Assessment of suitable habitat of near threatened striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena Linnaeus, 1758) using Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System

Abstract

Application of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System as a tool has assumed immense significance in habitat suitability modelling for various wildlife species. Models are now widely used in wildlife management and conservation ecology. This study evaluated the habitat suitability for striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena Linnaeus 1758) in Gir National Park and Sanctuary, in Gujarat province of India. The satellite imagery and topographic maps were used to generate spatial data pertaining to different variables viz., forest type, forest density, measures of proximity to potential source of disturbances and water. A Digital Terrain Model was used to create slope, aspect, elevation spatial data layer. The locations of striped hyena presence were used in a binomial multiple logistic regression model for striped hyena habitat suitability analysis. Results indicate that 78.51% of Gir area is highly suitable to suitable for the striped hyena. The study predicted striped hyena habitat with high accuracy. The model output can easily be understood by wildlife managers and experts. The results, besides having great practical importance would serve as baseline for future management planning for the conservation of this globally near threatened species.