Bark Stripping by Sambar Cervus unicolor Kerr., in Gir forest, Gujarat

During Summer when the grasses become scant it has been recorded that 'Sambar' (Cervus unicolor Kerr.) strip the bark of trees especially the following - Bauhinia racemosa Lam., Terminalia bellerica Roxb., Balanites roxburghii Planch., and Randia brandisii Gamble. The reason for selecting these trees for bark stripping is not clear may be the choice resides in the better taste of the preferred trees. The percentage of protein and carbobydrates were found high during dry season in the bark. Bark stripping by Sambar also damages the trees because it facilitates the attack of tree by insects and fungi.