Nutrients richness in soil and in some common favourite food species of Cheetal deer (Axis axis) and Sambar deer (Cervus unicolor) in Corbett National Park Uttarakhand India

Soil is the only source for fulfilment of nutrient requirement of plants in a forest (natural ecosystem). Macro and micro Nutrients present in the soil are available to the plants only because no external fertilizers are used in the forest. In this study the analysis of soil for its pH (soil acidity), key elements (organic Carbon & P, K) and secondary elements (S), with micronutrients (Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn) is done in monsoon season and autumn season. In monsoon season the soil is slightly acidic and in autumn season soil changes to slightly alkaline. The essential nutrients are present in medium to higher level for plants growth. The micronutrients are present in medium level in acidic soil while micronutrients are in low level in alkaline soil. The nutrients analysis (protein, Calcium and NPK) of some favourite food species of Cheetal and Sambar deer i.e., Shisham, Jujube, Kush grass and Narkul grass is done. The nutrients like Protein, Calcium with NPK is present in good amount in these species. So the nutrient rich soil of Corbett Park is helpful to make plants more nutritious, which directly affects the life of Cheetal deer (Axis axis) and Sambar deer(Cervus unicolor). Plants nutrients are necessary in structural growth, body-weight, physical activities, in running, in pregnancy, in lactation etc. of Cheetal and Sambar deer.