horseshoe crabs. Photo: S. Pati

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 15

called swine, hog, or pig and they are known as omnivores.

ConclusionGlobally there has been no conclusive record of pig feeding on horseshoe crab. Here, we report on the first clear predation of horseshoe crabs by domestic pigs. This may be one of the causes out of several for population declination of this species of Indian Horseshoe crab. The breeding grounds of Horseshoe crabs in Odisha are constantly being invaded by human, their domestic animal like pigs, cows, Dogs. So there is every chance of building of a prey-predator relationship due to the scarcity of food availability. Pigs are omnivorous in nature and feeds on varieties of foods and the relationships might have developed in recent times. To conserve this species in an area like Balasore coast; continuous efforts and long term awareness programmes are needed. The community people those are residing near the Horseshoe crab breeding sites has to be advised not to send their domestic pigs so that the horseshoe crab visiting for breeding purpose can be protected.

AcknowledgementsThe authors are grateful to the Vice-chancellor, Fakir Mohan University, Balasore for support and encouragement and thankful to WWF-India for financial support. References Ang, A. (2016). Long-tailed Macaque feeding on horseshoe crab Tachypleus gigas at Tanjung Piai, Johor, Peninsular Malaysia. South-East Asia Vertebrate Record, 51-52.

Barleycorn, A.A., and A.D. Tucker (2005). Lepidochelys kempii (Kemp’s Ridley seaturtle) diet. Herpetol Rev 36: 8–9.

Botton, M.L. and C.N. Shuster Jr (2003). Horseshoe crabs in a food web: who eats whom? In: Shuster, C.N. Jr, Barlow, R.B., Brockmann, H.J. (eds) The American Horseshoe Crab. Harvard Press, Cambridge, pp 133–153.

Botton, M.L. and R.E. Loveland (1993). Predation by herring gulls and great black-backed gulls on horseshoe crabs. Wilson Bull, 105:518–521.

Chatterji, A., R. Vijayakumar and A.H. Parulekar (1992). Spawning migration of the horseshoe crab, Tachypleus gigas (Müller), in relation to lunar cycle. Asian Fish Sci, 5: 123–128.

Debnath, R. and A. Choudhury (1988). Predation of Indian horseshoe crab Tachypleus gigas by Corvus splendens. Trop Ecol, 29:86–89.

Ehlinger, G.S., R.A. Tankersley and M.A. Bush (2003). Spatial and temporal patterns of spawning and larval hatching by the horseshoe crab, Limulus polyphemus, in a microtidal coastal lagoon. Estuaries, 26: 631–640.

Grady, S.P. and I. Valiela (2006). Stage-structured matrix modeling and suggestions for management of Atlantic horseshoe crab, Limulus polyphemus, populations on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Est Coasts, 29:685–698.

Keinath, J.A. (2003). Predation of horseshoe crabs by loggerhead sea turtles. In: Shuster CN Jr, Barlow RB, Brockmann HJ (eds), The American Horseshoe Crab. Harvard Press, Cambridge, pp 152–153.

Mizrahi, D.S. and K.A. Peters (2009). Relationships between sandpipers and horseshoe crab in Delaware Bay: A synthesis. In: Tanacredi JT, Botton ML, Smith DR (eds) Biology and Conservation of Horseshoe Crabs. Springer, New York, pp 65–87.

Mishra, J.K. (2009). Horseshoe crabs, their eco-biological status along the northeast coast of India and the necessity for ecological conservation. In Biology and conservation of horseshoe crabs, pp. 89-96.

Pati, S., G.C. Biswal and B.P. Dash (2015). Availability of Tachypleus gigas (Müller) along the river estuaries of Balasore district, Odisha, India. International Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Studies, 2: 334-336.

Reid, J.P. and R.K. Bonde (1990). Alligator mississippiensis (American alligator) diet. Herpetol Rev, 21:59.

Rudloe, A. (1981). Aspects of the biology of juvenile horseshoe crabs, Limulus polyphemus. Bulletin of Marine Science, 31: 125-133.

Sekiguchi, K. and K. Nakamura (1979). Ecology of the extant horseshoe crabs. In: Cohen E (ed) Biomedical Applications of the Horseshoe Crab (Limulidae), Alan R Liss, New York, pp 37–45.

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 16

As part of routine field visit, studying the ‘ecoforest’ of Assam University, Silchar Campus (24º41′ N & 92º45′ E), Cachar district, Assam (Fig. 1) on 26 February 2011 at around 1645 hrs we saw a monkey climbing down from a Cham tree Artocarpus chama, which was noticed from about a distance of 50 m (Fig 1). There was dense vegetation beneath the Cham tree consisting mainly of Mimosa himalayana, clumps of Dolu bamboo Schizostachyum dulooa and ‘Chatapata’ Liquila peltata. On observing from a closer distance, four more monkeys were sighted. All were foraging in a loosely formed group; the closest distance between two individuals was ca. 5 m. It was identified as Northern Pig-tailed Macaque Macaca leonina. The characteristic V-shaped dark patch on the top of the head was the main criterion for the identification (Srivastava 1999) (Fig. 2a). Two adult individuals of the group were eating the flower of ‘Chatapata’ plant (Fig 2b), while one adult was climbing the Cham tree with one young individual. An adult female was eating on the tender shoot of Dolu bamboo (Fig 2c). Except for a female, the sex of the other members of the group could not be ascertained.

Later we found four adult individuals of Northern Pig-tailed Macaque, possibly of the same troop on 13 March 2011 at 0530 hrs; two adults together at location 2a and another two adults were at location 2b about 100 m apart (Fig. 1). They were foraging on ‘Climbing bamboo’ Melocalamus compactiflorus. On 27 March 2011 at 0700 hrs, we again saw four Northern Pig-tailed Macaques at location 3; two adults were foraging on tender leaves of Artocarpus chama and two were

grooming each other on Dolu bamboo below the tree. However, we could not see any juvenile. On 9 April 2011 at 0540 hrs we encountered the same troop again with four adults and one juvenile (location 4). Three individuals were feeding on ripe fruits of Artocarpus chama and another two individuals were feeding on tender leaves of Melocalamus compactiflorus.

