The Greater One-horned Rhinoceros Conservation Action Plan ...assets.panda.org/downloads/rhino_action_plan_25aug_06_low.pdf · The Greater One-horned Rhinoceros Conservation Action

The Greater One-hornedRhinoceros ConservationAction Plan for Nepal(2006 - 2011)

Government of NepalMinistry of Forests and Soil ConservationDepartment of National Parks and Wildlife ConservationKathmandu, Nepal2006

Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation

PO Box 860, Babar Mahal, Kathmandu, Nepal

All Rights Reserved © 2006

Printed with support from WWF Nepal

2006

Photo Credits:

Front Cover: up © WWF / Christy WILLIAMS; down © WWF-Canon / Jeff FOOTT

Back Cover: © WWF Nepal / Kanchan THAPA

Design and Printing: Format Printing Press

for a living planet ®

The Greater One-horned

RhinocerosConservation Action Plan

for Nepal (2006 - 2011)

Government of NepalMinistry of Forests and Soil Conservation

Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation

Supported byWWF Nepal

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Foreword

Over the past decades, the Government of Nepal has shown great dedication toconservation and safeguarding endangered wildlife. The principles stated in theNational Biodiversity Strategy, 2002 along with Convention on Biological Diversity andthe Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora-all exhibit, a conducive environment for biodiversity conservation.

The Greater One-horned Rhinoceros is perhaps the most enduring emblem of Nepal'srich biological heritage. Not only is it important to conservationists for its ecologicalvalue but it also holds a universal appeal for ordinary people. In recent years, rhinopoaching has been one of the major threats for the survival of this species. However,Government of Nepal is, to the extent possible, dedicated to conserve this animal fornow and for future generation.

In recent days, the occasional death of rhino has alerted us. This has made theGovernment of Nepal together with wide range of stakeholders drew up the GreaterOne-horned Rhinoceros Conservation Action Plan to put effective measures in place.It reflects our commitment to a more cohesive, Participatory and proactive roletowards conservation of this species and its habitat.

In this regard, I would like to extend our sincere thanks to all our partners andstakeholders in conserving rhinoceros till date. The Government would like to seektheir continuous support in implementing this Action Plan through financial, technicaland social means.

I am confident that this Action Plan will contribute in conserving and managingrhinocers and its habitat more effectively and efficiently in the days to come.

Gopal RaiHonorable Minister of State

Foreword

Nepal has shown great commitment to the conservation of its rich biodiversity and thesurvival of flagship species like Greater One-horned Rhinoceros for over four decades.Of equal significance are Nepal’s policies on wildlife conservation, which areconsidered to rank among the most participatory in their implementation in the world.Despite these concerted efforts and achievements,many wildlife species, particularlythe rhino, is still endangered.

Rhinos are precious gift of nature not only for us but also for our future generation.Of many challenges to the long-term survival and conservation of rhinos, none is moredangerous than the organized international trade in rhino horn that encourages rampantpoaching. It is one of the key threats addressed in the Rhino Action Plan prepared bythe Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation with support from itsconservation partners and endorsed by the Government of Nepal.

Government of Nepal greatly acknowledges the contribution of wildlife conservationpartners and request for their continuous support for the implementation of this plan forthe benefit of mankind and our environment. I would also like to emphasize the role oflocal communities in its implementation. The responsibility and stewardship of thismagnificent species lies with each of us. Without our active participation andcontribution, the Greater One-horned Rhinoceros will not survive in our great floodplainsand the Terai forests.

Finally, I would like to thank all the individuals and organizations involved in shaping ofthis document and affirm the commitment of the Ministry to save the Greater One-horned Rhinoceros.

Damodar Prasad Parajuli, PhDActing Secretary

The Greater One-horned Rhinoceros faces tremendous pressure for its survival asmore of the fertile Terai, especially the Chitwan valley, changes to human settlements.The rapid conversion of prime rhino habitat into agricultural land coupled with a highdemand for rhino horns has made serious inroads into the remaining rhino population.

In the past few decades, various efforts have been implemented for the conservationof this endangered species by the Government of Nepal and other partnerorganizations, yet we have still yet to guarantee the safety of its long-term survival.While encroachment of rhino habitat, decrease in grassland and food competition withlivestock are a few enduring threats, a growing concern in recent years has beenpoaching fuelled by the international illegal wildlife trade. The political instability and theinsurgency of the past decade also added to the conservation challenges.

It is imperative, now more than ever, for Nepal to put appropriate policies and actionplans into action for the long-term conservation of rhinos. We may lose the rhinopopulation of Nepal if we fail to act on time. In this context, the Greater One-hornedRhinoceros Conservation Action Plan is an important step to holistically address theissues and chart out a plan.

The plan in itself cannot ensure the survival of rhinos. Its implementation is theresponsibility of all stakeholders. The financial aspect of rhino conservation issomething that we cannot afford to ignore and I urge renewed and greater contributionsfrom donor agencies at this juncture. Without this vital support, the actions proposed inthe plan cannot be executed and will remain mere words.

I would like to thank Mr Shyam Bajimaya, Mr Shiv Raj Bhatta and Dr Shant RajJnawali for taking the responsibility of preparing such an important document to savethe rhinos of Nepal. I would also like to thank those who provided valuable inputs aswell as those who supported the team directly or indirectly. Last but not the least, mythanks to WWF Nepal for their support in the preparation of this document.

Narayan Prasad PoudelDirector General

Preface

Government of NepalMinistry of Forests & Soil Conservation

Department of National Parks & Wildlife Conservation

Message

WWF, the global conservation organization, has worked for the conservation ofendangered species in Nepal since 1967. We supported the Government of Nepal in itsconservation efforts and substantial successes were achieved in bringing endangeredspecies of fauna back from the brink of extinction. The Greater One-horned Rhinocerosis a notable example; its population increased from less than one hundred in the late1950s to more than 600 in the late 1990s.

Path-breaking conservation accomplishments were made through collaborations withthe Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation and other partnerorganizations. It was a privilege for WWF to be a part of initiatives like RhinoTranslocations and Rhino Counts.

In the past, WWF focused primarily on the conservation of endangered species but bythe 1990s our approach shifted from site-specific to the landscape level resulting in theTerai Arc Landscape. This joint initiative of the Government of Nepal and WWF Nepalcreates additional habitat for mega species and also provides livelihood opportunitiesfor local communities.

Despite the strides made in rhino conservation, the future of the species is still underthreat. The Greater One-horned Rhinoceros Conservation Action Plan will enable us totackle the challenges in the best possible way. This plan, prepared and approved bythe Government of Nepal, envisages future policies, plans, and strategies.

Our thanks go to the Government of Nepal for giving us the opportunity to contribute toconservation in Nepal. We are especially grateful to the team led by Mr. ShyamBajimaya that completed this plan. WWF Nepal assures continued cooperation forconservation and expresses confidence that the Greater One-horned Rhinoceros willsurvive and thrive in the forests of Nepal if all work together.

Chandra P. Gurung, PhDCountry Representative

for a living planet ®

xi

Acknowledgements

First and foremost we would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Departmentof National Parks and Wildlife Conservation for allowing us to prepare theGreater One-horned Rhinoceros Conservation Action Plan of Nepal and WWF

Nepal for providing financial support.

We would also like to sincerely thank Mr. Narayan Prasad Paudel, Director General ofDepartment of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) and Dr. Tirtha ManMaskey, former Director General of DNPWC and Co-Chair of AsRSG for encouraging intaking this initiative. Dr. Chandra Prasad Gurung, Country Representative, Mr. AnilManandhar and Dr. Sarala Khaling from WWF Nepal deserve special thank for theirsupport. In addition we would like to thank Mr. Ukesh Raj Bhuju for his contribution. Wewould like to thank wardens and park staffs for their contribution in preparing thisdocument. Finally, we acknowledge the contribution to the Greater One-hornedRhinoceros Action Plan made by Mr. Kanchan Thapa, Mr. Gokarna Jung Thapa andMs. Trishna Gurung in the final preparation of this document.

The reviewers Dr. Tirtha Man Maskey and Dr. Prahlad Yonzon also deserve our specialthanks for their valuable comments. Finally, we would like to thank Mr. Narendra ManBabu Pradhan and all those who have provided valuable suggestions and commentsto improve this document.

