Smooth Otter Report

INTRODUCTION Otters belonging to the order Carnivora of class Mammalia, are semi-aquatic members of the family Mustelidae which also includes weasels, martens, polecats, badgers, skunks, grisons and minks. Otters are placed in the sub-family Lutrinae (Khan W. A. et al. ,2010). Genus Lutrogale ;Smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) (Ogamba E. N. & Abowei J. F. N. ,2012) ( Figure 1) . The smooth otter is the largest otter in Southeast Asia that comment otter. It was named for its shorter, smoother coat than that of other otters with appears velvety and shiny.This otter is monogamous and usually seen – round in small family groups of 4-6 members comprising a pair and their offspring from breeding seasons. It has a more rounded heads and a hairless nose compared to other otters. It also has a tail that is more flattened, in contrast to the more rounded tails of other species and measures 60% of its body length. Otters dependent on the monsoon rains breed between August and December. Gestation period is 61-65 days. They give birth to 2 to 5 cuns per litter.The young are born and raised in burrow near the water. Smooth Otters may hunt as a team either at night or in the daytime. They capture their prey with mouth, but their strong, webbed feet with sharp claws are dexterous enough to retrieve and manipulate objects. Their food likes fish, frog, prawn and crab. Besides, smooth-coated otter are excellent aquatic adaptation. It is possible to introduce to each other at all age; it is infinitely more successful when the otters are young (IUCN/SSC, 2008). Hartley R. 2011 had mentioned that as a social animal, the smooth-coated otter lives in family groups consisting of a male, dominant female and cubs. They are a proficient and ready swimmer. Besides, they also have the usual humped otter gait on the land, and can move quite rapidly . It is possible that there are no smooth otters currently in captivity in zoos likes in Zoo Taiping or wildlife parks. Since they are noisy, extrovert and tolerant of humans, adapting well to zoo life, this is surprising (Wright L. C, 2010). [pic] Scientific classification | |Kingdom: |Animalia | |Phylum: |Chordata | |Class: |Mammalia | |Order: |Carnivora | |Family: |Mustelidae | |Subfamily: |Lutrinae | |Genus: |Lutrogale | |Species: |L. perspicillata | LITERATURE REVIEWS Characteristics Smooth coated otter is nocturnal mammal otter and adapted to a semi-aquatic mode of life with flattened head, thick muscular tail, smooth and dense pelage and comparatively large paws that are webbed between digits (Roberts, 1997 ; Khan W. A. et al. ,2010). Webbing between all digits but, more extensive on the hind feet. The claws are sharp and probably aid in gripping.The hind feet are generally larger than the fore and the hind legs are longer leading to the typical hump-backed gait when traveling across land supported by Smith J. R. , 2008. The hair structure of the Lutrinae has been analysed to see if the different s pecies could be identified using hair characteristics and also to determine if the hair characteristics have an adaptive value or are influenced by the phylogeny of the group (Kuhn, Rachel A. & Wilfried M. ,2010). Habitat Otter sites varied significantly from non-otter sites, and comprised of loosely packed sand and rock, and lacked hard-packed sand, stone, gravel, vegetation and canopy cover (Shenoy K. , Varma S. & Devi Prasad K. V. , 2006).The more natural the surroundings the better so a substrate of grass, soil, pebbles, non abrasive sand (not sharp sand), and mulch as opposed to concrete will be beneficial to the otter group. If the pond is artificial and not filtrated it must be cleaned weekly. Fresh drinking water must be supplied for each day in a clean, non- spillable, disinfected container. The warmer the water the more these tropical otters swim. An ideal temperature is about 80 to 85 ° F (26. 6 – 29. 