Habitat Use and Spatial Distribution of the Indian Chevrotain (Moschiola indica) in the Buffer Zone of Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: A Case Study from Kuvempu University Campus, Shivamogga, Karnataka

Abstract

The Indian chevrotain (Moschiola indica) is a cryptic and inadequately researched ungulate that plays a crucial role in forest ecosystems, which are increasingly threatened by habitat fragmentation. This study's objective is to confirm the species' presence, assess its habitat use, analyse the distribution and identify associated threats within a modified human habitation. The research was carried out at the Kuvempu University campus, located in the buffer zone of the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary in the Western Ghats from January to June 2025. A non-invasive, multifaceted approach was employed, utilizing motion-activated infrared camera traps set up across three forest sites for a continuous duration of six months, supplemented by indirect sign surveys for pellets and tracks, as well as opportunistic sightings. The study established that M. indica persists in the area, with the highest detections observed in microhabitats with dense bamboo thickets and minimal disturbances. Detections peaked in microhabitats with dense bamboo thickets and low human disturbance, showing overall frequency rate of 75%. March recorded the highest encounter rate with 57 encounters among the study months, whereas June had the lowest with 17. Other ungulates like spotted deer, sambar deer, barking deer and wild boar dominated the area with 38% of overall sightings. A heat map was created using the gathered coordinates to determine the differences in the density of mouse deer across the study area. The survey recorded a varied sympatric herbivore community along with the predators, encompassing other species living in the study area. Nevertheless, the research revealed notable dangers, especially the existence of stray dogs closes to wildlife areas. These results highlight the ecological importance of the university campus as a viable sanctuary for the Indian chevrotain beyond conventional protected zones.