Distribution and population status of Sambar Rusa unicolor (Mammalia: Cetartiodactyla: Cervidae) from Aravalli landscape with a note on its first record from Aravalli Hills of Haryana, India

Abstract

Sambar is the most widespread deer in Southeastern Asia and is listed as Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List. In this communication, we report the results of an extensive literature review and camera trapping to present the historic and current distribution of Sambar in Aravalli Mountain region. The records state that the species is nearly exterminated in the protected areas of Gujarat Aravalli and bordering areas of Rajasthan, although a sizable population still survives in northern and central Aravalli (Pali-Rajasamand-Udaipur & Alwar-Sawai Madhopur region). We also report the first record of Sambar from the Aravalli Hill region of Haryana.