Population Status and Habitat Utilization of Common Peafowl (Pavo cristatus, Linnaeus, 1758) in Ghailaghari Buffer Zone Community Forest, Chitwan, Nepal

Abstract

This study aimed to estimate population status, define habitat use and crop loss caused by Common Peafowl. The study was carried out from April 2012 to February 2013. Direct count method was used to estimate population status and habitat preference of Common Peafowl. Crop loss was evaluated by questionnaire survey. A total of 43 individuals of peafowl were counted through direct count method in four season from three habitat. The population density was 28 individuals per sq km for peafowl. The study area was divided into three habitats, Bhellar-Sissoo (Trewia Dalbergia)

dominated, Simal (Bombax ceiba) dominated, and Grassland dominated. Observations were based on direct methods. There was no significant difference in number of peafowl in different habitats due to season (χ2=0.65233, df=3, P=0.603525). Vegetation of the area was studied categorically applying different quadrat size. Bhellar-Sissoo (Trewia-Dalbergia) habitat was found to be most preferred than Simal (Bombax ceiba) and Grassland habitat. Summer season was found to be most preferred and winter least preferred, since more number of peafowl were observed in the Bhellar Sissoo (Trewia-Dalbergia) habitat and this habitat seems to be best for Common Peafowl

related

to food, space, and water. There was no significant difference in numbers of peafowl in different seasons (χ2=0.6407, df=3, P=0.6253) but significant difference was found in numbers of peafowl among different habitats (χ2=8.1023, df=2, P=0.0244). A total 11 species of trees, dominated by Bhellar (Trewia nudiflora), 23 species of shrubs, dominated by Sisnoo (Urtica dioica) and 54 species of herbs, dominated by herbaceous climber Mikania, were found in study area. Study of crop damage found that Rice was lost in high amount (60.7%). Mustard in fewer amounts (1.96%). Evaluation of crop loss from the information given by respondent suggests that lack of food inside the forest were the main cause for crop damage.