Team members:Mr. Shyam BajimayaMr. Shiv Raj BhattaDr. Shant Raj Jnawali

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APU Anti Poaching UnitAsRSG Asian Rhino Specialist GroupBCC Biodiversity Conservation CenterBCP Bardia Conservation ProjectBICP Bardia Integrated Conservation ProjectBNP Bardia National ParkCBD Convention on Biological DiversityCITES Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of

Wild Fauna & FloraCNP Chitwan National ParkCR Critically EndangeredDNPWC Department of National Parks and Wildlife ConservationDoF Department of ForestsEN EndangeredEX ExtinctionGEF Global Environment FacilitiesGTF Global Tiger ForumINGO International Non-Governmental OrganizationITNC International Trust for Nature ConservationIUCN World Conservation UnionKMTNC King Mahendra Trust for Nature ConservationMFSC Ministry of Forests and Soil ConservationNGO Non-Governmental OrganizationPCP Participatory Conservation ProgramPHVA Population Habitat Viability AnalysisPWR Parsa Wildlife ReserveSNV Netherlands Development OrganizationSWR Suklaphanta Wildlife ReserveTAL Terai Arc LandscapeTRCP Tiger Rhino Conservation ProjectUNDP United Nations Development ProgramUSAID United States Agency for International DevelopmentVDC Village Development CommitteeVU VulnerableWETTREC Western Terai Tiger, Rhino, Elephant Complex ProjectWTLBP Western Terai Landscape Building ProgramWTLCP Western Terai Landscape Complex ProjectWWF World Wide Fund for Nature

Acronyms

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Contents

Foreword iiiPreface viiMessage ixAcknowledgements xiAcronyms xiiExecutive Summary xvGoal 1Introduction 2Background 4Current Status and Distribution 8Mortality in Chitwan and Bardia 11Rhino Habitat 13Reintroduction of Rhinoceros 14Current Opportunities for Rhino Conservation 15Nepal’s Rhino Conservation Action Plan Framework 16

Objective 1 Continue study on rhinoceros biology and their habitat, andestablish database with monitoring system 16

Objective 2 Habitat expansion through rehabilitation/restoration of identifiedpriority rhino habitats 19

Objective 3 Reintroduce rhinos to create at least viable population 20Objective 4 Improve rhino-human relationship through buffer zone

development and conservation education 21Objective 5 Strengthen anti-poaching capability 23Objective 6 Build institutional capacity 25Objective 7 Limit transfer of Rhinos for ex-situ conservation from wild populations 26Objective 8 Strengthen national, transboundary, regional and international

collaboration 27Objective 9 Ensure sustainable funding to implement rhino conservation action plan 28

Appendix - 1: Natural History of Greater One-horned Rhinoceros 32

Literature Cited 34

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List of Figures

Fig 1: Asian Greater One-horned Rhinoceros-History and Present Distribution 2Fig 2: Historic Distribution and Current Numbers of Asian Rhinos 4Fig 3: Map of Protected Areas of Nepal 6Fig 4: Map of Rhino Habitat in Terai Protected Areas 7Fig 5: Population Trend of Rhinoceros in Nepal 8Fig 6: Rhino Population in CNP 9Fig 7: Rhino Population in BNP 10Fig 8: Rhino Population in SWR 10

List of Tables

Table 1: Assessment of Asian rhino species by IUCN Red List Criteria 9Table 2: Population Estimate Of Greater One-horned Rhinoceros In Nepal 9Table 3: Overview Of Current and Target Populations and Protected Areas For

Greater One-horned Rhinoceros 10Table 4: Annual Rhino Mortality in CNP and BNP 11

THE GREATER ONE-HORNED RHINOCEROS CONSERVATION ACTION PLAN FOR NEPALxiv

xvxv

Executive Summary

The rhinoceros are of specialinterest for conservation for theirrole in maintaining the terai

biodiversity. The purpose of this GreaterOne-horned Rhinoceros ConservationAction Plan is to emphasize on whatneeds to be done to conserve the speciesRhinoceros unicornis in perpetuity. TheGovernment of Nepal has embracedconservation initiatives in or beyond theprotected areas in favor of maintainingviable populations of rhinoceros.

Rhino translocation has been successfulconservation initiatives conducted byGovernment of Nepal in collaboration withWWF Nepal and KMTNC. A total of 87rhinos were translocated from ChitwanNational Park (CNP) to Bardia NationalPark (BNP) and Suklaphanta WildlifeReserve (SWR) from 1986 to 2003 in aneffort to establish viable rhino populationsin other protected areas.

Several studies on rhinos had revealedthat the population had increasedgradually pertaining to effective anti-poaching operation and intelligencenetwork in the period 1975-2000. TheCount Rhino-1994 estimated a populationsize of 466 individuals with an increase to544 individual in Rhino Count-2000 inCNP. This increase in number ofrhinoceros proved that population canrebound vigorously when sufficient habitatand protection are provided.

In last few years, Nepal witnessed acolossal loss in wildlife richnessparticularly large mammals likerhinoceros due to disappearance of mostof the alluvial plain grassland habitatcombined with poaching for itscommercially valued horns. The rhinopoaching has been fluctuating over timeand had surged in 2002. This had beenreflected in recent Rhino Count-2005which has estimated rhino population sizeof 372 individual in CNP from 544 individualin 2000. Currently, rhino population size isestimated at 446 individuals in three teraiprotected areas of Nepal.

Since protection of rhinoceros and theirhabitats is indeed imperative for long-termconservation, the action plan incorporatesthe Asian Rhino Specialist Group’s(AsRSG) recommendations for theconservation of rhino as a species and acomponent of ecosystems. To respond tothe threats to wild populations;monitoring, habitat maintenance andefforts to establish new wild populationsthrough translocations are underway. Atimely decision in forming Anti-poachingoperations and providing rewards to theinformants will help in combating rhinopoaching in Nepal.

Over the period, the rhino population hadled to the food competition with thelivestock leading to increase in cropdepredation. This had increased the

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incidents of local harassment and cropdamage and has created conflict betweenthe local people residing in the bufferzones. The implementation of buffer zonethrough community participation in localdevelopment will certainly bring positiveattitudes among local people towardbiodiversity conservation.

Rhinoceros has always been in demandfrom zoos and research stations. Totranspire a scientific basis for rhinoconservation, a long-term research andmonitoring program should be initiated.Similarly, different conservationawareness programs need to beimplemented in cooperation with thebuffer zone institutions, local NGOs andother relevant organizations.

In addition, to increase the efficiency ofpark staff in rhino conservation, specifictraining should be provided on regularbasis for enhancing their skills andcapabilities. Also, Nepal is promotingtransboundary cooperation with herneighboring countries for the protection ofwildlife and controlling illegal trade onwildlife. Therefore, a regional andinternational collaboration will be alwaysnecessary for effective conservation ofrhinoceros in the range states.

However, financial resources have alwaysbeen the limiting factor in implementingeffective conservation program in future.A mechanism for mobilizing fundsobtained from exchange program shouldbe developed for creating a sustainablefunding in rhino conservation.

The Action Plan consists of ExecutiveSummary, Goal, Introduction, Background,Current Status and Distribution, CurrentOpportunities for Rhino Conservation,Action Plan Framework, Literature Citation,lists of Figures and Tables along withForeword, Preface, Message,Acknowledgements and Acronyms. TheAction Plan Framework is as follows:

Objective 1: Continue study on rhinocerosbiology and their habitat, and establishdatabase with monitoring system

Objective 2: Habitat expansion throughrehabilitation/restoration of identifiedpriority rhino habitats

Objective 3 Reintroduce rhinos to createat least viable population

Objective 4: Improve rhino-humanrelationship through buffer zonedevelopment and conservation education

Objective 5: Strengthen anti-poachingcapability

Objective 6: Build institutional capacity

Objective 7: Limit transfer of Rhinos forex-situ conservation from wild populations

Objective 8: Strengthen national,transboundary, regional and internationalcollaboration

Objective 9: Ensure sustainable funding toimplement the rhino conservation actionplan

THE GREATER ONE-HORNED RHINOCEROS CONSERVATION ACTION PLAN FOR NEPALxvi

The purpose of this Greater One-horned Rhinoceros ConservationAction Plan is primarily to

emphasis on in-situ conservation or whatneeds to be done to preserve the speciesRhinoceros unicornis in perpetuity andreinforce the continuing recovery ofrhinoceros populations in Nepal. TheGovernment of Nepal shall embraceconservation initiatives beyond protectedareas in favor of maintaining viablepopulations of rhinoceros in CNP, BNPand SWR.

Since the protection of both animals andtheir habitats is indeed imperative forlong-term conservation, the action planincorporates the Asian Rhino SpecialistGroup's (AsRSG) recommendations forthe conservation of rhino as a speciesand as a component of their ecosystems,and aims to:

1. Maintain at least wild viablepopulations of rhinoceros and their

habitats in CNP, BNP and SWR;2. Develop local guardianship through

conservation awareness and BufferZone development programs;

3. Respond to threats mainly poachingfor long-term conservation;

4. Continue efforts locally, nationallyand internationally to stop the illegaltrade in rhino horns and theirproducts;

5. Continue scientific studies andmonitoring of wild rhino populations;

6. Continue efforts to expand wildpopulations of rhinos throughtranslocations;

7. Develop human resource in wildlifemanagement with an emphasis onenhancing capacity to census,monitor and manage rhinopopulations; and

8. Support to maintain a captivepopulation capable of long-termviability to guard against anyunforeseen extinction of the wildpopulation.