4 ° C). Pools can be constructed of many different materials such as plastic liners, concrete, gunnite or a natural pool dug out to the appropriate depth (IUCN/SSC, 2008). Behavior Smooth-coated otters are strong swimmers (Lariviere S. & Hwang Y. T. ,2005).In short, it is likely that otters undoubtedly store enough oxygen in the lungs, blood and muscles for a typical dive but experience bradycardia when pushed as a result of fear or necessity (Smith J. R. , 2008). Although otters enjoy and spend a lot of time in water they also require plenty of dry land for resting, grooming, digging and foraging (IUCN/SSC, 2008). Food and feeding habits The selection of prey by the smooth-coated otter in response to the variations in abundance of fish (Asghar Nawab & Syed Ainul Hussain, 2012 ). Smooth-coated otter is a top carnivore of wetlands and feeds mainly (up to 96%) upon fish (Khan W. A. et al. ,2010). Surprising, Goldthorpe et al. 2010, reported that a smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) was observed and photographed attacking and killing a water monitor lizard (Varanus salvator) in a small pond at the Forestry Research Institute, Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur. Smooth-coated otter attacking and killing such a large animal became the targets of repeated â€Å"tail-nipping† by the otters. The river otter has few natural predators because of its strength, sharp teeth, aggressiveness when attacked, and aquatic habits (Saunders, D. A. 1988). Communication According to Duplaix,1980 and Maxwell,1960;Wright L. C. , 2010;are two good sources for information about this species vocalizations, particularly the latter. Duplaix speaks of harsh nasal snorts and whines, and says they are a noisy species, with a varied repertoire of discrete social sounds.This is backed up by Maxwell, 1960, account of Mijbil, his pet smooth-coated otter of the Iraqi subspecies. Maxwell describes the call note as a short, anxious, penetrating but not loud chirp. The query is Ha! in a loud, harsh whisper. Furthermore, Maxwell, 1960, also describes a c ontinuum through from the chirp to a musical bubbling interspersed with chirps to a high, snarling caterwaul or scream/wail preceding attack. The main form of non-vocal communication in this species is spraint, which is produced frequently. The animals create large, very smelly communal latrines at prominent sites, such as large flat rocks, comparatively high up river banks compared to sympatric Eurasian Otters.In communication with other otters in the family group, otters seem to use their mouths as the main means of non-vocal communication, mouthing, nipping and gripping each other (Wright L. C. , 2010). Breeding Khan W. A. et al. ,2010, stated that this animal form strong monogamous pairs; males are larger but still females dominate the pair. Breeding may occur throughout the year, gestation period varies from 61-63 days and young ones at their birth are covered with fur and their eyes do not open until up to 10 days. The weaning takes almost 130 days and the young ones start tak ing fish at the age of three months. Liter size of 2-4 cubs is normal and rarely five but recently six cubs have been observed in Sindh. TreatThe smooth-coated otters considered to be â€Å"Vulnerable† due to an inferred future population decline caused by habitat loss and exploitation (Hussain et al. , 2008). Facing extremely high risk of extinction due to multitude of detrimental factors (Muhammad Rais et al. ,2009). Khan W. A. et al. , 2010, reported that habitat fragmentation, otter-human conflicts, hunting for skins and lack of awareness among general public are main threats to the species. METHODOLOGY Post monitoring and data collection. (General activity) I studied 3 smooth-coated otter ( Lutrogale perspicillata) at Zoo Taiping. I did not collect data on pre behavior because it was a one day field trip only.I recorded the smooth-coated otter`s activity every 5 min via scan sampling with instantaneous recording. I adapted behavioral categories and de? nitions from http: //www. seaworld. org/animal-info/info-books/otters/adaptations. htm. The de? nitions of behaviors that I recorded are in Table I. I recorded observations from 12. 40 p. m to 1. 