The ‘ecoforest’ is situated within the University Campus at its south-east boundary (24°34′ & 24°40′ N and 92°28′ & 92°45′ E). It is spread over an area of 15 acres and has continuation with Dargakona (Silcoorie Tea Estate) and Barjalenga Tea Estate (Dutta et al. 2008). The ecoforest is represented by Tropical Semi

Evergreen type of forest (Dutta et al. 2008). The vegetation in the area is dominated by Artocarpus chama and Tetrameles nudiflora in the top layer, Ficus spp. and Artocarpus lakoocha in the middle layer, and the lower layer is dominated by Shizostachyum dulooa, saplings of Goniothalamus sp., Cyclostemon sp., Mimosa himalayana etc. The undergrowth is dominated by Desmodium trifolium, saplings of Calamus guruba, Daemonorops sp., Homalomena aromatica and

Sightings of Northern Pig-tailed Macaque (Macaca leonina) Blyth (1863) in Assam University Campus, Silchar, AssamJayanta Kumar Roy1, Manabendra Ray Choudhury2, Biswajit Chakdar3, Panna Deb4 and Hilloljyoti Singha5

1-5Department of Ecology & Environmental Science, Assam University, Silchar, Assam4&5Centre for Biodiversity & Natural Resources Conservation, Assam University, Silchar, AssamEmail: 5hilloljyoti.singha@gmail.com (Corresponding author)

Fig 1. Sighting locations showing Eco-forest of Assam University, Silchar campus. Source: image@2012 GeoEye, Google Earth.

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 17

seedlings of Artocarpus chama. The campus area has numerous low hills bisected by narrow ravines, with small streams and gorges. This area is like an isolated island which once had a continuous forest. With increase of human population and developmental activity, only the remnants of forest stand now.

The Northern Pig-tailed Macaque has also been known as Macaca nemestrina (Choudhury1989, 2001, 2002); however Groves (Groves 2001) considered it as separate species Macaca leonina on the basis of genetic information (Evans et al. 1999; Morales & Melnick 1998, Tosi et al. 2000) and sexual swelling distinctions (Gippoliti 2001). It is listed as Vulnerable in IUCN Red List (Boonratana 2008), and is also listed under Schedule II of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

In India, the Northern Pig-tailed Macaque is confined to the forests of Northeastern India and that too only to the south of the Brahmaputra River (Srivastava 1999, Choudhury 1989). During a survey throughout northeastern India between 1986 and 1999, it

was reported from Innerline Reserved Forest (RF) of Cachar district (24°30' N, 92°50' E) (Choudhury, 2001). Dilip Chetry (pers. commun.) also reported it from Innerline RF during 1994-2003. The group we have witnessed might be distributed in the AUS campus because of its contiguity once with the Innerline RF.

Like other macaques, M. leonina lives in large groups with normally 15-40 individuals and an average 23 individuals (Caldecott 1983, Robertson 1986). In hill dipterocarp forest in Sumatra, M. nemestrina had an average group size of 10.5 individuals (range = 1-20 individuals) (Yanuar et al. 2009). In comparison to the above data, the observed group size of M. leonina in the AUS campus was much smaller. Srivastava (2006) recorded that the primate species occurring in very low densities are threatened due to habitat loss and hunting of primate species in Northeast India. The rapid expansion of the tea gardens was the major threat to the existence of the primate species and other animals in the ecoforest of Assam University, Silchar Campus (Mazumdar et al.

2011). The ecoforest forms a wilderness area within the university campus and provide refuge to all the wildlife. However, the communities living in the vicinity of the university still look upon the area to meet their requirements. This has rendered a huge pressure on the ecoforest and resulted in its degradation. There is a dire need to conserve the ecoforest by enforcing stricter management. Moreover, mass scale awareness on wildlife conservation needs to be promoted with the local communities living in the vicinity as conservation aims cannot be achieved by alienating the communities. There is an urgent requirement that isolated pockets of vegetation like the ecoforest be managed properly and protected as they are the last line of hope for the wildlife and specifically for the threatened Northern Pig-tailed Macaque and other primates inhibiting the area as other adjoining areas are severely disturbed.

AcknowledgementsAuthors are grateful to then Head Prof. D.C. Ray and present Head Prof. J. Rout, Department of Ecology & Environmental Science, Assam University, Silchar for encouragement and support. Authors also thank Dr. Dilip Chetry, Gibbon Conservation Centre, Assam, for his valuable comments and Anukul Nath for initial help.

ReferencesBoonratana, R., J. Das, L. Yongcheng, S. Htun and R.J. Timmins (2008). Macaca leonina In: IUCN 2011. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2011.2. <www.iucnredlist.org>. Downloaded on 20 May 2012.Caldecott, J.O. (1983). An ecology study of the pig-tailed macaques in peninsular Malaysia. Ph.D. Thesis, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.Choudhury, A.U. (1989). Primates of Assam: their distribution, habitat and status. Ph.D. Thesis, Gauhati University, Guwahati.