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Goal

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Once the Greater One-hornedRhinoceros (hereafter referred toas rhino or rhinoceros) were

commonly ranging throughout thenorthern floodplain and nearby foothills ofthe Indian sub-continent between Indo-Myanmar border in the east and SindhuRiver basin, Pakistan in the west (Fig 1).Destruction of apropos habitats combinedwith poaching has led these animals to

limit themselves to a few isolatedpockets of protected areas of India andNepal. Today only about 2,480 rhinocerossurvive in the wild and about 136 incaptivity (IUCN 1997).

The rapid growth of human population hasattributed to the gradual elimination ofmany large mammals from their historicalrange. The chief reason being the loss of

2

Introduction

FIG 1: Asian Greater One-horned Rhinoceros - History and Present Distribution

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THE GREATER ONE-HORNED RHINOCEROS CONSERVATION ACTION PLAN FOR NEPAL 3

their prime habitat. In last few decades,Nepal witnessed a colossal loss in wildliferichness particularly large mammals dueto habitat deterioration. The conversion offorestland into other land use hasconstricted and fragmented wildlifehabitat eventually threatening the lifesupport system of many species.

In Nepal, the huge reduction in rhinopopulation is primarily ascribed to thedisappearance of most of the alluvialplain grasslands and massive poachingfor its commercially valued horns. Therhinoceros were confined to CNP until1980s. The government’s efforts forconserving rhinoceros through theestablishment of CNP, implementation ofbuffer zone program and translocation ofrhinos to other protected areas hasremarkably improved the prospect of

rhinoceros in Nepal. The population ofrhinoceros in CNP has increasedsignificantly and they are protectedfrom natural or any other disasters bycreating a second viable population inBNP and SWR.

By now three Terai protected areasnamely CNP, BNP and SWR containrhinoceros. Furthermore, small patchesof alluvial plains in those protectedareas face a danger that could changethe course of vegetation succession toa climax condition unsuitable for largemammals like rhino. Therefore, Teraiprotected areas can provide shelter torhinoceros in the long-term if suchareas are left undisturbed fromincreasing human interference andunplanned development programs.

The family Rhinoceratidae includesfive species of rhinocerosremaining in the world. The Greater

One-horned Rhinoceros Rhinocerosunicornis, Javan Rhinoceros Rhinocerossondaicus and Sumatran RhinocerosDicerorhinus sumatrensis are found onlyin South Asia and South East Asia whereas the White Rhinoceros Ceratotheriumsimum and Black Rhinoceros Dicerosbicornis now inhabit mainly in South and

Western Africa (Fig.2). Once abundant inAsia and Africa rhinoceros are nowbattling for their survival due to heavypoaching and destruction of suitablehabitats. Two rhinoceros recorded in early1990s in Indo-Pakistan border arereported to have been extinct. Despitejoint efforts between Bhutan and India,survival of a small population of rhinocerosliving along Indo-Bhutan border in Manasstill remains doubtful (Jnawali et.al 2000)

Background

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FIG 2: Historic Distribution and Current Number of Asian Rhinos

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In Nepal, rhinoceros population wasestimated at ca 1000 individuals until1950 in the Chitwan valley. The valleywas well protected by the then Ranarulers for sport hunting. The area was alsoprotected from outsiders since malariawas prevalent in the valley. Onlyindigenous communities like Tharus whowere known to be immune to malaria wereresiding in the valley. The impact of theirpresence on valley’s natural environmentwas negligible.

After the collapse of Rana regime in 1950and eradication of malaria during mid1950 Chitwan valley was opened foroutsiders for settlements. Hundreds ofthousand people from mid-hills wereattracted by highly fertile land in Terai andlarge chunks of wildlife habitats werecleared for human settlement, agriculturalexpansion and other developmentactivities. This not only destroyed naturalforest but also severely affected wildlifepopulation since illegal killing of wildanimals was prevalent as early as in mid1950s. Poaching of wild animals mainlyaffected large mammals includingrhinoceros. As a result, rhinoceros

population dropped down to less than100individuals during late1960s (Adhikari et.al 1999)

Realizing the need to halt the rapidlydeclining rhinoceros population, Nepalestablished “Gainda Gasti ”, an armedRhino Patrol Unit in 1961 and thendeclared the remaining prime rhinohabitats of about 544 sq. km along Rapti,Narayani and Reu rivers as CNP in 1973.The park was later extended toencompass a total area of 932 sq. km.and then listed as “World Heritage Site” in1984 for its high biological diversity. Now,Nepal’s protected area system coversover 19.42% of country’s area including 9national parks, 3 wildlife reserves, 3conservation areas, 1 hunting reserve andbuffer zones for 6 national parks and 3wildlife reserves (Fig. 3). Presently, threeof the five Terai protected areasencompassing an area of 3,526.50 sq.km. harbor 446 rhinoceros (Fig 4). TheGovernment of Nepal has streamlined thebiodiversity conservation program of thecountry and shown firm commitment forthe conservation of biological resourcesby approving Nepal Biodiversity Strategy

Some of the major and common conclusions of the PHVA process forvarious rhino species conditions

1. Any rhino population under 10 individuals is at high risk of extinction evenunder ideal conditions;

2. To maximize probability of survival under all kinds of identifiable risks,populations of 100 or populations that can be rapidly expanded to 100 ormore individuals, seems advisable;

3. To avoid the risks of having “all the eggs in one basket”, at least five ormore populations of 100 or more individuals are recommended for eachregional variety of rhino considered distinct enough to be conserved as aseparate taxon.

4. For long-term viability a total population of at least 2,000 to 3,000 rhino ofeach taxon seems highly desirable.

(Verbatim from Asian Rhinos, Status Survey and Conservation Action Plan)

THE GREATER ONE-HORNED RHINOCEROS CONSERVATION ACTION PLAN FOR NEPAL6

in 2002. The Ministry of Forests andSoil Conservation approved a 10 yearStrategic Plan of TAL in 2004 and itsImplementation Plan in 2006. Thisstrategic plan mainly covers the habitatsof mega fauna like rhinoceros.

After a successful effort of the DNPWCand its partners, declining population ofrhinoceros began to stabilize gradually.The increase in number of rhinocerossince late 1960s in Chitwan demonstratethat population can rebound vigorouslywhen sufficient habitat and protectionare provided. It provides an example ofa population that was almost in theverge of extinction while still maintaininghigh genetic diversity.

Eric Dinerstein and Gary McCracken(1990) suggested that the highheterozygosity is a consequence of thelarge population prior to 1950 and longgeneration time on average. The presentrhinoceros have retained 90% of theheterozygosity of the original populationgoing back to 1400 A.D. Given theaccelerating rate of extinction,endangered species like R. unicorniswhich were, until recently, common andwidespread, may yet retain a substantialproportion of their original heterozygosity.

The first translocation of this pachydermfrom CNP to BNP was done in 1986 andseveral translocations of rhinoceros wereconducted in subsequent years in order tocreate viable populations in BNP and

FIG 3: Map of Protected Areas of Nepal


SWR in an effort to establish a sub-population and further safeguard thespecies against natural calamities suchas disease, flooding, etc. Several studieson rhinoceros and their habitats havebeen conducted in the past years andmonitoring of translocated rhinoceros isregularly conducted in BNP and SWR.

In 1994, for the first time, DNPWC incollaboration with the King MahendraTrust for Nature Conservation and

Resources Nepal supported by WWFNepal launched a Count Rhino in CNPand estimated a maximum populationsize of minimum 466 individuals.Similarly, the DNPWC in collaborationwith KMTNC and WWF Nepal counted atotal of 612 rhinos in Nepal in 2000 (Fig.5).In 2005, a Rhino Count Program wasconducted by the DNPWC incollaboration with KMTNC and WWFNepal where 372 rhinos were recordedin CNP.

FIG 4: Map of Rhino Habitat in Terai Protected Areas

Of the total rhino population, 447individuals are in Nepal and ca1,649 is restricted in Kaziranga

National Park, Assam, India (AsianRhino Specialist Group Meeting 1999and DNPWC Report 2000). The studieshave revealed that the population hasincreased from merely less than onehundred individuals to an estimate of270-310 individuals in total by 1975(Laurie 1978). By 1988, the populationincreased to reach a total of 358rhinoceros (Dinerstein and Price 1991).