30p. m.. |Table I : Behavior classi? cations and description | |Category label |De? nition of activities included within category | |Groom |All otters must continually groom their fur to maintain its insulating qualities.Otters spend a | | |substantial amount of time grooming, and many species of river otters have designated areas on land for | | |drying and grooming their fur. Most vigorously dry themselves by rolling on the ground or rubbing | | |against logs or vegetation. | |Swim |Otters are excellent swimmers. They swim with movements of the hind legs and tail. Freshwater otters | | |†dog paddle† with all four feet when swimming slowly or floating. When swimming at a high speed, the | | |entire body, including the tail, undulates up and down and the hind feet steer. | |Play |Some researcher s believe that sliding is a form of play in river otters.For some species, otters of all| | |age classes have been observed sliding. Others believe otters only use these slides for low-energy | | |travel, maintaining that otters generally do not climb to the top of a slope for another slide. These | | |latter researchers have observed very little behavior they interpret as play. | |Rest |Freshwater otters generally rest and sleep on land, either above ground or in dens. They are not | | |particular about where they sleep and often do so even in areas of moderate disturbance.Individual | | |animals often have several resting places. | |Feed |The Smooth-coated otter is a carnivore and in the wild its diet is more than 90% fish over 15cm long, | | |mainly slow-moving fish such as catfish; the balance is frogs, birds, turtles, water snakes, crabs and | | |water rats. The metabolic rate is high, and these active otters will consume 20% of their bodyweight a | | |day. In the wild, they wi ll have several hunting sessions throughout the 24-hour period, interspersed | | |with rest periods. |Diving |Otters can remain under water for 6 to 8 minutes. | |All other behavior |Communication | | |Drinking | | |Defecating | | |Urinating | |Adapt from http://www. seaworld. org/animal-info/info-books/otters/adaptations. htm | RESULT No | | | | |[pic] |[pic] | |12. 40 p. m : Play |12. 45 p. m : Rest | |[pic] |[pic] | |12. 50 p. m : Swim |12. 55 p. m : Rest | |[pic] |[pic] | |1. 00 p. m : Groom |1. 00 p. : Rest | | | | |[pic] |[pic] | |1. 05 p. m : Swim |1. 10 p. m : Rest | |[pic] |[pic] | |1. 15 p. m : Play |1. 20 p. : Swim | |[pic] |[pic] | |1. 25 p. m : Groom |1. 30 p. m : Rest | DISCUSSION From monitoring, I can see the smooth-coated otter have recycles similar activities. Much activity occurs in the water. The webbed feet, strong legs, and long, muscular body and tail adapt the otter to a semi-aquatic lifestyle. Smooth-coated otters are swim with movements of the hin d legs and tail.They use all four feet when swimming slowly or floating. The fur is thick and water proof with two types of hair; a dense under fur which traps an insulating layer of air and remains dry while the otter is swimming and the longer, overlying guard hairs that are water proof (Foster-Turley et al. , 1990; Khan W. A. et al. ,2010 ). Once in the water, an otter is a tireless and superb swimmer, propelling itself with the tail, which also serves as a rudder, and powerful thrusts of the hind limbs. Although otters enjoy and spend a lot of time in water they also require plenty of dry land for resting, grooming, digging and foraging (IUCN/SSC, 2008). On land, they lope or bound.Grooming is a frequent activity and entails rolling in the snow, mud or vegetation, often at the same location known as a landing or a hauling-out site. River otters engage in activities collectively designated as play, for example, repeated touching, shoving, tossing, and manipulating of prey, stones or other objects, or tobogganing down mud or snow slides (Saunders D. A. ,1988). Like other carnivores, smooth-coated otters use scent for inter and intra specific communication. They have a pair of scent glands at the base of the tail, which they use to mark vegetation, flat rocks, or shorelines near feeding areas. This marking behavior in otters is called sprainting.Most of the spraint sites consisted largely of loosely packed sand, and a small amount of rock, but lacked canopy cover, dense vegetation and stony or gravely substrates. Sites