The current status and distribution of <i>Rucervus eldii eldii</i> (McClelland, 1842), with respect to human-wildlife conflict, competitive exclusion and new immerging threats

The Sangai Deer, Rucervus eldii eldii (McClelland, 1842), of Keibul Lamjao National Park (KLNP), Manipur, was thought to be extinct by 1951. Still, during an IUCN survey in 1953, a small surviving population was discovered. Human activities such as building the Itahi Barrage extensively altered the park’s water systems and are considered the primary reason for the declining population. However, further investigation unfolded certain new threats, which were earlier disregarded. These new threats included habitat loss linked with the shrinkage of Phumdis, Hog deer competition, climate change, poaching, and increased biomass exploitation. From 1996 to 2013, the recovery of Sangai populations was rather considerable, probably due to conservation efforts and breeding schemes. This study aims to view historical contributory factors that led to the population meltdown, examine contemporary events, and identify the likelihood of a factor becoming a new terror for their continued survival.