The effects of climate and land use change on the potential distribution and nesting habitat of the Lesser Adjutant in Nepal

Climate change and land use change pose a threat to the world’s biodiversity and have significant impacts on the geographic distribution and composition of many bird species,but little is known about how they affect threatened large-sized waterbird species that rely on agricultural landscapes.To address this gap,we investigated how climate and land use changes influence the distribution and nesting habitats of the globally vulnerable Lesser Adjutant(Leptoptilos javanicus) in Nepal.Between 2012 and 2023,we collected distribution data from 24 districts and nesting site information from 18 districts.In a nation-wide breeding survey conducted in 2020,we documented a total of 581 fledglings from 346 nests in 109 colonies.The ensemble model predicted a current potential distribution of 15%(21,637 km2) and a potential nesting habitat of 13%(19,651 km2) for the species in Nepal.The highest predicted current suitable distribution and nesting habitat was in Madhesh Province,while none was predicted in Karnali Province.The majority of this predicted distributional and nesting habitat falls on agricultural landscapes(>70%).Our model showed a likely range expansion of up to 15%(21,573 km2) for the distribution and up to 12%(17,482 km2) for the nesting habitat under SSP5-8.5 scenarios for the 2070s.The range expansion is expected to occur mainly within the current distribution and breeding range(Tarai and some regions of Siwalk),particularly in Lumbini and Sudurpashchim provinces,and extend to the northern portions(Siwalik and Mid-hill regions) in other provinces.However,the current Protected Areas and Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas are inadequate for providing optimal habitats for the species.Although the model suggests range expansion,the use of such novel habitats is primarily contingent on the availability and protection of large-sized trees(particularly Bombax ceiba,observed in 65% of colonies) in agricultural regions where nesting occurs.Therefore,our research suggests that agricultural landscapes should be prioritized in management plans for the conservation of the Lesser Adjutant in Nepal.

Patterns,Causes and Perceptions of Human-Large Carnivore Conflict in the Chitwan National Park,Nepal

One of the major management problems in and around protected areas is the intensifying conflict between local people and wildlife,especially large carnivores.Livestock depredation and human fatalities caused by attacks of carnivores are found to be serious obstacles in conflict management.This study aims to explore the patterns,costs,causes and perceptions of human large carnivore conflict in the Nawalpur area of Chitwan National Park.The patterns of livestock loss and human casualties due to large carnivores(Panthera tigris and Panthera pardus)were analysed using the secondary data reported to Chitwan National Park from 2001 to 2019.To understand the people’s perception towards carnivores and wildlife conservation,150 victim respondents were asked,with one household selected from each grid.During 19-year study period,a total of 521 incidents caused by large carnivores were reported,which included 33 human casualties and 488 livestock depredations.Tiger was responsible for the maximum conflict incidents in Nawalpur.The total relief provided for human deaths and injuries was US$17524.41,whereas US$13702.18 was used to compensate for livestock depredation in the Nawalpur area by authorities of the Chitwan National Park.More than 64%of the respondents liked the presence of carnivores in their area and had a positive attitude toward the conservation of large carnivores,even though the carnivores were responsible for livestock depredation and human injury and death.People’s satisfaction with the relief scheme provided by the government depended on ethnicity,gender,age class,occupation,education,insurance,and livestock ownership,but they believed the scheme was not effective.Hence,an effective relief scheme and awareness about the process of relief funding should be conducted in conflict areas.Conducting awareness programs for local communities about large carnivores,their behavior,and preparing predator-proof corrals would be helpful in minimizing conflict in the study area.