with these features are suited for grooming activities, which may explain why the substrate seemed to be the major factor in site selection by otters (Shenoy K. , Varma S. & Devi Prasad K. V. , 2006). Otters are intelligent, active, curious creatures and an ideal day would be to be fed 3 or 4 times a day, have plenty of stimulation and activities which include playing and foraging and also have time to rest out of the public view if so desired (IUCN/SSC, 2008). Vocal, tactile, and chemical signals are the chief means of regulating otter social behavior. Besides, the otters use chirping and humming sounds as contact calls.They hiss, purr, and whistle in other contexts (Saunders D. A. ,1988). CONCLUSION Smooth-coated otter called as Lutrogale perscipillata is known to Zoo Taiping. Besides, they are highly charismatic and popular animals of high concern to fishermen, naturalists, scientists and wild life conservationists the world over. Otters have an intrinsic beauty and they are exciting. Smooth-coated otters, one of the most intriguing semi aquatic mammals, habitual of living amphibious lifestyle, both in water and nearby lands are celebrated for living a life of mystery, disguise and concealment (Singh A. K. , 2011). Smooth-coated otters are well adapted to swimming and foraging in the water supported by Ferti D. Jackson M. & Yin S. , 1994. They have aqua dynamic, webbed feet, fine rudder, fur-tive and high metabolic rat e. It was amazing facts by Khan W. A et al. , 2010, the smooth coated otter (Lutragale perspicillata) considered to be a suitable indicator of pollution level in a wetland. Unfortunately, the smooth-coated otter life is on the brink of extinction. All small carnivore sightings were in or adjacent to protected areas. While this may suggest that their status outside such places could be of concern, it may simply reflect unequal search effort, in that night drives were not conducted at the same rate outside protected areas (Pillay R. ,2009).Otters need to be noticed to undertake stiff protection, taking practical steps for preventing decimation of endemic populace going from â€Å"Vulnerable† under â€Å"Red List† of IUCN to endanger with each passing day. The smooth-coated otter is an important ecological indicator of a healthy wetland and associated biodiversity, especially the fish fauna (Khan W. A. at el. ,2009). Feeroz M. M. , Aziz M. A & Thanchanga P. K, 2011, suppo rted that good habitats with enough food and little human interference can enhance and ensure breeding potentiality and success as well as survival. REFLECTION Firstly, praise to Allah and special thanks to Dr. Syakirah, my fellow course-mates and my family in helping me doing this assignment.My second animal observation at Zoo Taiping is smooth-coated otter. There are a group of three active smooth-coated otters in a spacious and natural like enclosure supported by Shenoy K. , Varma S. & Devi Prasad K. V. , 2006. I watched them for about an hour and it’s really fun and entertaining to watch them with their recycle behavior activities. Most of the time, the otters enjoyed swim in the â€Å"swamp† area and resting on the rocks while grooming. Sometimes, they also play around with each other on the sand area and return to water to swim. IUCN/SSC, 2008, mentioned that those otters are very great swimmer and diver. I was really exciting to see them doing that.There was a t ime when they just stand beside the glass window looking at all the people outside like they are really proud when people watch them supported by Wright L. C, 2010. By looking at the otter’s activity for around an hour, it taught me a lot on their behavioral adaptation. It makes me realize how important and valuable are our nature. Hussain et al. , 2008, reported that smooth-coated otter is also one of the â€Å"Vulnerable† species and human is one of the factors and greatest threat to them, both directly and indirectly. Habitat destruction, water pollution, fishing activity and disease can lead to fragmentation of their populations and extinction.It is our responsibility to protect our wildlife and make sure this little and full of fun creature to continue