The high altitude wildlife areas of western Arunachal Pradesh

The High Altitude Wildlife of Western
Arunachal Pradesh: A Survey Report
Abstract
The high altitude wildlife of Arunachal Pradesh, located in the Eastern Himalaya
biodiversity hotspot, has remained unexplored and unprotected. Between August and
October, 2003, we undertook a biological expedition in the high altitudes (> 3000 m)
of Tawang and West Kameng Districts of Western Arunachal Pradesh, with the
objective of inventorying wildlife and identifying areas for the establishment of wildlife
reserves. The expedition documented the occurrence of a rich mammalian species
assemblage (34 species), 12 of which are of global conservation importance. Our
discovery of the Chinese goral Nemorhaedus caudatus represents a new addition to the
list of large mammals of the Indian sub-continent. We also recorded a primate
belonging to the sinica group of the genus Macaca, which is potentially a species new
to science. We recorded 150 bird species, identified 140 plant species, and prepared a
preliminary description of the high altitude vegetation. We also documented peoples’
dependence on natural resources (grazing, collection of timber and medicinal plants),
and the threats to the region’s wildlife, including widespread hunting, and persecution
of the snow leopard Uncia uncia and dhole Cuon alpinus in retaliation against livestock
depredation. Preliminary vegetation maps were prepared using field data in
conjunction with satellite imageries. Based on information about the wildlife
assemblages, extent of high altitude habitat, and levels of anthropogenic disturbance,
we identify and propose an important site (815 km 2 ) for the creation of a wildlife
reserve. Future conservation efforts need to focus on establishing the state’s first high
altitude wildlife reserve, and garnering the support of indigenous people for wildlife
conservation through community-based programs.
i