It was found that growth in rhino populationin CNP is 104 since 1994 (taking minimumdata of ’94 Census), which comes anannual increment of 3.8 %. Thetranslocated 14 rhinos were not included inthis census as well as 8 dead rhinos in2000/01were also not included. Thecensus number is encouraging in thesense that since 1995 nearly 99 rhinoswere recorded dead in Chitwan by variouscauses according to the DNPWC records.The rhinoceros populations of India andNepal are still in endangered list based onthe IUCN criteria (Table 1)

Current Statusand Distribution

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FIG 5: Population Trend of Rhinoceros in Nepal

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TABLE 1: Assessment of Asian Rhino Species by IUCN Red List Criteria

IUCN Criteria*

A. Population reduction

B. Extent of occurrence

C. Population estimate

D. Probability of extinction

Overall rating

Eastern populationAssam, West Bengal

VU

EN

VU

VU

EN

Western population Nepal

VU

EN

VU

VU

EN

Greater One-horned Rhinoceros**

*revised IUCN Categories and Criteria, approved by the 40th Meeting of the IUCN Council, 30 November 1994

EX = Extinct CR = Critically Endangered EN = Endangered VU = Vulnerable

**Asian Rhinos, AsRSG, IUCN, 1997

FIG 6: Rhino Population in CNP

In 2000, the DNPWC in collaboration withKMTNC and WWF Nepal has counted atotal of 544 rhinos in and around the CNPand 67 in BNP (DNPWC 2000). In 2005,the DNPWC in collaboration with KMTNCand WWF Nepal has counted a total of372 rhinos in and around the CNP

(DNPWC 2005, Fig.5). Among the directcounted 372 individuals in CNP; 262 wereadults, 42 sub-adults and 68 calves (Fig.6).Among 67 rhinos in Bardia; 38 wereadults, 20 sub-adults and 9 calves (Fig.7).Among 7 rhinos in SWR; 4 are adults, 1sub-adult and 2 calves (Fig 8). According

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TABLE 2: Population Estimates of Greater One-horned Rhinoceros in Nepal**

Name of Protected Area

Chitwan National Park

Bardia National Park

Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve

Total

Estimate Numberof Rhino

372

67

7

446

Habitat AvailabilityPresently/Potentially

1,682

1,295

305

3,282


Potential CarryingCapacity

500

300+

?


to AsRSG report of 1997, target rhinopopulation for Nepal is 800 individuals(Table 3) and the potential carryingcapacity of CNP for rhino is ca.500 but

TABLE 3: Overview of Current and Target Populations and Protected Areasfor Greater One-horned Rhinoceros

Country

Nepal

India

Asia

Greater One-horned Rhinoceros**


CurrentPopulation

446

~1,600

~2,212

TargetPopulation

800+

2,200+

3,000+

Current Number/Size km2 Areas

2/1,000*

9/2,000

10/3,000

Target Number/Size km2 Areas

2+/1,000

10/2,500

12/3,500

Remarks

*based on ~500

rhino pop.

this figure has already exceeded in 2000,however, drops down to 372 individual in2005 (Table 2).

FIG 8: Rhino Population in SWR

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FIG 7: Rhino Population in BNP

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W ith the establishment ofprotected areas andengagement of the Nepal

Army in the park protection, poachingwas brought under control for few years.From 1976 to 1983, poaching wasvirtually stopped in the park but from1984 poaching surged again, as poachersbecame familiar with the park patrollingsystem. About 20 rhinos were killedbetween 1984 to1991. In 1992, 18 rhinoswere killed in the Chitwan valley. A timelydecision was made to form Anti-poachingunits and to provide rewards to theinformants for controlling and combatingparticularly rhino poaching. The anti-poaching measure was effective tominimize the poaching.

Mortality in Chitwanand Bardia

Poaching Natural Poaching Natural

From May 1996 - 6 - - 6

1997 1 5 - 1 7

1998 4 24 1 - 29

1999 9 21 - 1 31

2000 12 27 1 5 45

2001 14 7 - 3 24

2002 40 17 2 3 62

2003 20 25 9 1 55

2004 8 12 2 1 23

Total 108 144 15 15 282

Mortality

Source: DNPWC Annual Reports

Year BNPCNP Total

However, from 1996, poaching activityincreased again in Chitwan valleyprobably due to political instability, lapsesin park patrolling, replacement ofexperienced APU staff, and the mergingof armed Gaida Gasti (rhino patrol) withthe Forest Guard. In 1990, the politicalsystem of the country changed affectingthe government mechanism to a greatextent. In 1993, the MFSC commissioneda working group comprising officials fromthe DNPWC, DoF, District Forest Officer,Chief Warden and Major from Nepal Armyto assess the poaching problem inChitwan and make recommendations foreffective conservation of rhinoceros. Theworking team made severalrecommendations including not reducing

TABLE 4: Annual Rhino Mortality in CNP and BNP

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the number of guard posts in Chitwanand Nawalparasi and strengthening theintelligence network etc. In 1996 and1997, a total of 12 rhinos were recordeddead in Chitwan valley of which onlyone was poached. The situation becameworse with loss of 269 rhinos of which122 were poached (45.3%) between1998 and 2004 (Table 4). Several rhinopoachers have been killed inencounters and number of persons hasbeen apprehended in rhino poaching.

Different methods like pit digging,poisoning, wire noose with heavy spearwere used in the past but now modernfirearm and electrocution techniquesare in use for killing rhinoceros.Maskey (1998) reported that 26.9% ofrhino was poached in the valley from1973 to 1998. The rhino mortality frompoaching is over 39% for last twoyears (2000 & 2001) which is higherthan for the period from 1973 to 1998by 12%.

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Rhino Habitat

All five species of rhinoceros aretrue herbivores. Asiatic rhino species prefer to reside in alluvial

flood-plain vegetation of sub-tropicalclimate where water and green grassesare available all year round. They are ofspecial interest for conservation for theirrole in maintaining the Terai biodiversity.Their phylogeny, ecology and nutritionalenergetic have evolved around thesegrassland ecosystems.

Increased numbers of rhinos are apparentwithin blocks of the suitable rhino habitatin Chitwan. Rhinos occur in highestdensities along the flood plain grasslandsand reverine forests bordering the Rapti,Narayani, Reu, and Dhungre riverssuggesting floodplain grasslands as thesingle most critical habitat dominated by4-6 m tall Saccharum spontaneum(Dinerstein and Price 1991). Grasslandsinterspersed with patches of riverineforests together make about 30% of thepark area and are composed ofSaccharum spp., Narenga spp., andThemeda spp. (Shrestha 1995). Due tothe flood and vegetation succession the

grassland may have substantiallydecreased. This grass species is thefundamental food resource of rhinoceroscomprising more than 60% of the animaldiet. Sal Shorea robusta forestassociated with species such asDillennia pentagyna, Syzigium cumini,Trijuga oleofera, Lagerstromia parviflora,Terminalia tomentosa, T. bellerica,Phyllanthus emblica comprise 70% ofthe park area and are seldom used byrhinoceros.

Inundation by regular flooding of thealluvial plains along major rivers createsfavorable condition for quick appearanceof sprouts and germination to maintainthe dominance of Saccharumspontaneum. Therefore the monsoonflood is very critical for maintaining rhinohabitat. Oxbow lakes and other openwater bodies are also very critical forrhino. Rhino spends about 8 hours/dayin wallows or streams during the periodof high humidity (August-September) butthey spend at least an hour/daywallowing in December and January(Laurie 1978).

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As rhinoceros populationincreased in CNP, those that live along the park border enter

nearby agricultural fields and raid crops.Besides, incidents of local harassmentwere also reported occasionally from thearea. This has created conflict betweenthe local communities inhabiting in thebuffer zone and conservation of newlyrevived rhinoceros population in CNP.

A founder population of 13 rhinos wasreintroduced from CNP to BNP in 1986.Most of the translocated femalesconceived shortly after they had beenreleased indicating their acceptance of thereleased habitat. In 1991, 25 rhinos weretranslocated to the Babai valley,northeastern part of BNP. The rhinocerospopulation in BNP increased to 45individuals by 1995, but population densityof rhinos in the park is still low (0.3animals/km2) compared to that of CNP(8-10 animals/km2). The translocation ofrhinos to BNP should bolster in creating aviable rhino population (Jnawali, 1995).

Furthermore to strengthen the rhinopopulation in BNP and as per therecommendations made by AsRSGmeeting 1999, Nepal has translocatedan additional batch of 4, 16, and 5rhinoceros to Babai valley, BNP in1999, 2000 and 2001 respectively.Four rhinoceros were translocated toSWR for the first time in November2000. At present SWR consists of7 individuals including two adult males,2 females and 1 sub-adult of unknownsex and 2 newly born calves ofunknown sex. DNPWC with the supportof the conservation partners hastranslocated 10 more rhinos to Babaivalley in March 2002 for the sake ofbuilding viable population in the area.Similarly in 2003, 10 rhinos weretranslocated to BNP from CNP. Inaddition, Nepal has provided 4 rhinosfrom CNP to Dudhwa National Park in1984 and over 24 rhinoceros todifferent zoos in the world for ex-situconservation of the species in thepast years.

Reintroduction ofRhinoceros

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Current Opportunities forRhino Conservation

W ildlife conservation in Nepalwas initiated with the majorfocus on the endangered

species protection and protected areaswere created basically to conserveendangered species such as rhinos andtigers. Most of these protected areas weremanaged with little emphasis on humandimension in protected area management inthe past. Overtime, protected areamanagement approach has changed fromprotective to participatory and from speciesto landscape conservation. Nepal hasalways been in lead in involving people inconservation and even sharing parkrevenue for local community developmentresiding in the buffer zone.

