Abstract

Habitat utilisation by larger mammals in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary was studied during the years 1992 - 1995. Vegetation of the sanctuary is composed of tropical dry deciduous forest, dry deciduous scrub and dry tropical riverine forest. Most of the larger mammals (twenty seven species) found in Kerala were recorded from the sanctuary. High density of elephant was observed during the summer months. No similar increase in the density was found in the case of other herbivores. Dry deciduous forest anddry deciduous scrub showed equal density of herbivores. No substantial difference in the availability of fodder was observed among the areas. Width of riverine vegetation which is the main habitat of the grizzled giant squirrel is thin on Kerala side along the bank of Chinnar river