The Nisarganubhav 2026 (Machan Census) carried out in Pench National Park and Umred Paoni Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary has highlighted a rich and thriving wildlife ecosystem in the region. Conducted during Buddha Purnima, the survey focused on observing animals at waterholes to evaluate herbivore populations and overall forest health.
A total of 76 machans were installed across different forest ranges, with around 120 volunteers participating from across the country. While volunteers monitored buffer areas, trained forest officials handled observations in core zones to maintain accuracy in sensitive habitats.
The census was supervised by Field Director Rameshkumar and coordinated by Deputy Director Akshay Gajbhiye. Initial reports recorded 2,764 wildlife sightings, with herbivores forming the majority—an indicator of a strong prey base for carnivores. The survey also documented 11 tiger sightings, 16 leopards, and more than 40 wild dogs, suggesting a stable predator population.
Among herbivores, sightings included over 1,000 spotted deer, 425 sambar, and more than 500 gaur. Other species observed were nilgai, wild boar, sloth bear, barking deer, porcupine, pangolin, and reptiles like pythons and monitor lizards. Birdlife such as peacocks, eagles, owls, and jungle fowl was also recorded in good numbers.
Officials noted that the results reflect a balanced prey-predator relationship, strong biodiversity, and healthy habitat conditions, even during peak summer. Buffer areas like Nagalwadi and Paoni also showed promising wildlife activity, emphasizing their role in conservation and ecological connectivity.