In 1993, the National Parks and WildlifeConservation Act was amended with theprovisions of Buffer Zone and sharing ofthe park revenue (30 - 50%) for communitydevelopment and conservation activities.The Buffer Zone Management Regulations2052 (1996) came into effect and bufferzones of CNP and BNP were declaredsubsequently. The buffer zones for SWRand PWR has been declared recently. Thebuffer zone development program mainlyfocused community participation inbiodiversity conservation and encouraginglocal institutions for socio-economicupliftment through various incomegeneration activities. All these protectedareas encompass rhino habitats and thusbuffer zones will ultimately provideadditional habitats to rhinoceros.

Around 2000 Users Groups, 53 UsersCommittees and 3 buffer zonedevelopment committees have beenformed in CNP, BNP and SWR covering65 Village Development Committees andover 4,00,000 populations. TheGovernment has disbursed over 220millions rupees (US$ 3.2 millions) forimplementing various conservation andcommunity development activities in thebuffer zones in last 6 years. SeveralBuffer Zone Community Forests havebeen handed over to local community forthe protection of the forests and meetingtheir daily needs of forest products.

Several projects are involved in bufferzone development programs. Few tomention are:• UNDP assisted PCP;• WWF supported TAL Program (prior

to this BICP and WETTREC);• UNDP/GEF/SNV/WWF supported

WTLBP;• KMTNC’s BCP, SCP, and TRCP

implemented by BCC with supportfrom UNDP/GEF;

• CARE Nepal supported Buffer ZoneDevelopment Program; and

• More recently UNDP/GEF/SNV/WWFsupported WTLCP has started in thewestern part of TAL.

A mid-term evaluation of this Action Planshould be made on the basis of the regularmonitoring of rhino populations and theirhabitats, and refined as necessary.

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PremiseTo transpire a scientific basis for rhinoconservation and management a long-term research program should be initiatedto assess numbers, population trend,ecological requirements, carryingcapacity, and people/rhino conflicts(DNPWC, 1993). Census of rhinopopulations is suggested in every 5 yearsto assess the population status andtrend. Besides, monitoring of therhinoceros on a regular basis will be inplace to support the management.

Considering the growth rate of 3.88% ofrhino population in Nepal, it is apparentthat the rhino population is likely toincrease with the availability of the

suitable habitats and protection.Floodplain grasslands and riverine forestsin CNP contain the highest density ofrhinoceros in Nepal. Floodplains in CNPand BNP are very dynamic and aredependent on the course of the rivers.Likewise, wetlands are very important forrhino to avoid heat stress and meetingnutritional requirements. Upkeep ofwetlands is equally important inmaintaining the flood plain grasslandsfor rhinoceros.

Similarly several prime rhino habitats inthe protected areas are taken over byunpalatable grass species, weeds(Pogostemon spp., Eupatorium spp.,Lantana camera, etc.), and tree species

Nepal’s Rhino ConservationAction Plan Framework

16

The Rhino Conservation Action Plan consists of in situ conservation of thespecies. The rhinoceros is of particular interest for its role in the maintenance ofTerai biodiversity in the country. Nepal’s protected areas are not large enough

especially for the conservation of mega animals that require large areas. Several otherfactors like poaching, illegal trade on rhino horn and habitat shrinkage has impeded theefforts of rhinoceros conservation. It is important to manage the protected areas with acomprehensive approach so that entire rhino population is conserved. Thus, this actionplan should be tied up with Protected Area management plans. The specific objectivesof the action plan are as follows:

O B J E C T I V E 1

Continue study on rhinoceros biology and their habitat, andestablish database with monitoring system

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such as Bombax ceiba, Dalbergia sissoo,Acacia catechu, etc. subsequentlymaking them less suitable for rhino.

Several studies suggest that at present,the rhino habitat in CNP is under utilizedand livestock grazing has rendered manyideal habitats literally unsuitable for rhino(Rhino Count 2000). This has led the foodcompetition between the livestock andrhino leading to the increased cropdepredation and risk of transmittingdisease. Since the park is divided intodifferent sectors, emphasis on sector-wisemonitoring of rhino population and theirhabitat should be given for costeffectiveness and time saving.

Output1.1 Updated rhino population estimate of

Nepal at five years interval1.1.1 Obtained sex and age ratio of

rhino1.1.2 Acquired population structure1.1.3 Recorded rhino mortality

1.2 Improved & defined rhino habitats1.2.1 Assessed carrying capacity of

CNP, BNP and SWR1.2.2 Controlled invasive and

unpalatable species of grasses,weeds and trees in rhinohabitats

1.2.3 Maintained wetlands andwaterholes

1.2.4 Regulated controlled burning1.2.5 Stopped livestock grazing in

rhino habitats within the parksand reserves

1.2.6 Studied impact of livestockgrazing in rhino habitats

1.3 Prioritized research need andestablished database1.3.1 Produced GIS maps of rhino

habitats

1.3.2 Identified and prioritizedresearch needs on rhinoceros

1.3.3 Conducted prioritized researchon rhinoceros

1.3.4 Documented research findingson rhinoceros

1.3.5 Established database at thefield level

1.3.6 Strengthened database at theDNPWC

1.3.7 Published and shared researchfindings on rhinoceros

1.3.8 Established linkages withresearch institutions in countryand abroad

Activities• Prioritize the research need on

rhinoceros• Conduct study to assess the carrying

capacity of the protected areas forrhinoceros

• Initiate GIS mapping of rhino habitatsin CNP, BNP and SWR

• Conduct rhino census at five yearsinterval

• Initiate study on rhino-elephantinterface in Babai valley in BNP

• Continue study and monitoring ofrhino and its habitat includinggrassland and riverine forest in CNP,BNP and SWR

• Initiate elimination of invasivespecies by uprooting weed and treespecies (Eg. Icharni Tappu, JayaMangala Ghol, Dumaria, Kachhuwani,Shukhibar, Devital and thegrasslands along the Narayani banksand Narayani islands in CNP, Babaivalley (in BNP) and SWR

• Introduce planting of indigenousgrass species preferred by rhino suchas Saccharum spontaneum

• Continue regular grass cutting,burning and uprooting of woodyperennials


• Improve wetlands through control oninvasive aquatic vegetation

• Restore important wallowing spots(like Jaya Mangala Ghol in CNP) byimproving the water supply andcontrolling drainage

• Develop waterholes and maintainwater levels in existing waterholes inPAs, such as Devital, Tamortal,Lamital in CNP and Ranital andSolgaudital in SWR.

• Maintain/construct firelines of at least2.5 m wide in the grassland

• Develop livestock grazing managementplans for each buffer zone

• Initiate environmental monitoring ofcritical habitats such as flood plaingrasslands in CNP, BNP and SWR

• Disseminate research findings throughseminar and workshop

• Establish database at the field level• Strengthen rhino database at the

DNPWC with updated information• Initiate developing linkages with

research institutions• Initiate studies on livestock and rhino

interface


PremiseRehabilitated Padampur VillageDevelopment Committee will provide ahabitat suitable to rhino and that willsustain increasing population of rhino inCNP. Similarly, rehabilitated easternsector of SWR will give more rhino habitatalong Chaudhar river as well as in othervacated areas. Similarly, if RambhoriBhata enclaves in PWR could betransformed, it will also provide an idealhabitat for rhinoceros.

Besides Padampur, there are six junglelodges and tented camps that occupysome of the prime rhino habitats insideCNP. For the long-term conservation theimpact of these facilities need to bestudied and relocated elsewhere in thebuffer zone if necessary. For sustainabletourism and regular inflow of money,timely attention should be taken asprecautionary measures. There is anurgent need to define limits of suchfacilities inside the park. The tourism inthe protected areas should be regulatedaccording to the tourism plan of therespective areas.

It is important to note that rhinos inhabitforest area in the buffer zones of CNPand BNP. The Barandabhar forest withBishajari Tal is particularly important forrhino conservation. Other potential rhinohabitats should also be explored. Thoseforests should be protected as a rhinohabitat and a wildlife corridor for linkingprotected areas with forests outsideprotected areas in the region. Similarly,

Hatisar to Kothiyaghat across KhataCorridor and South of Babai Bridge thatlies in the buffer zone of BNP are thepotential rhino habitats that need to beprotected. Certain manipulations will berequired in order to make a habitatsuitable for rhinoceros.

Output2.1 Rehabilitated Rambhori Bhata in PWR2.2 Protected priority potential rhino

habitats in protected areas2.3 Established and maintained forest

corridors2.4 Developed and implemented tourism

plans2.5 Developed and enforced tourism code

of conduct2.6 Conducted a detail study on the

impact of Jungle lodges of CNP

Activities• Initiate action for rehabilitation of

Rambhori Bhata in PWR• Initiate study on Old Padampur for

creating a suitable rhino habitat in CNP• Assess the carrying capacity of the

CNP in terms of number of tourists,tourist amenities and facilities

• Identify and restore potential forestcorridors

• Initiate studies and protect BishajariTal in CNP, forest from Hatisar toKothiyaghat across Khata Corridorand South of Babai Bridge of BNP,and Chaudhar River floodplain andKalikich Tal in SWR

• Develop and implement tourism codeof conduct in protected areas

O B J E C T I V E 2

Habitat expansion through rehabilitation/restoration ofidentified priority rhino habitats


PremiseThe first translocation of rhinoceros fromone protected area to other in Nepal wasinitiated in 1986 in order to create asecond viable population in the countryand protect the species from localextermination. So far 87 rhinoceros havebeen translocated from CNP to BNP in1986, 1991, 1999, 2000, 2002 and 2003.Of these 4 were translocated to SWR inNovember 2000. In this joint adventurousinitiatives of the DNPWC, KMTNC andWWF Nepal are providing technical andfinancial supports respectively.

