Pre-Monsoon Habitat Preference and Spatial Overlap Between Blue Sheep (Pseudois nayaur) and Livestock in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Nepal

Abstract

Blue sheep are crucial to the Himalayan high-altitude ecosystems, but their habitat preferences are not well understood. Hence, this study investigated its pre-monsoon habitat preference and spatial overlap with livestock in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Nepal. Altogether, 126 plots were laid to sample the signs of blue sheep, vegetation, and habitat parameters. The species was found at elevations of 3651–4348 m, with a preference for sub-alpine and alpine grasslands (3800–4200 meters) on south-facing slopes of 10°–30°, within 300 m of water bodies. It favored areas with crown coverage of < 25% and ground coverage of > 50%. Preferred vegetation included shrubs like Rhododendron lepidotum and grasses from Cyperaceae, such as Kobresia and Carex species. There was a significant habitat overlap between blue sheep and livestock, along with the major threats including grazing, fire, poaching, snaring, and human interference. Management plans should address these issues to sustain the species.

Keywords

Bharal / conflict / Cyperaceae / Naur / trophy hunting

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2025 The Author(s). Wildlife Letters published by Northeast Forestry University and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.