Survey and census of the hoolock gibbon in West Garo Hills, Northeast India

Abstract

During a long-term study on the hoolock gibbon in Northeast India, a detailed survey was made in West Garo Hills District of the Meghalaya, India from July 1985 to March 1987. Approximately 5,075 km2 of the area was covered. Groups and individuals were counted in 32 localities (812 km2). Interestingly only 1,395 ha was the actual forest area occupied by these gibbons. Forty-two family groups and four floating individuals of gibbons made up the total count. Of these the adult males and females comprised of nearly 67% while the sub-adults, juveniles, and infants were 6%, 12%, and 15%, respectively. Each family group's territory ranged from 14 to 55 ha. Of the 32 localities only 6 had more than one family group. The present paper deals with the diminishing habitats for these gibbons. The discussion is based on the available small forest patches throughout the district (a common feature for the whole of Northeast India) surrounded by bare hills due to shifting cultivation. A strategy for conservation is also outlined.