Conserving Biodiversity Outside Protected Areas: Analysis of a Potential Wildlife Corridor in Chittoor District,andhra Pradesh, India

Abstract

This study analyzes the potential of establishing a biodiversity conservation corridor in Chittoor district, Andhra Pradesh, located in southern India. More specifically, the focus is on the area between the Rayala Elephant Reserve and the S. V. National Park. Using a combination of methods to assess the feasibility of conservation in this portion of the Eastern Ghats, the study focuses on biogeographic and socioeconomic factors. The study specifically analyzes the spatial configuration of land use/land cover through the calculation of landscape metrics using Fragstats. The interplay of socioeconomic variables influencing forest cover in the district is analyzed using an OLS regression model. Thus, based on the identification of different scales of intervention and legal frameworks, the study provides conservation recommendations for a biodiversity conservation corridor in Chittoor district. The OLS regression model explains 75% of the variation in area covered by forests in Chittoor district. While the landscape metrics calculated, show a fragmented landscape albeit one that is contiguous across the various forest classes in the district. Thus, it is possible to infer that the land use /land cover is at a stage where conservation efforts are essential to restore the habitat for species affected by fragmentation. Based on these findings and the criteria for biodiversity conservation corridors a conversation priority zone was selected between the Rayala Elephant Reserve and SV National Park. Two potential linkages are identified within this zone and assessed using multiple criteria. Consequently, the study provides conservation recommendations based on both biodiversity considerations and socioeconomic conditions in the district.