Fig 2. Northern Pig-tailed Macaque Macaca leonina (a) adult sitting on Cham tree Artocarpus chama, (b) eating the flower of Licula peltata, and (c) adult female sitting on Dolu Bamboo Schizostachyum dulooa in ecoforest, Assam University, Silchar campus, 2011.

a b

c

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Choudhury, A.U. (2001). Primates in Northeast India: An Overview of their Distribution and Conservation Status. Envis Bulletin: Wildlife and Protected Areas 1: 92–101.Choudhury, A.U (2002). Tail Carriage in Pig-tailed macaques (Macaca nemestriana). Tigerpaper 29:1.Dutta, B.K., A. Gupta, A.K. Das and A. De (2008). Ecology and biodiversity of Assam University Campus. Department of Ecology & Environmental Science, Assam University, Silchar, pp. 33.Evans, B.J., J.C. Morales, J. Supriatna and D.J. Melnick (1999). Origins of the Sulawesi macaques as suggested by mitochondrial DNA phylogeny. Biological Journal of the Linnean Society 66: 539– 560.Gippoliti, S. (2001). Notes on the taxonomy of Macaca nemestrina leonina Blyth, 1863 (Primates: Cercopithecidae). Hystrix - the Italian Journal of Mammalogy 8: 51–54.Groves, C.P. (2001). Primate Taxonomy. Smithsonian Institution Press, Washington, DC.Machairas, I., A.C. Ciani and S. Sgardelis (2003). Interpopulation differences in activity patterns of Macaca sylvanus in the Moroccan Middle Atlas. Human Evolution 18: 185-202.Mazumdar, K., R. Soud, and A. Gupta (2011). Mammalian Diversity of Degraded Forest Habitats around Assam University Campus, Cachar, Assam, India, with Notes on Conservation Status. Our Nature 9: 119-127.Mehlman, P.T. (1989). Comparative Density, Demography, and Ranging Behavior of Barbary Macaques (Macaca sylvanus) in Marginal and Prime Conifer Habitats. International Journal of Primatology 10: 269-292.

Menard, N. and D. Vallet (1997). Behavioural Responses of Barbary macaques (Macaca sylvanus) to Variations in Environmental Conditions in Algeria. American Journal of Primatology 43: 285- 304.Morales, J.C., and D.J. Melnick (1998). Phylogenetic relationships of the macaques (Cercopithecidae: Macaca), as revealed by high resolution restriction site mapping of mitochondrial ribosomal genes. Journal of Human Evolution 34: 1–23.Robertson, J.Y.M. (1986). On the evolution of pig-tailed macaque societies. Ph.D. Thesis, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.Srivastava, A. (1999). Primates of northeast India. Mega diversity Press, Bikaner, India.Srivastava, A. (2006). Conservation of Threatened Primates of Northeast India. Primate Conservation 20: 107–113.Tosi, A.J., J.C. Morales and D.J. Melnick (2000). Comparison of Y-chromosome and mtDNA phylogenies leads to unique inferences of macaque evolutionary history. Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution 17: 133–144.Wrangham, R.W. (1980). An Ecological model of female-bonded Primate group. Behaviour 75: 261- 300.Yanuar, A., D.J. Chivers, J. Sugardjito, D.J. Martyr and J.T. Holden (2009). The Population Distribution of Pig-tailed macaque (Macaca nemestrina) and Long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) in west central Sumatra, Indonesia. Asian Primates Journal 1(2).

Announcement

Advanced School on Earth System Modelling & Workshop on Climate Change and Regional Impacts over South Asia, July 18-29, 2016, IITM, Pune

The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) and the Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP, Trieste, Italy) are jointly organizing an Advanced School on Earth System Modelling (ESM) during 18-27 July, followed by a Workshop on Climate Change & Regional Impacts over South Asia during 28-29 July, at the IITM, Pune, India.

ParticipationThe ESM School and the following Workshop will benefit Ph.D. students, Post-docs and Scientists from Universities and Research Institutions, particularly from the South Asian region and the Indian Ocean rim countries. The school will cover all topics of Earth System Modelling, from the ocean and atmosphere systems to land and ocean biogeochemistry. At the end of the school, we expect student teams to have completed a model run and make a public presentation of key results of the simulation.

A limited number of grants are available to support the travel and living expenses of selected participants. The School will be conducted in English. Registration is free-of-charge for all attendees.

The "On-line Application" form can be accessed on the ICTP activity website at:https://e -applications.ictp.it/applicant/login/2837 inclusive of a step by step instruction guide.

For more information contact:Lisa Iannitti, Secretary, c/o the Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics Strada Costiera 11, 34151 Trieste, Italyphone: +39-040-2240227, Email: smr2837@ictp.it, cc. iannitti@ictp.it ICTP Organizer: R. Farneti: Email: rfarneti@ictp.it

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 19

White-breasted kingfisher or White-throated kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis (Linnaeus, 1758)) is a widespread resident breeding bird of India including Gujarat (Rasmussen and Anderton 2012, Parasharya et al. 2004). The bird is also resident to Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Egypt and Iraq (Ali and Ripley, 2001). Both, systematic studies and opportunistic observations on the diet of the species have been reported frequently (Mukherjee 1975; Yahya and Yasmin 1991; Sen 1994; Oommen and Andrews 1998; Asokanet al. 2009). Diet of the White-throated kingfisher is largely composed of arthropods (Naher and Sarker 2014), and to some extent annelids (Yahya and Yasmin 1991), vertebrates such as fishes, amphibians, reptiles (Naher and Sarker 2014) birds (Theba 2010; Roberts and Priddy 1965; Sen 1944) and mammals (Tehsin 1989; Ali and Ripley 2001). The diet composition of the species shows the lower frequency (numerical value) of reptiles 1.1% (Naher and Sarker 2014) to 2.81% (Asokan et al. 2009).

On 10th November 2015, we were observing birds at Kumbharwada Sewage marsh on the outskirts of Bhavnagar city, Gujarat (21°46'52.83"N;72° 5'33.11"E). We noticed a White-throated kingfisher on the electric line with a dead snake hanging in its bill (Fig 1). On the basis of photographs the snake was identified as Striped Keelback (Xenochrophisvittatus (Linnaeus 1758).

