Biodiversity in Garh Panchkot and surroundings (Purulia, West Bengal) of residential and migratory land vertebrates with special reference to endangered species

This study examined land vertebrate biodiversity in Garh Panchkot (Panchet Hill) and surrounding forest areas in Purulia, West Bengal. Opportunistic field surveys and direct specimen collection were used to assess the abundance of endangered and vulnerable species. Previous studies recorded 106 land vertebrate species in the region, with the highest diversity in the class Aves and the lowest abundance in the class Amphibia. Endangered species recorded in the current study included Peafowl Pavo cristatus, Sloth Bear Melursus ursinus, Common Langur Semnopithecus entellus, Rhesus Macaque Macaca mulatta, Indian Rock Python Python molurus, and Fishing cat Prionailurus viverrinus. Also observed were Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus and Striped Hyaena Hyaena hyaena classed as “Near Threatened,” and White-rumped Vulture Gyps bengalensis designated “Critically Endangered”. An analysis of likely threats to vulnerable species identified rapid urbanization, accompanied by increased air, water and noise pollution. The results of this study will be useful in establishing spatiotemporal distribution patterns of land vertebrates and especially threatened species, aiding efforts to promote bio-conservation and sustainable development.