Considering the historical range of rhino(all throughout Gangetic plain), potentialityof translocating some individuals to otherprotected areas should be explored.Nevertheless, considering the pastexperience, it is highly recommended thata detail study of the proposed site for thereintroduction be conducted prior toidentifying the most suitable sites fortranslocation. The study should includethe ecological aspect, and possible cropdamage and rhino-human interface issuesresulting from the translocated rhinopopulation. Some more rhino should beadded in BNP to create viable subpopulation of at least 100 individuals.Moreover, SWR will be the potential sitefor reintroduced third sub population inNepal where 7 rhinoceros reside in thereserve now.

Output3.1 Produced 5 year rhino translocation

plan3.2 Established at least viable rhino

populations in BNP and SWR3.3 Conducted studies prior to actual

translocation operation3.4 Continued monitoring of

translocated rhinoceros3.5 Produced rhino translocation

operation manual (technical) inEnglish and Nepali

3.6 Equipped translocation operationteam with medicine, equipment,radio collar, field gears andlogistics

Activities• Develop 5-year rhino translocation

plan• Initiate study prior to translocation

of rhinoceros both at the sourceand release site

• Purchase all necessary medicine,equipment, field gears and radiotelemetry equipment

• Support logistics and additionalstaff for monitoring

• Produce rhino translocation manual(technical) in English and Nepali

• Produce operation report aftertranslocation

• Continue monitoring of translocatedrhinos

O B J E C T I V E 3

Reintroduce rhinos to create at least viable population


O B J E C T I V E 4

Improve rhino-human relationship through buffer zonedevelopment and conservation education

PremiseLocal people’s support will be gained onlywhen they see the direct benefit fromwildlife conservation. Majority of the localpeople in the buffer zone are subsistencefarmers heavily depending upon the forestresources and they can not think ofconservation of wildlife if their lifesustaining system is disrupted. Livestockgrazing is increasingly putting pressureon the rhino population for food. Inaddition, this has posed a threat to thehealth of wildlife in general with a potentialrisk of transmission of disease. Incidenceof crop damage by rhino in the bufferzone of the park has been rising in recentyears and it is primarily attributed to theagricultural farming in former rhinohabitat.

Past efforts of fencing and constructingtrenches in order to control crop damagehave been very expensive to maintainand has become one of the major issuesof park and people dissension. There is alarge number of unproductive cattle thatare raised because of religious beliefsand for manure. Extension programsshould furnish alternatives to free rangingcattle grazing and encourage for tourismactivities through buffer zone developmentprograms.

A widespread conservation education isvital for disseminating information at alllevels about the importance of rhinoconservation and gaining people’s supportin conservation in the country. Theseprograms have been conducted incooperation with the buffer zoneinstitutions, schools, media, local NGOs,INGOs and other relevant organizations.

The programs should be designedaccording to the target groups andits theme.

Conservation education programs throughradio, TV, audio-visual, posters, papers,billboards, display and visitor center, etc.should be conducted both at local andnational levels. The program shouldcontain information on status of rhino,fines and punishments, rewards, CITESimplementation and other relevantinformation on wildlife conservation.

Output4.1 Harmonized park people relationships4.2 Enhanced participation of buffer zone

institutions in biodiversityconservation

4.3 Developed and implementedlivestock grazing management plan

4.4 Established veterinary facilities inbuffer zones

4.5 Developed alternative forest resourcebase in buffer zone for firewood andfodder

4.6 Involved more local people in tourismand income generation activities

4.7 Established community reliefmeasures for crop depredation

4.8 Established relief funds to supporthuman injury and loss of life

4.9 Improved information center andAudio-Visual programs

4.10 Produced printed publicity materialon rhino conservation

4.11 Established Eco-clubs in schools4.12 Established mobile conservation

education unit4.13 Organized various environmental

awareness programs


Activities• Design and organize audio-visual

programs such as video, slide show,power point to suit the targetaudience accordingly

• Design and publish printed materialslike brochure, leaflet, poster,booklets etc.

• Update information in display andvisitor center

• Establish/strengthen Eco-clubs inschools

• Organize interaction programs withmedia, local bodies, buffer zoneinstitutions, local NGOs and otherconcerned organizations

• Participate in different environmentalprograms organized locally, nationallyand internationally

• Perform different contests and rewardthe winners and contestants

• Publicize information throughdepartment’s conservation bulletinand local newspapers

• Establish mobile conservation unit atthe department

• Establish mini rhino museum in CNP,BNP and SWR

• Initiate various communitydevelopment programs (incomegeneration and alternative resourcedevelopment)

• Incorporate veterinary facilities inextension package to encourage localfarmers to rear improved livestockbreed and stall feedings

•· Develop extension program todiscourage farmers from raisingunproductive livestock

• Promote alternative energy sourcelike biogas and energy saving.

• Organize training in hotel/lodgemanagement, tour operators, andnature guides

• Encourage silvi-pastoral plantation inthe community land in the buffer zone

• Induce rotational livestock grazing incommunal grazing lands in buffer zone

• Initiate developing communitycompensation mechanism for cropdepredation

• Initiate/strengthen relief funds tosupport human injury and casualty

• Strengthen buffer zone institutionsthrough training and technicalsupport


O B J E C T I V E 5

Strengthen anti-poaching capability

PremiseIn the beginning of the parkestablishment, in addition to the armedRhino Patrol Guards, APUs wereestablished in cooperation with Flora andFauna Preservation Society to curb theescalating rhino poaching. The escalationin poaching is attributed to the highlypriced rhino horns in the SoutheastAsian markets.

Considering the ascending poachingactivity, APUs were constituted onceagain with the support of WWF Nepal andITNC. The strategy of the program is towork in close collaboration with localpeople who work as secret informants tothe park management in order to preventpoaching and apprehend poachers.Efficiency of these units is limited due toinadequacy of equipment such asvehicles, portable communicationequipment, and necessary firearms.The rhino poaching shall to be controlledby strengthening the Anti Poachingcapability by assigning adequate staff,fund, equipment, and providing training.There is a need to institutionalize APUsfor providing legal base and itssustainability.

The park provides awards to theinformants up to the amount ofRs. 50,000 (US$ 700). The penalty forpoaching rhino varies from 5 to 15 yearsof imprisonment with a fine of Rs. 50,000to Rs.1,00,000 (US$ 700 to US$ 1,400)or both depending upon the magnitude ofthe offence committed. Despite severepenalties and hard efforts for constantsurveillance occasional poaching is still

reported. So cooperation of local peoplesliving in the buffer zone and adjacent tothe protected areas is the key toachieving success in combating againstpoaching. However, cooperation fromthe local people can be expected onlywhen they see some direct benefit tothem from the protection of wildlifespecies. The amendment of NationalParks and Wildlife Conservation Act(1973, Amend 1993) empowers todeclare buffer zone and channel 30 to50% of the Park revenue in the localcommunity development. This programwill certainly help develop some positiveattitudes among local community towardbiodiversity conservation and increasecommunity surveillance in protectingendangered wildlife.

It is also necessary to impose stringenttrade restrictions and surveillance at themajor custom posts in Nepal. TheCITES Implementation Workshopssimilar to the one held in Kathmandu in1995 should be held frequently to makevarious agencies such as Police,Custom, Forest, Public Administration,Journalists, etc. understand about CITESand share information. It is also neededto have a bilateral agreement throughtransboundary meeting with neighboringcounterparts to curb poaching activitiesand the illegal trade of endangeredwildlife. A bill for national legislation onCITES implementation has been draftedand submitted to the Government in theprocess of getting approval from theparliament. A joint effort of all concernedparties is required for successfulimplementation of CITES in Nepal.


Output5.1 Enacted a separate CITES legislation

in Nepal5.2 Institutionalized anti-poaching units5.3 Strengthened anti-poaching

capabilities in all protected areas5.4 Organized workshops, coordination

meetings and training to allconcerned agencies

5.5 Publicized the importance of wildlifeconservation

5.6 Prepared disposal plan for rhino hornstock piles

Activities• Expedite the approval process of

CITES bill• Initiate process for institutionalizing

anti-poaching units and rewardsystem

• Identify possibilities for financiallysustaining the anti-poachinginitiatives

• Equip anti-poaching units with allnecessary field gears andequipment

• Organize workshops andcoordination meetings at local,national and transboundary levels

• Organize training to all concernedagencies at different levels

• Widespread the conservationeducation and out-reach program

• Prepare annual progress report ofanti-poaching efforts

• Review the current anti-poachingefforts

• Develop infrastructure and buildings• Prepare disposal plan for rhino horn

stock piles.


