Unveiling a wildlife haven: status and distribution of four Trans-Himalayan ungulates in Sikkim, India

摘要: We conducted surveys in the Trans-Himalayan Tso Lhamo plateau Sikkim, India, to ascertain status and distribution of some India’s last surviving populations wild ungulates (numbers brackets are estimates for Sikkim): Tibetan argali Ovis ammon hodgsoni (c. 177 individuals), gazelle Procapra picticaudata 77), kiang Equus polyodon 18). Topography appears have an important influence on ungulate distribution, these species aggregated a small region along northern boundary plateau. Persistence this area can be attributed non-hunting tradition local residents seasonal absence livestock (yak Bos grunniens domestic sheep aries) grazing. Nonetheless, remain vulnerable because their anthropogenic pressure habitats. recommend that conservation prioritized wildlife habitats through partnerships with communities.