When we saw the kingfisher, the snake was already dead as it did not show any movement during the observation. The bird took three minutes and twenty seconds (200 seconds) to engulf it. Prey handling time depends on the size and biomass of the prey (Holling1959). Moreover, there is a risk of competitors likely to snatch away its prey known as kleptoparasitism (Kushlan 1978). However, we did not observe any competitor disturbing the kingfisher as the phenomena was recorded at about 11.45 Hrs. Majority of the birds have bimodal feeding habits (morning and evening hours), hence likely to be absent in the surrounding.

The approximate length of the snake was 30-35 cm (calculation based on comparing length of snake and known size of the bird). However the size of the bird is average 25-30 cm (Rasmussen and Anderton 2012, Ali and Ripley 2001), which is lesser than the captured prey. Most of the published records show lesser frequency of reptiles in the diet of White-throated kingfisher (Naher and Sarker 2014; Asokan et al. 2009). Amongst the reptiles, mostly lizards (Calotes sp. and Hemidectylis sp.) are reported (Ali and Ripley 2001; Asokan et al. 2009; Naher and

Sarker 2014). The only record of a snake is of the Common Wolf snake with approximate size of 30 cm (Soud et al. 2010). Hence, this may be a record length of the prey consumed by this species and the record of Striped Keelback snake in the diet of this species is a noteworthy record.

AcknowledgementWe thank Dr. Raju Vyas for his help to identify the reptile.

ReferencesAli, S. and S.D. Ripley (2001). Handbook of the birds of India and Pakistan together with those of Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka. Vol 4. 2nded. Oxford University Press, Delhi.Asokan, S., A.M.S. Ali and R. Manikannan (2009). Diet of three insectivorous birds in Nagapattinam District, Tamil Nadu, India – a preliminary study. Journal of Threatened Taxa 1(6): 27-33.Holling, C.S. (1959). Some characteristics of simple types of predation and parasitism. Canadian Entomology 91:385–398.Kushlan, J. (1978). Nonrigorous foraging by robbing egrets. Ecology 60:649-653. Mukherjee, A.K. (1975). Food-habits of water-birds of the Sundarban, 24 Paraganas District, West Bengal. India-V. Journal of Bombay Natural History Society 72: 85–109.Murthy, T.S.N. and K.V.R. Rao (1988). Observations on some snake eating birds of the Chilka Lagoon, Orissa. Journal of Bombay Natural History Society 85(3): 620.

Striped Keelback in the diet of White-throated kingfisher Dishant Parasharya1*, Janki Teli2 and B.M. Parasharya3

1GEER Foundation, Gandhinagar, Gujarat2Centre for Environment Education, Ahmedabad, Gujarat.3Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat. Email: 1dparasharya@gmail.com (Corresponding author)

Fig 1. White-throated kingfisher with the kill

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Naher, H. and N.J. Sarker (2014). Food and feeding habits of White-throated kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis) in Bangladesh. Bangladesh Journal of Zoology 42(2): 237-249.Oomen, M. and M.I. Andrews (1998). Food and feeding habits of the White-breasted kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis. pp. 132–136. In: Dhindsa M.S., Shyamsunder P. & Parasharya B.M. (Eds.), Birds in Agricultural Ecosystem, Society for Applied Ornithology (India), Hyderabad.Parasharya, B.M., C.K. Borad and D.N. Rank (2004). A Checklist of the Birds of Gujarat. Bird Conservation Society, Gujarat. Anand.Rasmussen, P.C. and J.C. Anderton (2012). Birds of South Asia: the Ripley Guide. 2nd ed. Washington, D.C. and Barcelona: Smithsonian Institution and Lynx Edicions. 2 vols. Roberts, T.J. and C. Priddy (1965). Food of the Whitebreasted kingfisher [Halcyon smyrnensis (Linnaeus)]. Journal of Bombay Natural History

Society 62 (1): 152–153.Sen, S.N. (1944). Food of the White-breasted kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnenis fusca). Journal of Bombay Natural History Society 44(3): 475.Soud, R., K. Mazumdar and A. Gupta (2010). Predation by White- throated kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis on Common wolf Snake Lycodon aulicus (Linnaeus), NeBIO 1 (1): 53 – 54.Tehsin, R. (1989). Feeding behaviour of White-breasted kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis. Journal of Bombay Natural History Society 86 (3): 449.Theba, I.N. (2010). On the diet of the White-throated kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis. Indian Birds 5(6): 181.Yahya, H.S. and S. Yasmin (1991). Earthworms in the dietary of the White-breasted kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis (Linn.). Journal of Bombay Natural History Society 88: 454.

Announcement

Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology: Research personnel wanted

Name of the position: Junior Research Fellow (2 positions); Fellowship: Commensurate with qualification / experience (+ hostel accommodation as applicable); Age: below 28 years as on the date of application; Duration: Five years or co-terminus with the project duration, whichever is earlier; the appointment will be initially for one year, and the tenure will be renewed every year based on the performance.

Qualification: Essential: M. Sc. [Environmental Sciences / Environmental Chemistry / Aquatic Biology / Marine Sciences (Marine Biology / Oceanography)] or B Tech / M Tech (Environmental Engineering). Previous working experience on environmental monitoring studies (air quality monitoring, air quality modeling, marine sampling and analysis), and laboratory analytical techniques will be an added advantage; Desirable: The candidate is expected to have proven communication skills. Candidates interested in pursuing higher studies (research as career) are only advised to apply.

Name of the position: Project Assistant (One Position); Stipend: Rs. 8000 /- per month consolidated; Age: below 28 years on the date of application; Duration: Five years or co-terminus with the project duration, whichever is earlier; the appointment will be initially for one year, and the tenure will be renewed every year based on the performance; Qualification and Experience: Essential: B. Sc. in any branch of science. Desirable: The candidate is expected to assist the project team in field and laboratory, and all other project related activities.

Age limit relaxation is available for ST/SC/OBC (NCL) /Women/PH candidates as per the Govt. of India norms.

