The number has risen to 250 at Vallanadu sanctuary

The blackbuck population has seen a rise at the Vallanadu Blackbuck Sanctuary, according to a census conducted by the Forest department.

The number of blackbucks has risen to 250 from 230 last year, said forest officials after conducting a two-day survey that came to a close on Sunday.

A team of 75 consisting of Forest department officials, led by Forest Ranger S. Vimal Kumar, students of Agricultural College and Research Institute, Killikulam and members of National Troopers for Conservation of Nature conducted the census, on the instructions of the District Forest Officer.

The members conducted the survey using line transect sampling at the sanctuary, situated in the Srivaikuntam taluk and spread across 1641 hectares.

Mr. Vimal Kumar said that around 50 spotted deer, 35 Sambar deer were also found. The numbers have seen an overall rise of 1-2%. Further, the number of jackal, porcupine, hares, anteater and several other species were also assessed.

He said that the number of blackbucks may have risen due to factors like increased awareness among people and habitat improvement measures. The people have been reporting incidents of animals in danger to forest officials immediately, he said.

He said that 12 water troughs with artificial irrigation have been set up as blackbucks may go outside in search of water during droughts. These are fed using borewells, solar-powered motors and oil engines, while some are being fed by water tankers. Further, grasslands have been created across 40 hectares of land for providing food.