O B J E C T I V E 6

Build institutional capacity

PremiseTo increase the efficiency of parkpersonnel in rhino conservation; specifictraining such as habitat improvement,population monitoring, anti-poaching,conservation education and extension,orphan rearing, etc. should be provided onthe regular basis for enhancing skill andcapability of the park staff. Theinstitutional supports need to be providedto the department as well as to the parksincluding Hatisar in enhancing theircapacity in the management of protectedareas. Hatisar and elephants are vital forconducting research on wildlife speciesparticularly large mammals and carryingout rhino translocation successfully.Similarly newly formed buffer zoneinstitutions should be supported for theircapacity building through training.

It has been noticed that every year thepark has been rearing one or two rescuedorphan rhino calves from the wild. Suchcalves are either abandoned by themother or injured by some predators. Aspopulation of rhinoceros is growing, theincidents of rhino injuries from fighting orby other causes will be increasing in thedays to come. Therefore, there is a needto establish an orphanage/or treatmentcenter in each Terai protected areawhere possible.

The stockpiles of rhino horns collectedfrom natural death of animals or seizedfrom the poachers or traders haveincreased both in Park Headquarters inKasara, CNP and Tikauli, a training centerunder the District Forest Office, Chitwan.There is a problem of storing those rhino

horns properly and concerned authoritiesare worried about the security of thestockpiles. There is no set mechanismfor disposal of such valuable horns.There is a chance of limited use of thosehorns as an educational material bydisplaying them in museums. Anappropriate mechanism should bedeveloped for wise use of rhino hornsin future.

Output6.1 Assessed training needs of the

department and buffer zoneinstitutions

6.2 Provided training on regular basis tostaff at all levels

6.3 Established orphanage center in eachprotected area

6.4 Improved storing of rhino hornstockpiles

6.5 Developed mechanism for wise useof rhino horns as an educationalmaterial

6.6 Strengthened Hatisar managementfor rhino research and monitoring

Activities• Assess training needs of the

department• Appraise training needs of buffer

zone institutions or community basedorganizations

• Provide training on regular basis tostaff as per identified needs

• Maintain/develop infrastructure &buildings of Hatisar

• Provide materials (rope, tripol, daddi,khurji etc.) on regular basis

• Regularize training of baby elephantsin the breeding center


• Furnish training to buffer zonecommunities as per identified needs

• Initiate study on the feasibility ofestablishing rhino orphanage center ineach protected area

• Establish orphanage center as perthe report

• Review the present storing system ofstockpiles

• Improve storing of rhino hornstockpiles as per therecommendations

• Develop mechanism for wise use ofrhino horns as an educationalmaterial

• Provide training on tanning andpreserving stockpiles

PremiseRhinoceros has always been in highdemand from zoos and research stationsof several countries. A number of rhinoshad been provided to various organizationsin the past but later it became a matter ofconcern for lacking transparency of thedeal. Nepal has presented more than 24rhinos to the people and the governmentof several countries as a token of cordialfriendship between the countries. Prior toCount Rhino 1994 and Rhino Count 2000,no accurate information on rhinopopulation in CNP was available andhence it was difficult to accept anyrequest for rhinos from suchorganizations. The Rhino Count 2000reveals that the rhino population isincreasing both in CNP and BNP. Soproviding few rhinos to internationalorganizations strictly for research purposeis unlikely to have adverse impact on the

O B J E C T I V E 7

Limit transfer of rhinos for ex-situ conservation from wildpopulations

source population. Funding received fromsuch exchange should be strictly used tothe rhino conservation initiatives as perthe Rhino Action Plan maintaining thetransparency of the deal.

Output7.1 Developed criteria for transfer of

rhinos from wild population for ex-situconservation

7.2 Established mechanism formobilization of Rhino ConservationTrust Funds made available from thetransfer

Activities• Initiate developing criteria for transfer

of rhinos for ex-situ conservation• Initiate developing mechanism for

mobilizing funds made available fromthe transfer

• Set translocation operation schedules


PremiseThe successful revival of rhinoceros inNepal shows the firm commitment of thegovernment in biodiversity conservationand the effective implementation of theprograms. Several conservation partnersfrom local level to national, regional andinternational levels have been involvedconstantly to accomplish this exemplaryinitiative in conservation in the country.However, protected area management isnot just a species management; it hasbecome a holistic and multi-dimensionalapproach covering wildlife as well ashuman dimension. So there is a need toestablish close cooperation among theline agencies, organizations, local bodiesand research institutions for long-termconservation of rhinoceros or wildlife intotality. DoF is responsible for managingforest outside protected areas whererhinoceros shares its habitat, so closecooperation with such institution isessential for conserving wildlife and theirhabitats. Similarly, there are several otherorganizations whose support is necessaryfor controlling poaching and illegal tradeon wildlife and their products.

Unlimited demands for rhino horns ininternational market persistently posinggreat threat to the very survival ofrhinoceros in the wild. So Nepal ispromoting transboundary cooperation withher neighboring countries India and Chinafor the protection of wild animals on eitherside of the country and controlling illegaltrade on wildlife and their body parts.

Similarly, a regional and internationalcollaboration will be always necessary foreffective conservation of rhinoceros in therange states. Nepal is a signatory to

international conventions such as CITES,CBD, World Heritage, Ramsar, and GTF.Nepal had series of coordination meetingswith the counterparts in India and Chinaboth at central and field levels. Suchmeetings have become supplementary inwildlife conservation and controlling illegaltrades on wildlife and their body parts.

Output8.1 Enhanced transboundary cooperation

with neighboring countries8.2 Shared information on protected area

management and illegal trade on wildlife8.3 Increased international supports in

wildlife conservation8.4 Established a network of coordination

and cooperation among concernedparties

8.5 Shared information on conservationefforts

Activities• Formalize transboundary cooperation

initiatives• Organize transboundary cooperation

meetings with the neighboring countries• Conduct exchange visits or meetings at

field level• Initiate conservation programs

complementary to each other• Share relevant information on

conservation and illegal trade on wildlife• Publicize Nepal’s successful efforts in

wildlife conservation• Establish a network with concerned

parties for coordination and cooperation• Disseminate information on

conservation initiatives• Organize periodic coordination

meetings with concerned parties• Conduct periodic interaction program on

conservation efforts

O B J E C T I V E 8

Strengthen national, transboundary, regional andinternational collaboration


PremiseNepal is one of the least developedcountries and has set aside over19.42% of its total land to protectedarea systems. Since conservationrequires continuous efforts and largesum of funds for meeting the challengesin maintaining the protected areasystems at par to the internationalstandard, some sustainable sources offunding should be developed for meetingthe incremental cost in implementing therhino action plan. An estimate of US$ 2.9millions will be required for implementingrhino action plan over the 5 years period.There is a need to develop proposals toimplement various programs as specifiedin the action plan and solicit it to thedifferent potential conservation partners.

Output9.1 Ensured sustainable funding for

wildlife conservation9.2 Developed proposals for funding to

implement the recommendedprograms by the rhino action plan

9.3 Implemented programs as per therhino action plan

Activities• Develop proposals and solicit to the

potential conservation partners forfunding

• Organize workshops/meetings withconservation partners

• Organize field visits to the conservationpartners to show the accomplishments

• Solicit supports from internationalorganizations

O B J E C T I V E 9

Ensure sustainable funding to implement rhino conservationaction plan


Five years Action Plan Program (Activities and Indicative Budget)The total budget to implement five years action plan is estimated at US$ 2.90 millions.Of this US$ 1.47 millions has been set-aside for CNP, US$ 0.833 millions for BNP andUS$ 0.587 millions for SWR. The major portion (30%) of the total budget is for upkeeping the anti-poaching operations.