Application on plain paper, superscribing the name of the project clearly, in the following format should reach The Director, Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology, Post Box-83, Mundra Road, Opp. Changleswar Temple, Bhuj – 370001, Gujarat latest by 27th May 2016:

(1) Name, (2) Date of Birth and Age, (3) Community, (4) Address for Communication, (5) Educational Qualifications, (6) Details of experience, if any, (7) a one-page write up on your research interest (8) List of publications and (9) Name and contact details of two referees familiar with your work. Attested copies of the degree & community certificates and mark sheets need to be enclosed.

Alternately, an electronic version of the application may be sent to desert_ecology@yahoo.com (Director’s Office) or anjanguide@gmail.com (Dr. B. Anjan Kumar Prusty, Senior Scientist, EIA Division).

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 21

Luring and attracting the prey fish through baits has been documented for some birds, especially for the members belonging to heron family (Davis and Zickefoose 1998, Kushlan, 1978). The luring is usually done through several external tools like food particles (ranging from bread pieces to live insects), feathers, leaves and twigs. We report on novel behaviour of a little egret (Egretta garzetta, Family Ardidae) using its own beak to lure prey goldfish (Carrasius auratus, Family Cyprinidae) in an artificial experimental set up designed to study predator-prey behavioural games. The experimental aviary (7m diameter) contains three equally spaced circular pools (1.52m diameter, 0.6m deep, ~1000 liters, Fig. 1). The pools hold different densities of goldfish (10, 15 or 20) depending upon the experiment. The fish is restricted to upper 15cm of water level through plastic mesh. The pools contain safe but food deprived (covered) and risky but food rich (open) habitats for prey goldfish and represent a natural condition where there is a trade-off between acquiring resources in risky area and keeping safe under protective cover. Goldfish (~5cm, 5-7 g) generally stays under the cover when egret is near or actively foraging in the pool. An automated feeder drops fish food pellets (2mm) at regular intervals.

In the experimental system, the egret typically hunts by waiting on the edge of the pool (or little farther) for the fish to come out of the cover and strikes its beak (ambush). However, one particular egret (male, 475-g) uses its beak dips as bait for luring and capturing the prey (a form of “active baiting”, sensu Zickefoose and Davis, 1998). The egret stands outside (< 0.3m) the circular pool, often close to the fish feeder, stretches its neck and purposefully and superficially dips and removes its beak tip in water surface to lure hiding goldfish out in the open water (Fig.2). Once the fish takes the bait of beak dips and swims outside the cover, the egret then strikes to catch the prey (Fig.3). The egret repeated this luring behaviour in all three pools in experimental arena. Generally, the prey goldfish cannot detect the egret standing outside the pool. This deliberate beak dip is normally done once or twice per foraging session lasting few seconds though sometimes it is repeated frequently. Using this technique, the egret was successful in catching prey goldfish suggesting that it could be an additional strategy for maximizing its capture success. For example, during a six hour foraging bout the egret performed 26 beak dip luring behaviour, fish took the bait 12 times by rushing out towards the dipping site, leading to one successful capture. We are not sure if this behaviour was first learned during the trials in

the experimental pools (mimicking the fish pellets falling from feeder and creating ripples in water) or was already acquired in the wild. The bird was caught from northern coastal Israel (Ma’agan Michael aquaculture ponds, 32° 33′ 20″ N, 34° 54′ 51″ E). We strongly suspect that the beak dipping mimics food particles falling from the feeder, as the egret performed this behaviour very close to the fish feeder. The pellets fall and float (create ripples) in water at a particular spot in the pool that act as a cue for the fish to come out from the shelter to the open water to feed. As far we know, out of the 16 egrets that participated in the behavioral experiments, only one individual (possibly two) was observed

Case report: Prey luring behaviour using beak by little egret Egretta garzettaS. Vijayan1*, T.T. Lotan2, R. Vardi3, A. Koplovich4, Y. Dubinsky5, A. Pyakurel6, Z. Abramsky7

1Dept. of Life sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel. Email: 1vijayan@post.bgu.ac.il(Corresponding author)

Fig 1. Panoramic view of one experimental arena showing the three equally spaced ponds, 1.52m in diameter and 0.6m in depth. The center of each pool has an opaque disk (18.75 to 36.75 cm radius) that fish can hide under and seek refuge from the foraging predator. The open water represents risky areas where food is available for fish

Fig 2. The little egret dipping its beak to lure the prey goldfish out in open from the central cover

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 22

performing this novel behaviour. The luring behaviour through beak dip is clearly differentiated from the bird dipping its beak to drink water, where it raises its head and beak to gulp water. We are not aware if this type of bill dip luring behaviour is recorded in nature, though different behaviours like tongue flicking or bill vibrating has been documented in herons. Egrets have been recorded to keep their beak submerged and vibrate it to attract prey (Kushlan, 1973) or repeatedly open and close its submerged beak to create ripples and trap fish (Tsuboshima 1994). Further, herons (including little egrets) have been documented using external baits (bread pieces) to lure and catch fish in the wild (Post et al 2009, Kushlan, 2011).

ReferencesDavis, W.E.J. and J. Zickefoose (1998). Bait-fishing by birds: a fascinating example of tool use. Bird Observer 26:139-143.

Kushlan, J.A. (1973). Bill-vibrating: A prey-attracting behavior of the Snowy Egret, Leucophoyx thula. The American Midland Naturalist. 89(2):509-512.

Kushlan, J.A. (1978). Feeding ecology of wading birds. Pp. 249-297 in Wading birds (A. Sprunt, IV, J. C. Ogden, and S. Winkler, eds.). Natl. Aud. Soc. Res. Rep. 7.

Kushlan, J.A. (2011). The terminology of courtship, nesting, feeding and maintenance in herons. www.HeronConservation.org, date accessed 25 April 2016.

Post, R.J., C.P.K. Post and J.F. Walsh (2009). Little Egret (Egretta garzetta) and Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea) using bait for fishing in Kenya. Waterbirds 32(3):450-452.

