SHREYAS VIJAY
CONSERVATIONIST BIOLOGIST FELINOLOGIST
Caracal Conservation And Research Project.
Over the course of his studies, Shreyas has delved deep into the intricacies of caracal behaviour and ecology for the past six years, allowing him to become a true expert in the field. Through his meticulous efforts, he has successfully accumulated a database of over 250 caracal sightings and developed comprehensive study maps. Notably, his master's thesis sheds valuable light on the identification of suitable habitats for caracals in western India.
Given the unique management requirements of this species, Shreyas firmly believes that effective conservation actions are imperative. By establishing the Caracal Conservation and Research Project (CCARP), he has taken proactive steps to advance our understanding and enhance the preservation of these remarkable felines.
The Caracal Conservation and Research Project (CCARP), launched in 2020, is committed to the preservation of the enigmatic Asiatic caracal and its native habitat within India. This initiative was born out of the realization that the population of these feline creatures, both in the wild and in captivity, has dwindled to critically low numbers. Alarmingly, the importance of the caracal remains largely unrecognized within the broader Indian zoological community. CCARP has embarked on a mission to comprehensively investigate the behavioral patterns, ecological dynamics, and geographic distribution of this species, initiating its efforts within one of the two key strongholds in India, the western state of Gujarat.
Moreover, CCARP's research endeavors extend towards the examination of how caracals navigate the challenges posed by contemporary urbanization and the resulting habitat degradation. The project seeks to shed light on the remarkable adaptability of these creatures within the rapidly changing modern environment.
Phase I
In the initial phase (Phase-I) of the Caracal Conservation And Research Project (CCARP), the primary objective was the identification of a suitable study area within the Indian subcontinent. This process involved a comprehensive approach, commencing with an extensive literature survey, followed by a series of baseline surveys. The overarching goal of these surveys was to gain a deep understanding of the diverse habitats prevalent in the selected region.
During this investigative phase, a substantial volume of data was meticulously documented, comprising 187 wildlife sighting records, 23 scientific papers, 22 reference books, and 34 artistic representations, such as paintings. Furthermore, the application of geo-informatics played a pivotal role in the analysis of land-use and land-cover patterns within potential study sites.
Ultimately, after careful consideration and evaluation, Kachchh, located in the state of Gujarat, was chosen as the ideal initiation point for the CCARP project. To facilitate this decision, a collaborative effort was initiated in partnership with the state forest department and local communities.
Subsequently, a reconnaissance survey was conducted within the expansive landscape of Kachchh. This region encompasses approximately 45,000 square kilometers, featuring a wide array of habitats. In particular, 2,200 square kilometres of fragmented habitat pockets were subjected to an exhaustive survey. The focus of this survey encompassed an assessment of prey populations and the quantification of vegetation attributes, including abundance, density, diversity, and composition.
In summary, Phase-I of CCARP followed a rigorous scientific methodology that involved comprehensive literature analysis, field surveys, data collection, and the utilization of advanced geo-informatics tools to identify Kachchh, Gujarat, as the ideal study area. Subsequent reconnaissance surveys honed in on specific habitat pockets, enabling an in-depth analysis of prey populations and vegetation characteristics. This systematic approach laid the foundation for the subsequent phases of the project, facilitating a scientific understanding of carnivore conservation in the region.
Phase II
In Phase-II of the Caracal Conservation And Research Project (CCARP), the focus shifted to the implementation of occupancy modelling techniques to assess the status of species within the selected study area, particularly with regard to species presence/absence and distribution. This phase aimed to capture how these patterns changed over time.
To achieve this, a systematic approach was adopted. A total of 78 grids, each measuring 2x2 square kilometres, were established across the expansive 2,200 square kilometres of the study area in Kachchh, Gujarat. Within each grid, camera traps were strategically placed using random sampling methods. These cameras were positioned either at random locations within the grid, along frequently used wildlife trails, or at waterholes, with the objective of capturing wildlife activity. An indirect sampling method was involved to identify signs of the target animal, such as pug marks and scats. When these signs were discovered, their GPS coordinates were meticulously recorded on the grid. This strategic approach allowed camera traps to be placed in proximity to these signs, increasing the likelihood of capturing the elusive caracal on camera.
Each camera was operational for a period of 7 days before being relocated to a different position within the same grid. This rotation of camera trap locations aimed to maximize the chances of capturing wildlife movements and behaviors within each grid. In total, this phase involved 65 trap nights of data collection.
The primary goal of Phase-II was to identify the presence of the caracal species within the habitats that were initially selected during Phase-I. Remarkably, out of the 78 grids, only three grids managed to capture images of the elusive caracal during this 65-trap-night period.
Additionally a multifaceted approach was employed to gather additional information regarding caracal presence and interactions within the study area. This approach included the utilization of qualitative research methods, specifically interviews and questionnaire surveys with local residents, as well as indirect interviews with school students from neighboring villages.
To enhance our understanding of caracal sightings and local perceptions, short face-to-face interviews were conducted with members of the local community. These interviews followed an open-ended and semi-structured questionnaire format, allowing for a flexible exploration of participants' experiences and knowledge regarding caracals in their surroundings.
Furthermore, a targeted initiative was undertaken to engage with school students from four distinct villages located in the proximity of our designated study grids. In a classroom setting, indirect interviews were conducted with these students. This educational approach served a dual purpose: first, to gather valuable information about any caracal sightings or encounters that these students or their communities might have had, and second, to raise awareness and impart knowledge about caracals and their significance in the local ecosystem.
