Swamp Deer Census Begins in Shuklaphanta National Park

Kanchanpur. The census of swamp deer (Barasingha) has commenced today in Shuklaphanta National Park. The count is being conducted through the joint participation of the park office, the Nepal Army, and partner organizations including the National Trust for Nature Conservation. A total of 35 personnel have been mobilized for this task.

According to the park's information officer, Purushottam Wagle, the census has begun using the 'head count' method. Arrangements have been made to conduct the count from observation towers, by using vehicles along firelines, and with the assistance of elephants.

Binoculars, cameras, telescopes, and drones will be utilized for the census, while three elephants have been deployed in remote areas inaccessible by foot. Two vehicles are operating along the firelines, and three technical personnel have been stationed at each of the four observation towers.

The counting is taking place from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM and from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The census, which started today, will continue until Baisakh 12. Information officer Wagle stated that the process aims to determine the exact number of swamp deer, study their habitat conditions, and evaluate their food sources and potential risks.

The Shuklaphanta grassland, located about 24 kilometers south of the park's main office in Majhgaun, is considered the largest grassland in Nepal. Spanning approximately 34 square kilometers, this area is home to one of the world's largest herds of swamp deer. In the census conducted in 2081 BS, 2,182 swamp deer were recorded.

According to park ranger Prayas KC, the population of swamp deer in the park is satisfactory. In recent years, they have begun to be spotted in areas beyond the main grassland. "This is a positive sign for conservation," he said, adding, "The census has been expanded beyond the main grassland to other potential areas where swamp deer are found."

Swamp deer are a primary prey species for tigers. It is reported that the tiger population in the park is also increasing due to the availability of sufficient food and proper habitat management.