swimming for years to come. Stop pollution and live harmony with nature so that our next generation can experience and appreciate what we have today. Overall, by writing this report I gained some researching benefit s. One is that I am more aware of what is happening to endangered species. Another is that I know now that humans have a responsibility to protect our wildlife. I also gained confidence in myself. By writing this report, I have some experience in writing reports, and as a biology teacher, I will share this great information to my students, family and friends. REFERENCESAsghar Nawab & Syed Ainul Hussain, (2012), Prey selection by smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) in response to the variation in fish abundance in Upper Gangetic Plains, India Feeroz M. M. , Aziz M. A & Thanchanga P. K, (2011). BREEDING ACTIVITIES OF Lutra perspicillata IN BANGLADES. IUCN Otter Spec. Group Bull. 28(A) 2011. http://www. otterspecialistgroup. org/Bulletin/Volume28A/Feeroz_et_al_2011a. pdf Ferti D. , Jackson M. & Yin S. , (1994). Otters In Galveston Bay Waters. Galveston Bay Foundation. Vol. 6, Number 3. Goldthorpe, G. , Shepherd, C. , Hogg, S. and Leupen B. , (2010). Predation of water monitor lizard (Varanus salvator) by smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) in Peninsular Malaysia. IUCN Otter Spec. Group Bull. 27  (2): 78 – 84 Hartley R. , (2011). Animal facts: Smooth-coated otter. http://www. helium. om/items/2226524-smooth-coated-otter-lutrogale-perspicillata-vulnerable-otter-species-icun-red-list-fishing-otter Hussain, S. A. , de Silva, P. K. , Mostafa Feeroz, M. (2008). Lutrogale perspicillata. In: IUCN 2009. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2009. 1. . IUCN/SSC Otter Specialist Group Otters in Captivity Task Force. (2008). Minimum Husbandry Guidelines for Smooth-Coated Otters in Captivity. http://www. otterspecialistgroup. org/Library/TaskForces/OCT/Husbandry_Guidelines_for_Keeping_Smooth-Coated_Otters_in_Captivity_1st_Edition. pdf Khan W. A. et al. ,(2010). Status of Smooth Coated Otter (Lutrogale perspicillata sindica) in Pakistan. Pakistan J. Zool. , vol. 42(6), pp. 817-824, 2010. Khan W. A. et al. 2009). A SURVEY OF SMOOTH COATED OTT ERS (Lutrogale perspicillata sindica) IN THE SINDH PROVINCE OF PAKISTAN. IUCN Otter Spec. Group Bull. 26(1) 2009 Kuhn, Rachel A. & Wilfried M. ,(2010). Comparative hair structure in the Lutrinae (Carnivora: Mustelidae) mammalia. Volume 74, Issue 3, Pages 291–303, ISSN (Online) 1864-1547, ISSN (Print) 0025-1461, DOI: 10. 1515/mamm. 2010. 039,August 2010 Lariviere S. & Hwang Y. T. ,(2005). Mammalian Species : Lutrogale perspicillata. American Society of Mammalogists Muhammad Rais et al. ,(2009). Recent Records of Smooth-Coated Otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) from Sindh, Pakistan* Pakistan J. Zool. , vol. 41(5), pp. 13-414, 2009 http://zsp. com. pk/pdf1/413-428%20(11). pdf Ogamba E. N. & Abowei J. F. N. ,(2012). Some Predatory Fishes, Birds, Mammals and Some Other Animals in Culture Fisheries Management. International Journal of Fishes and Aquatic Sciences 1(1): 16-34, 2012 ISSN: 2049-8411; e-ISSN: 2049-842X  © Maxwell Scientific Organization, 2012 Otters. (2005). A SeaWorld E ducation Department Publication Pillay R. ,(2009). Observations of small carnivores in the southern Western Ghats, India. Small Carnivore Conservation, Vol. 40: 36–40, April Saunders D. A. ,(1988). Adirondack Mammals. State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry. 16pp. http://www. esf. edu/aec/adks/mammals/otter. htm Shenoy K. ,( 2003). `Against the Current` :Otters in the River Cauvery, Karnataka, Occasional Report No. 11. Otter Research Group Japan. Wildlife Trust of India, New Delhi. Pp Shenoy K. , Varma S. & Devi Prasad K. V. ,(2006), Factors determining habitat choice of the smooth-coated otter, Lutra perspicillata in a South Indian river system. CURRENT SCIENCE, VOL. 91, NO. 5, 10 SEPTEMBER 2006 Singh A. K. , (2011), Smooth Coated Otters of Cauvery River : â€Å" Ambassadors of wetlands Ecology, Behaviour and Conservation†. http://mmhillswildlife. blogspot. com/p/cauvery-otter. html Smith J. R. ,(2008).