Tsuboshima, Y. (1994). Little Egrets using their own beaks as baits to lure fish. Strix 13: 221-223.

Zickefoose, J. and W.E J. Davis. (1998). Great blue heron (Ardea herodias) uses bread as bait for fish. Colonial Waterbirds 21:87–88.

Fig 3. The prey goldfish responds to the beak dipping bait intiated by the little egret

Announcement

15th International Elephant & Rhino Conservation and Research Symposium, Singapore Zoo, November 14-18, 2016

Pressures on wild populations of elephants and rhinos are increasing at an alarming rate, with poachers killing both species at unsustainable levels. Wildlife habitat continues to shrink while human-elephant conflict increases. Conservationists and researchers around the world are committed to protecting the remaining animals and habitat.

The fourth joint International Elephant and Rhino Conservation and Research Symposium is a forum for elephant and rhino conservationists and researchers from around the world to present conservation projects and research outcomes, new technologies in field conservation and conflict mitigation, studies in disease, reproduction and behaviour, and other issues that impact the long term survival of elephants and rhinos.

Come join us at the Singapore Zoo to share your experiences and best practices, make friends, and expand you professional network. Visit www.elephantconservation.org for more information, abstract submission, and registration. Registration will be limited to 200.

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 23

LOCATIONZürichbergstr. 221, CH-8044 Zurich, SwitzerlandPhone: +41-1-254 25 00Fax: 254 25 10URL: http://www.zoo.ch

KEY WORDSBig cat, predator

DESCRIPTIONThe Gir Forest in the Indian State Gujarat was a reference for the Indian Lion exhibit at Zoo Zurich. Not only do the natural habitat of the lions, but also the cultural environment of the local people serve as themes for the design and interpretation of the exhibit.

An existing building was redesigned for the indoor enclosures for lions, otters and birds, and for keeper facilities. A visitor space with a view into the indoor lion exhibit and an interpretation area was also included in the redesign. The front of the building is a visitor space, while its back side stretches along a slope. A netted exhibit for various species such as small cats, chipmunks or birds is attached to the right side of the building. Outdoor exhibits for otters and lions are linked to its left side. The outdoor lion exhibit stretches along the slope. SIZETotal reconstructed area: 6000 m²; Outside Enclosure: 1760 m²; Inside Enclosure: 220 m²; Outside Visitor Area: 1630 m²; Inside Visitor Area: 120 m²; Vegetation and Service Areas: 2270 m².

Space allocation in square meters:

COSTSSwiss Francs 7,500,000The costs include the buiding and the outdoor facilities around the building for Asian lions, otters and birds as well as all exhibitions and interpretation.

OPENING DATE28 June 2006 DESIGNBeginning: • Design and landscape architecture: Vetsch, Nipkow, Partner AG, Zurich • Architecture: Mark Ryf, Zurich • Structural Engineer: APT Ing. GmbH, Zurich • Electrical Engineer: Schmidinger and Rosasco AG, Zurich • Plumbing: Schudel and Eberle, Winterthur

Zoo ZurichIndian Lions ExhibitAuthor: Andreas HohlEditors: Corinne Bailey, Monika Fibyhttp://www.zoolex.org/zoolexcgi/view.py?id=1126

Family Species Common Name Capacity

Estrildidae Padda oryzivora Java sparrow 10

Felidae Panthera leo persica

Asiatic lion 1,3 + young

Mustelidae Aonyx cinerea Asian small clawed otters 1,1 + young

use indoorsindoors outdoorsoutdoors total exhibit

useaccessible total accessible total

total exhibit

animals 120 120 1,760 1,760 1,880visitors 120 120 1,630 1,630 1,750others 100 100 2,270 2,270 2,370total 340 340 5,660 5,660 6,000

Asiatic Lion (1) ©Monika Fiby, 2009

ANIMALS

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 24

• Heating, Air Conditioning: Huwyler and Koch, Zurich • Exhibition Design: Formwerk AG, Zurich

CONSTRUCTIONBeginning: April 2005• Building: Halter Bauunternehmung AG • Heating: F. Heusser AG • Artificial Rock: Huber Straub AG • Plumbing: Preisig AG • Gardening: Matter Gartenbau

PLANTSPlants and bushes with large yellowish leaves, dry grasses and burnt looking ground simulate the dry forest with lava soil. The lava, soil, sand, gravel and rock substrates are used for both indoor and outdoor

enclosures. The ground is hilly with plenty of open scrubland.

The plant list specifies the Latin names of the plants used for this exhibit.

FEATURES DEDICATED TO ANIMALSThe outdoor exhibit is always accessible for the lions, except during daily maintenance by the keepers. It offers various substrates, running water, sunny and shady places and incentives for patrolling. Pieces of meat are hung on ropes and put into boxes in the lion exhibit. The boxes open randomly on a timer, so the lions get continual enrichment without becoming habituated. The lions are not fed regularly for the same reason.

Overview of zoo, with the lion exhibit complex highlighted in pink. ©Zoo Zurich, 2015

Indian Lion Outdoor Exhibit (24) ©Monika Fiby, 2009

Indian Lion Visitor Lookout: Visitor viewpoints are themed to reflect the structures in the Gir forest ©Monika Fiby, 2009

Cave Drawings and Peek Holes (14) ©Monika Fiby, 2009

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 25

FEATURES DEDICATED TO KEEPERSThe Indian Lion facilities have a kitchen and a storage area. A shift door system operated from inside the service area ensures the safety and security of the keepers. Keepers can view the indoor animal enclosure from the service area through secure meshed or barred hatches. From the service area, keepers also have access to the electrical and water maintenance. FEATURES DEDICATED TO VISITORSThe Indian Lion exhibit has an indoor space and an outdoor shelter for interpretation. A seating area and self-service machines in front of the building offer picnic opportunities. The indoor visitor area is themed to replicate the lion’s habitat by, for example, using artificial rock seating and artificial rock barriers. This adds to the immersive feeling of the exhibit. There are plenty of interactive signs spread around the exhibit and the visitor area, which encourage visitors to become engaged with the lion, its habitat and its conservation.

