AGGREGATION PATTERN OF KASHMIR MARKHOR (CAPRA FALCONERI CASHMERIEINSIS) POPULATION AT CHITRAL GOL NATIONAL PARK, PAKISTAN

Background: Grouping behavior in large mammals is influenced by various environmental and biological factors, including habitat type and seasonal variations. Understanding these dynamics is critical for the conservation of species like the Kashmir Markhor (Capra falconeri cashmeriensis), an endangered ungulate inhabiting rugged terrains. Despite its ecological significance, limited information exists on the seasonal and habitat-specific aggregation patterns of this species, particularly in regions like Chitral Gol National Park, Pakistan. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of seasonal and habitat variations on the group size of Kashmir Markhor, providing insights into their behavioral ecology and informing conservation strategies. Methods: Long-term observational data were collected from April 2019 to March 2021 in Chitral Gol National Park. Surveys were conducted biweekly using binoculars at randomly selected transects and vantage points. Seasonal variations in group size were analyzed using ANOVA, with a significance level of 0.05. Habitat types were categorized based on dominant vegetation, and differences in group size across habitats were assessed. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS (version 22). Grouping criteria followed established methodologies, defining groups as individuals within a 75-meter radius. Results: Markhor group size varied significantly across seasons (p < 0.0001). The largest groups were observed during winter (mean = 13.73) and the rut season (mean = 15.17), while the smallest groups were recorded in autumn (mean = 8.71) and the non-rut season (mean = 7.92). Female Markhor consistently formed larger groups than males, with significant seasonal variations (p < 0.00001). Habitat type had no significant impact on group size (p = 0.979), with the largest groups found in Chilghoza Forest (mean = 11) and the smallest in Mixed Woodland (mean = 9.57). Conclusion: Seasonal variations significantly influenced the grouping patterns of Kashmir Markhor, with larger groups forming during resource-scarce and reproductive periods. Habitat types had minimal impact, emphasizing the importance of incorporating seasonal dynamics into conservation efforts.