Rising out of the Lantana Destruction

[Shyamala Kumar]

The forests of Bandipur has been totally destroyed by lantana.Huge bamboo clumps have been taken over by lantana bushes which now seem to be reaching for the sky.There seem to be no live bamboo left in Bandipur. May 2015 evening.Nikon 7100+150-600mm 1/320s ISO400 FL150mm F/8.

[Saktipada Panigrahi]

This large Stag carries fine symmetric antler, brow tine is also well developed. Nice capture.Thanks for sharing. SaktiWild

[Mrudul Godbole]

Lovely antlers. Lantana is a big problem in majority of the national parks in South India (Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Muthumalai, Bandipur and Nagarhole tiger reserves). It does not allow the growth of other indigenous species of trees (bamboo as you have mentioned) or even grass under its thick canopy. Causing a dearth of food for herbivores :(.

Not sure if total eradication of the plant is possible :(, unless the forest department takes some serious measures to remove it. Thanks for sharing.

[Sabyasachi Patra]

Lovely stag. Slightly more contrast would strengthen the image. The Forest Department instead of digging waterholes, should engage in uprooting and burning the lantana. When this process is repeated, the lantana can be eradicated. Unfortunately, this is a strenuous job and needs a planned and continuous effort which is not the forte of the forest department.