The lion exhibit is stretched along a slope and offers views from various angles and levels.

INTERPRETATIONThe buildings were constructed and painted to reflect the Indian tradition around the Gir Forest, even using Indian lettering. The thematic interpretation is made clear throughout the exhibit, and can be seen in the planting representing a dry forest and the artificial rock seating.

More formal interpretation is featured in the visitor area. Here, graphics illustrate how the relationship between man and lion is one of fear and reverence across times and continents. Lion-related artefacts from various cultures - European, Mediterranean, African and Asian - are interpreted in German, French and English. The story of extinction is illustrated and finishes with an electronic count of the present increasing numbers of man and decreasing numbers of lions in the wild.

Elevated Visitor Lookout ©Monika Fiby, 2009

Keeper’s Kitchen ©Monika Fiby, 2009Service Area Shift Door Levers ©Monika Fiby, 2009

Indian Lion Exhibition ©Monika Fiby, 2009

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 26

MANAGEMENTThe lions always have access to their outdoor exhibit and an indoor separation enclosure and rarely use their indoor exhibit. The indoor exhibit is is mostly used by the otters which also have an outdoor exhibit and an indoor separation enclosure and the birds which also have their own aviary.

The keepers enter the exhibits once a day for cleaning, feeding and providing enrichment.

RESEARCHZoo Zurich supported habitat research in Kuno, with the goal of reintroducing wild lions in this region.

CONSERVATIONFor the indoor facilities, an existing building was renovated and newly insulated.

Zoo Zurich supported the development of a new protected nature reserve in the habitat of the lions in India.

LOCAL RESOURCESLocal companies were contracted for design and construction.

Population Count: Humans and Lions ©Monika Fiby, 2009

Many Languages ©Monika Fiby, 2009

Visitor Shelter with Exhibition ©Monika Fiby, 2009

Lion Enclosure Security Door ©Monika Fiby, 2009

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 27

Sundarvan - 2016 Earth Day Photo Contest and Photography WorkshopTo encourage people to appreciate the beautiful nature surrounding them, to re-kindle a forgotten joy and to inspire a sense of responsibility towards wildlife, Sundarvan organizes a photography competition every year on Earth Day, 22nd April. This year, with the support of a local photography school, Geeta School of Photography, our team also invited an experienced photographer, Mr Subil Shah, to conduct a workshop for a small group of participants.

Contestants were to visit Sundarvan and click a photograph depicting wildlife or our interaction with it through the medium of zoo. We received around 50 registrations of which top ten finalists received goodies. The winner received a professional tripod for his fantastically captured coppersmith barbets and the second and third runners up received camera bag and storage device respectively. Participants submitted lovely photographs of wildlife and creatively framed visitor interactions. To encourage budding photographers we also announced a prize in facebook category in which a student won with more than 230 likes on a photograph of a beautifully perched peacock.

The photography workshop was a huge success with discussions on basic tips and insight on photography and focus on capturing natural elements. This was followed by a walk in Sundarvan as the participants

tried out their hand in an expert’s presence. The prize distribution also happened during the workshop and it was a moment of joy when the youngest participant, a nine year old realized that he made it to top ten! The session was concluded with a discussion about Earth Day and a promise that we will all play our little part in contributing towards appreciation and preservation of our planet. Submitted by: S. Sivakumar, Park Manager, Jignasa Patel, Education Officer, Sundarvan & Meena Nareshwar, Senior Programme Co-ordinator, CEE. Email: jignasa.patel@ceeindia.org

Education Report

Winner of 2016 Earth Day Photo Contest

Participants of Photography Workshop at Sundarvan

ZOO’s PRINT, Volume XXXI, Number 5, May 2016 28

Announcement

August 11 & 12, 2016Organized by

School of Energy, Environment and Natural ResourcesMadurai Kamaraj University

&National Academy of

Biological Sciences (NABS), Chennai

Venue: School of Energy, Environment and Natural Resources, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai - 625 021, Tamil Nadu, India.

The essence of New Biology is an integration of many sub-disciplines of Biology including Agriculture, Energy, Environment, Health and Climate Change to create a research community with the capacity to tackle a broad range of scientific and societal problems. Integrating knowledge from many such disciplines will permit deeper understanding of biological systems, which will lead to biology-based solutions to societal problems and also feed back to enrich the individual scientific disciplines that contribute new insights. It represents an additional complementary approach to biological research, which marshals the basic research to advance fundamental understanding, brings together researchers with different expertise, develops technologies required for the task and coordinates efforts to ensure that gaps are filled, problems solved and resources brought to bear at the right time. The aim of New Biology is to attract best minds from across the scientific landscape to particular problems, ensure that innovations and advances are swiftly communicated and provide the tools and technologies needed to succeed. Such efforts would include projects at different scales, from individual laboratories, to collaborations involving many participants, to consortia involving multiple institutions and types of research.

ObjectivesThe conference is a national initiative which will focus to accelerate the emergence and growth of the New Biology to achieve solutions to societal challenges in terms of food, energy, environment, health and climate change.