Chitwan National Park

10,000

30,000

10,000

30,000

5,00,000

24,000

50,000

50,000

70,000

50,000

1,00,000

15,000

50,000

15,000

25,000

45,000

1,00,000

25,000

40,000

25,000

40,000

1,00,000

1,00,000

14,79,000

Activities

Preparation of rhino translocation Plan

Translocation

Preparation of translocation manual

Census

Anti-poaching

Additional guard posts

Population study

Habitat study

Habitat improvement

Rhino orphanage/orphan care taking

Regular monitoring

Waterhole construction/maintenance

Storage of stock piles

Medication of wounded animals

Database establishment/update

Livestock grazing control

Hatisar management

Development tourism code of conduct

Conservation education/materials

Logistics/equipment/drugs

Training/workshop/seminar

Relief funds

Other unseen costs

Sub-total

No/Unit

1

15 animals

1

1

10 teams

3

500 ha

3

2

1

3

1

IndicativeBudget $

Year I Year II Year III Year IV Year V


Bardia National Park

Activities

Census

Anti-poaching


Population study

Habitat study

Habitat improvement

Rhino orphanage/orphan care taking

Regular monitoring






Hatisar management





Relief funds

Other unseen costs

Sub-total

No/Unit

1

6 teams

6

500 ha

3

1

3

1


20,000

2,00,000

48,000

45,000

40,000

70,000

30,000

75,000

10,000

15,000

10,000

15,000

25,000

25,000

25,000

25,000

25,000

30,000

50,000

50,000

8,33,000

IndicativeBudget $


Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve

Activities

Census

Anti-poaching


Population study

Habitat study

Habitat improvement

Rhino orphanage/care taking

Regular monitoring






Hatisar management





Relief funds

Other unseen costs

Sub-total

No/Unit

1

4 teams

4

200 ha

1

3

1

3

1


15,000

2,00,000

32,000

10,000

10,000

40,000

10,000

50,000

10,000

5,000

5,000

15,000

25,000

25,000

25,000

15,000

15,000

25,000

30,000

25,000

5,87,000

IndicativeBudget $

32

Natural History of Rhino

Appendix-1

The Greater One-horned Rhinoceros(Rhinoceros unicornis) oncecommonly wandered throughout

the northern floodplain and nearbyfoothills of the Indian sub-continentbetween Indo-Myanmar border in the eastand Sindhu River basin, Pakistan in thewest. The species now exist in somesmall population units situated in northernIndia and Nepal. The rhinoceros prefer toinhabit the alluvial floodplain vegetation ofsub-tropical climate where water andgreen grasses are available all yearround. They live on a diet of floodplaingrasses, tree saplings, shrubs, aquaticplants, herbs and fruits. Annual monsoonfloods altered the spatial distribution ofthese successional grasslands butmaintained prime grazing habitat and highrhinoceros densities. The study hasrevealed that a rhinoceros eats the fruitsand seeds of at least 30 species of plants(Dinerstein and Price 1991).

Populations of rhinoceros have decreaseddrastically over the last 400 years as aresult of land clearing and poaching(Blanford 1988). Once abundant,rhinoceros are now battling for theirsurvival due to heavy poaching anddestruction of suitable habitats. Thisspecies is less threatened than the otherAsian species. With the increase in theuse of modern firearms, the farfetchedvalue attached to rhinoceros horn, and

the superstitious beliefs put on themagical power of the blood, urine andother parts have exerted tremendouspressure on the survival of this species.

Rhinoceros populations have increasedand rhinos have been successfullytranslocated to re-establish populations inareas where the species had beenexterminated in Nepal. The totalestimated number of Greater One-hornedRhinoceros in wild is about 2,000individuals and about 135 individuals incaptivity in the world.

All the living rhinoceroses are included ina single family. The rhinoceros mayexceed 2,000 kg in weight and havemassive build because of their thick andsolid bones. The skin is either thinly cladwith hair or naked and the heavy hide inplaces in thrown into deep folds. The skinof rhinoceros is divided into great shieldsby heavy folds before and behind theshoulders and in front of the thighs. Thefold in front of the shoulders is notcontinued right across the back, adistinctive character of this rhinoceros.On the flanks, shoulders, andhindquarters, the skin is studded withmasses of rounded tubercles. With itsgrotesque build, long boat-shaped head,its folds of armor, and its tuberculatedhide.

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The nasal bones are extended to serveas s support for a single horn and thehorn is formed of a closely matted massof horny fiber emerging from the skin. Thehorn has no connection with skull,although a boss of bone in the skull mayserve as its foundation and growsthroughout life and if lost are reproduced.Greater One-horned Rhinoceros is one ofthe largest of all existing rhinoceroses.A male may reach over 180 cm at theshoulder with a girth of 335 cm behind thewithers. It is smaller than the AfricanWhite rhinoceros but larger than theAfrican Black rhinoceros.

The rhinoceros is solitary though severalmay occupy the same patch of forest. InNepal, during the monsoon, theyfrequently enter into farmlands. Theyhave particular places for dropping itsexcreta; so mounds accumulate inplaces. In approaching these spots arhinoceros walks backwards and falls aneasy victim to poachers. Breeding takesplace all the time of the year andgestation period is about 16 months. Theyoung at birth are about 105 cm in lengthand 60 kg in weight. The rhinoceros hasamong the lowest reproductive ratesknown for mammals. Inter-calving intervalis about 4 years, and females first give

birth as early as about 6.5 years.Females nurse babies to the age of 2years, but by the age of 2 months thecalves begin supplementing milk intakewith grass shoots, and by 10 months theygraze and browse freely. The rhino cowsguard young calves intimately; calvesbecome separated from their motherswhen cows are chased by breeding bullsand occasionally during long grazingbouts (Laurie 1982).

Many legends and beliefs are attached tothis animal and its horn was generallybelieved to have peculiar medical virtues.In Nepal, the flesh and the blood of therhinoceros is considered highlyacceptable to the manes. High casteHindus used to offer libation of theanimal’s blood after entering itsdisemboweled body. The urine isconsidered antiseptic and is hung in avessel at the principal door as a charmagainst ghosts, evil spirits, and diseases.Topical application of rhino urine is saidto cure ear infection and, taken internally,it cures asthma and tuberculosis. Rhinodung is smoked in a pipe to cure fever,and a powder from the ground-up horn issold as an aphrodisiac. The beliefsconnected with the rhinoceros areprevalent in varying forms.

34

Literature Cited

Adhikari, T. R., N. M. B. Pradhan, and N. Poudel.(1999). A Strategy to combatpoaching in Chitwan Valley. A report presented to Department of National Parksand Wildlife Conservation, Nepal. Un publ.

Bajimaya,S., J. Baral, R. Chand, R. Rana and S.M.Nepal.(1993). A Report onConservation of Rhinoceros in and around Royal Chitwan National Park. Submittedto Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation, Babarmahal, Kathmandu, Nepal.

Blandford, W.T.(1988). The Fauna of British India including Ceylon & Burma:Mammalia. Taylor & Francis, London

Dinerstein, E., and G.F. McCracken.(1990). Endangered Greater One-hornedRhinoceros Carry High Levels of Genetic Variation. Smithsonian/Nepal TeraiEcology Project, Conservation and Research Center, National Zoological Park,Front Royal, Virginia 22630.

Dinerstein, E., and L. Price.(1991). Demography and habitat use by Greater One-horned Rhinoceros in Nepal. Journal of Wildlife Management. 55: 401-411.

DNPWC.(1993). Strategies of Rhino Conservation in Nepal. Department of NationalParks and Wildlife Conservation. 15 pp. Unpubl.

DNPWC.(2000). Rhino Count 2000 initial report. Department of National Parks andWildlife Conservation. Unpubl.

DNPWC.(2005). Annual Reports. Departments of National Parks and WildlifeConservation. Babarmahal, Kathmandu, Nepal.

IUCN.(1997). Status Survey and Conservation Action Plan:Asian Rhinos. Edited byThomas J.Foose, and Nico van Strien. IUCN/SSC Asian Rhino Specialist Group.Gland, Switzerland.

Jnawali, S. R.(1995). Population Ecology of Greater One-horned Rhinoceros(Rhinoceros unicornis) with Particular Emphasis on Habitat Preference, FoodEcology and Ranging Behavior of a Reintroduced population in Royal BardiaNational Park in Low land Nepal. Doctor Scientiarum Thesis, Department ofBiology and Nature Conservation, Agricultural University of Norway, Aas, Norway.

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Jnawali, S.R., S. Bhatta, and N.P. Dhakal.(2000). Socio economic impact ofGreater One horned rhinoceros in Royal Bardia National Park, Western Lowland,Nepal. Bardia Conservation Program, Bardia, Nepal.

Laurie, W.A.(1978). The Ecology of the Greater One-horned Rhinoceros.Unpublished. Ph. D. Dissertation University of Cambridge. 450 pp.

Laurie, W.A.(1982). Behavioral Ecology of the Greater One-horned Rhinoceros(Rhinoceros unicornis). Journal of Zoological Society of London. 196: 307-341.

Maskey, T.M.(1998). Sustaining Anti-poaching Operation & Illegal Trade Control.Report series No. 37, WWF Nepal Program, Kathmandu.

MFSC.(2002). Nepal Biodiversity Strategy. His Majesty’s Government of NepalMinistry of Forest and Soil Conservation, Singhdarbar, Kathmandu, Nepal

MFSC.(2004). Strategic Plan (2004-2014) Broad Strategy Document Terai ArcLandscape- Nepal. HMGN/MFSC, Singhdarbar, Kathmandu, Nepal.

Pradhan, N.(2000). Rhino conservation in Nepal. A paper presented in CaptiveBreeding specialist Group Meeting, Central Zoo, Kathmandu. Unpubl.

Prater, SH.(1971). The Book of Indian Animals. Bombay Natural History Society.Third (Revised) Edition, Hornbill House, Bombay, India.

Shrestha, M.(1995). Rhino Conservation Strategy. Department of National Parks andWildlife Conservation, Nepal. Unpubl.

Yonzon, P.(1994). Count Rhino 1994. Report Series No. 10, WWF Nepal Program,Kathmandu.

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