This outreach effort not only contributed to our research by augmenting the dataset with insights from local residents and students but also played a critical role in fostering community engagement and environmental awareness. By involving the local population in the research process, Phase-II of CCARP established a bridge between scientific inquiry and community participation, enriching the project's scope and impact.
In Phase-II, nocturnal vehicle surveys were also conducted on a regular basis, totaling a minimum of four times a week, across our designated study grids. These surveys were primarily aimed at monitoring roads and highways within the study area for caracal presence and activities.
During these surveys, an intriguing behavioral observation emerged concerning small carnivorous species, including the jungle cat, desert cat, foxes and mongooses. It was noted that these animals exhibited a novel behavior in response to passing vehicles. Specifically, they opportunistically scavenged on insects and reptiles that had been unfortunate victims of roadkill, taking advantage of this newfound food source. Shreyas, prime researcher of the project, postulated that this behavior might be driven by the scarcity of food resources in the desert ecosystem, where the ability to access easily available food with lower energy expenditure could significantly enhance the survival prospects of these species within these semi-desert dry habitats.
The night-time road surveys served a dual purpose. First, they were intended to detect caracals either feeding on road-killed prey or crossing roads within our study grids. Second, they presented the possibility of encountering deceased caracals as potential victims of road accidents, shedding light on the impact of road infrastructure on the caracal population within the region.
It's noteworthy that the entire operation was conducted under the direct supervision of the Chief Conservator of Forests in Bhuj, ensuring the highest level of oversight and coordination. Additionally, it's important to mention that the equipment and human resources used for Phase-II were provided by the forest department, implying that they held the data rights for this phase.
With the confirmation of caracal presence in these three specific habitats, Phase-III of CCARP will expand its focus to consider these two locations as primary study areas. Moreover, the forests surrounding these areas will also be taken into consideration, potentially providing a more comprehensive understanding of caracal ecology and conservation in the region. This progression underscores the scientific and systematic approach taken in each phase of the CCARP project.
Overall, this project exemplifies a scientific and systematic approach, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between research teams, local communities, and governmental agencies to advance our knowledge of wildlife and contribute to their conservation in the semi-arid landscapes of Kachchh, Gujarat.
Note: Phase-II received complete financial support from the Gujarat Forest State Department, ensuring the successful execution of the project during this phase.
Phase III
In Phase III of CCARP the primary objective is to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the caracal population within the three previously identified habitats and the surrounding forested areas. Phase III represents a pivotal stage in the project, characterized by a refined and innovative approach to caracal conservation, spearheaded by Shreyas, an experienced researcher who has accumulated valuable insights through the earlier phases of the project and his broader exploration of caracal ecology, behavior, and distribution.
Drawing from his extensive experience in Phases I and II, as well as insights gained from studying caracals through international collaborations, notably the Urban Caracal Project in South Africa (led by Dr. Laurel Serieys) and the Environmental Agency (EAD) in Abu Dhabi (under the guidance of Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri), Shreyas has developed an enhanced camera trapping model tailored specifically for capturing caracals in their natural habitat.
This new approach would represent a significant advancement in the field of wildlife monitoring. It is characterised by an innovative camera trapping methodology designed to optimise the detection and documentation of caracal individuals. Shreyas's model incorporates a synthesis of lessons learned from previous phases of CCARP resulting in a highly effective tool for assessing the Indian populations.
Phase III's is putting emphasis on precise population counting and the introduction of this improved camera trapping model underscores the project's commitment to rigorous scientific methods and its dedication to advancing the understanding and conservation of caracals in the context of the semi-arid landscapes of Kachchh, Gujarat.
Note: Phase III is presently undergoing the process of securing grant approvals and is poised to commence shortly.
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1. Space - To - Event Model
The Space to Event Modeling (STE) technique serves as a density estimator, assessing the encounter rate between animals and cameras. Unlike methods reliant on individually marked animals, STE determines animal density based on the area sampled before detection on camera, providing insights into animal movement within the landscape in real space and time. In an effort to enhance detection probability for caracals, the model underwent refinement. Rather than deploying a single camera per grid, a triangular formation of three cameras, equidistant from each other, was implemented. Despite a shortage of camera traps, a strategy was devised whereby cameras were relocated every five days to adjacent grids in a clockwise cycle across the study area, ensuring comprehensive monitoring and coverage. This modification resulted in an 86% increase in detection rate and facilitated the identification of an active corridor linking two study areas.
Project Advisors
Throughout the various phases of the project, Shreyas received invaluable support from experts in the scientific community. These experienced advisors played a pivotal role in offering specific guidance and direction on conservation issues, indirectly contributing to the project's success. Their expertise and mentorship have been instrumental in guiding Shreyas and the research team in navigating the complex landscape of caracal ecology and conservation, ensuring that the project remained on the right path.
CT Members
Throughout the project, Shreyas received invaluable support from dedicated Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) who, despite being physically distant, played a vital role in guiding our research. Their expertise in various integrated fields has been instrumental in ensuring the project's success. They have offered specific guidance, direction, and insights that have significantly contributed to our project's progress. Their commitment and knowledge as SMEs have been indispensable in navigating the complexities of the research, highlighting the importance of their role in our team.