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Conservation status and threats of lesser known Sciuridae species in Dibang Valley District of Arunachal Pradesh, India

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Author Affiliations

  • 1Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun-248001, India
  • 2Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun-248001, India
  • 3Dibang Wildlife, Nature Conservation and Ecotourism Development Society (DWNCS), Anini, Dibang Valley District, Arunachal Pradesh, India

Int. Res. J. Biological Sci., Volume 10, Issue (3), Pages 25-31, August,10 (2021)

Abstract

Pristine forests of northeast India harbor different species belonging to Sciuridae family. Dibang Valley District of Arunachal Pradesh state has a wide range of forest types, elevation and environmental conditions that provide an ideal habitat for gliders and arboreals. However, the existing knowledge about these lesser-known species in this region is very limited, and therefore this study aims to understand the current conservation status of six squirrels’ species, viz. Callosciurus pygerythrus, Dremomys lokriah, Callosciurus erythraeus, Tamiops macclellandi, Hylopetes alboniger, and Petaurista mishmiensis. We approached the indigenous Idu Community who predominantly resides at the Dibang Valley District and conducted a semi-structured questionnaire survey to evaluate their Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) about these species. The outcome of the survey highlights serious concern of anthropogenic factors for the diminishing population of the gliders and arboreals in the region. Wild hunting, accelerated developmental activities, fragmented habitat, over-harvesting of non-timber forest products (NTFP) and timber logging are the major threats for the population decline. Possible conversation programs in this area should include long-term activities such as community-based conservation-friendly initiatives, sensitization through awareness programs, alternative livelihood options, and sustainable developmental programs.

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