Evaluation of spatial and habitat use overlap between Kashmir markhor Capra falconeri cashmiriensis and livestock: implications for conservation in northwestern Himalaya

We explored spatial and habitat use overlap between the Kashmir markhor Capra falconeri cashmiriensis and livestock from March 2022 to February 2023 in the Kazinag National Park and other adjacent protected areas. This contiguous protected landscape is known to harbor the last viable population of the Kashmir markhor in the Indian Himalayan region. A total of 19 trails and nine vantage points were surveyed monthly to record direct and indirect evidences of the markhor. Geospatial data like Land Use Land Cover (LULC) and Digital Elevation Model (DEM) were used to classify habitat types and topographic categories. Habitat parameters like altitude, slope, and aspect used by markhor and livestock were quantified and compared with geospatial data. Markhor primarily utilized higher altitudes (2,600–3,200 m a.s.l.), steeper slopes (>60°) and rocky cliffs, whereas livestock mostly occurred at lower elevations (2,200–2,800 m a.s.l.) and preferred gentler slopes (<40°). A spatial overlap of 26.67 % was observed between the two groups. Statistical analyses confirmed significant differences in habitat use between markhor and livestock. To ensure the long-term survival of the markhor in the region, we recommend regulated grazing and community-led zoning to restrict livestock access in critical habitats through active engagement with pastoralist communities.