Conference ThemesThe conference themes focus on New Biological Researches in the subject areas of• AgriculturalSciences• Biological Sciences• EnergySciences• Environmental Sciences• Health Sciences• Climate Change

For further information about the conference contactProf. Dr. K. Muthuchelian, D.Sc., FNABS, FZSI, FPBS, FIEF (Canada) Organizing SecretaryPh: 0452-2458020, 2458471 (Ext. 365); Fax: 0452-2458020, Mobile: 089031 11333. Email: nabsnbrconference2016@gmail.comWebsite: http://nabsindia.org/downloads/9th%20NABS%20NationalConference.pdf

Publication Information

ZOO’s PRINT, ISSN 0973-2543Published at: CoimbatoreOwner: Zoo Outreach Organisation, 96, Kumudham Nagar, Vilankurichi Road, CBE 35

Editor: Sally R. WalkerAssociate Editors: R.V. Sanjay Molur and Daniel B. AyyachamyManaging Editor: Latha G. RavikumarEditorial Assistant: R. Marimuthu

Zoo Outreach Organisation Trust Committee and Sr. Staff Managing Trustee: Sally R. WalkerChairman Trustee: R. NandiniExecutive Director Trustee: R.V. Sanjay MolurFinance Director Trustee: Latha G. RavikumarScientist: B.A. DanielResearcher: R. MarimuthuOther staff: B. Ravichandran, R. Pravin Kumar, K. Geetha, S. Radhika, Arul Jagadish, K. Raveendran, S. Sarojamma

ZOOs’ PRINT magazine is informal and newsy as opposed to a scientific publication. ZOOS’ PRINT magazine sometimes includes semi-scientific and technical articles which are reviewed only for factual errors, not peer-reviewed.

Address Zoo Outreach Organisation Post Box 5912, 96, Kumudham Nagar, Vilankurichi RoadCoimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641 035, IndiaPhone: +91 422 2665298Fax: +91 422 2665472E-mail: zooreach@zooreach.orgWebsite: www.zooreach.org, www.zoosprint.org

ZOO’s PRINT Publication Guidelines

We welcome articles from the conservation community of all SAARC countries, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and other tropical countries if relevant to SAARC countries’ problems and potential.

Type — Articles of semi-scientific or technical nature. News, notes, announcements of interest to conservation community and personal opinion pieces.

Feature articles — articles of a conjectural nature — opinions, theoretical, subjective.

Case reports: case studies or notes, short factual reports and descriptions.

News and announcements — short items of news or announcements of interest to zoo and wildlife community

Cartoons, puzzles, crossword and stories

Subject matter: Captive breeding, (wild) animal husbandry and management, wildlife management, field notes, conservation biology, population dynamics, population genetics, conservation education and interpretation, wild animal welfare, conservation of flora, natural history and history of zoos. Articles on rare breeds of domestic animals are also considered.

Source: Zoos, breeding facilities, holding facilities, rescue centres, research institutes, wildlife departments, wildlife protected areas, bioparks, conservation centres, botanic gardens, museums, universities, etc. Individuals interested in conservation with information and opinions to share can submit articles ZOOS’ PRINT magazine.

Manuscript requirementsArticles should by typed into a Word format and emailed to zooreach@zooreach.org. Avoid indents, all caps or any other fancy typesetting. You may send photos, illustrations, tables.

Articles which should contain citations should follow this guideline: a bibliography organized alphabetically and containing all details referred in the following style: surname, initial(s), year, title of the article, name of journal, volume, number, pages.

Editorial detailsArticles will be edited without consultation unless previously requested by the authors in writing. Authors should inform editors if the article has been published or submitted elsewhere for publication.

Magazine of Zoo Outreach Organization

Announcement

2016 - Year of the OtterNew awards for outstanding achievements in otter conservation Support the year of the Otter.

International Otter Survival Fund IOSF has declared 2016 to be the Year of the Otter and we would like to invite you to take part. The aim of the Year is to draw attention to the plight of the world’s otters and to raise funds for their conservation.

There are 13 species worldwide – they are all listed in the IUCN Red List and 12 are still declining in number.

IOSF has a special appeal to raise £65,000 in 2016 – that is £5,000 for each species. If you need ideas on how you can get involved just download our fundraising pack at http://www.otter.org/Public/HelpUs_WhatYouCanDoToHelp.aspx.

Annual World Otter Day, this year will be on Wednesday 25 May.

As part of the Year of the Otter, IOSF is launching new awards for outstanding achievements in otter conservation worldwide. These awards are open to all and will be presented annually beginning in December 2016. The categories for the awards are:

Children – Open to anyone aged 12 years or under (as at 1 December 2016). This can include any activity aimed to promote otter conservation such as artwork, writing, fundraising, etcYoung People – Open to anyone from 13 – 18 years (as at 1 December 2016). This can include any activity aimed to promote otter conservation such as artwork, writing, fundraising, etcGroup/Organisation – For example school, natural history group, Scouts/Guides, etc.Community Achievement – Any activity which involves local communities in otter conservation. This can be in the form of practical work, education, etc.Research – Open to amateur or professional researchers. The research must have taken place during 2016, although ongoing projects may be submitted. Any projects must not involve any procedure which is invasive or in any other way harms the animal. The project may involve animals in the wild or in captivity but this must be made clear in the application.Photography – Open to amateur or professional photographers. All photos must have been taken during 2016 and entries must indicate where and when it was taken, and if the photo was taken in the wild or in captivity. Photos may also include habitat or otter signs.Special Award – Open to anyone who has made a lifelong commitment to otter conservation or for an activity which does not fit into any other category

Applications/nominations can be made in more than one category and Children and Young People can also enter other categories.

If you wish to apply or nominate someone for an award, please complete the online form at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1YmfX7yMZjMeAjfKiGag_YrPKxx00s5e2uXVXTExDNaE/edit?usp=forms_home&ths=true by 1 November 2016. Results will be announced on 1 December 2016.

You can donate to our crowdfunding page at https://www.buzzbnk.org/ProjectDetails.aspx?projectId=266 and please also pass this on to friends and family.

Let us know how you will be supporting the Year of the Otter and we will publicise it on our website and through our monthly e-update. You can also contact us at enquiries@otter.org if you have any questions or need any further information or help.

TOGETHER WE CAN BECOME A VERY LOUD VOICE TO MAKE PEOPLE TAKE NOTICE AND LISTEN.