Barahasinghe census begins in Shuklaphanta National Park
Kanchanpur: The counting of Barahasinghes (swamp deers) has begun in Shuklaphanta National Park from today. The exercise is being carried out with the joint participation of the Park Office, Nepal Army, and the National Nature Conservation Trust, with 35 personnel mobilized for the task.
According to the park’s information officer Purushottam Wagle, the counting is being conducted using the ‘head count’ method. Observations are being carried out from scaffolding structures, along firelines using vehicles, and with the assistance of Barahasinghes.
Binoculars, cameras, telescopes, and drones are being used for the census. Three Barahasinghes have been mobilized to access remote and difficult areas. Additionally, two vehicles and three technical personnel have been deployed across four scaffoldings along the fireline.
The counting is being conducted from 6:00 am to 9:00 am and from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The census, which began today, will continue until April 12. Information Officer Wagle stated that the exercise aims to determine the number of Barahasinghes, study habitat conditions, and assess food availability and potential risks.
Shuklaphanta grassland, located about 24 kilometers south of the park’s Majhagaun main office, is considered the largest grassland in Nepal. Spanning approximately 34 square kilometers, it is home to the world’s largest herd of Barahasinghes. In the census conducted in 2081 BS, a total of 2,182 bison were recorded.
According to park ranger Prayas KC, the number of bison in the park is satisfactory. In recent years, Barahasinghes have begun appearing beyond the main grassland area. “This is a positive sign from a conservation perspective,” he said. “The census has been expanded beyond grasslands to other areas where bison are likely to be found.”
Barahasinghes serve as a primary prey species for tigers, and officials note that the increasing number of tigers in the park is linked to adequate food availability and effective habitat management.