375 Indian bison estimated in Papikonda National Park; feasibility study for reintroduction in Nagarjuna Srisailam Tiger Reserve underway.

375 Indian bison (gaur) are estimated to inhabit Papikonda National Park and nearby forests, as per a three-month survey by the Andhra Pradesh Forest Department. The department is now considering reintroducing the Indian bison into the Nagarjuna Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR) by moving some from areas where they are already present. The decision will depend on a feasibility study conducted with the Wildlife Institute of India.