Farewell Speech Essay

A Journey by Train A journey by train is the cheapest, comfortable and safe. Last Sunday I went to see my uncle at Rawalpindi. I got up early in the morning. I hired a rickshaw and reached the station. I bought a ticket. There was great rush at the platform. Every body was in a hurry. The train reached in time. I hurriedly boarded the train. Fortunately, I got comfortable seat near the window. The guard whistled and the train moved at 5 a. m. The train passed through the green fields, barren areas and mountains. Trees, buildings and mountains looked running backward. I saw different sights and landscapes. The train crossed many rivers and canals. At last, it arrived at 11 a. m. at Rawalpindi Railway Station. My uncle and cousin were present there to receive me. It was a good experience. My Country The name of my country is Pakistan. It is my home land. It is a Muslim country. It is founded by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. It came into existence on August 14, 1947. it has four provinces. Punjab, Sindh, Frontier and Baluchistan. Every province has its own culture. The people of every province are recognized by their language and dress. But being Pakistanis, they all are one nation. Its national language is Urdu. The official language is still English. Its population is about 16 crore. It is an agricultural country. There are many rivers in it which irrigate its crops. Its main food crops are wheat, maize and rice. Its main cash crops are cotton, tobacco, and seeds. Its area is 310403 square miles. There are high mountains, vast plains and deep sea in it. India China and Afganistan are its neighbouring countries. There are many universities, colleges, and schools in it. It is making progress in industry quickly. May God keep my country in running condition! My village A.B.C is my village. It is situated on Lahore Faisalabad main road. It is 35 kilometers from Faisalabad. It is a large and big village. Its population is about 22,000. Most of the villagers are farmers. Some are factory workers. Some are government servants. The others do their own business. All the villagers are hardworking. They earn well. All are well to do. There are left only some kacha houses. The people of my village are very fond of learning. Except some, all the boys and girls go to school and colleges. There are two high schools in my village one for boys and one for girls. There are six shops in my village. There is a post office, a patwar-khana, an office of the union council and a dispensary in it. The agricultural land of my village is very fertile and rich. My village produces big crops every year. It is an important and beautiful village. SCHOOL SHOKEEPER OR OUR TUCK-SHOP We have a nice, little tuck-shop in our school. It is run by Mr. Nazir. He is about 45. He is a gentleman. He is very polite to polite the students. Most of the students are known to him. He sells fruit, sweets, eggs, milk, tea and other edibles. We can buy cold drinks of many kinds and some stationary. Sometimes the students borrow things. He writes their names with date and amount in a register. He charges the reasonable prices. He sells the pure and No.1 things. The headmaster often tests and checks his things. He advises him to keep his things clean, fresh and pure. It is always a pleasure to pay a visit to it. Rich students frequently visit the shop while the poor now and then. Because it needs some money to visit his shop recess is the rush time of this shop. The shop keeper opens it before the school opens and closes it after the school time. A FARMER A farmer is the most important member of our society. He grows food and corn for us. He gets up with the first crow of the cock. He goes to the cattle shed. He feeds his cattle and milks the buffaloes. Then he says the morning prayers. He takes his breakfast and goes to fields. He works there till noon. Now he ploughs the fields. Then he sows the crops. At another time, he waters the fields. At noon, his wife brings his lunch. After the lunch, he takes some rest, after about two hours, he is again busy with his work. He returns home in the evening. My Father Father is a blessing of Allah. But a kind and generous father is the greatest blessing of Allah. M. Riaz is my dear father. He is an M.A in English and teaches in local High School. He is about 30. He is tall and strong. He is clean shave. He has a graceful personality. He is a true Muslim. He says his prayers regularly. He recites the Holy Quran daily. He awakes us early in the morning and takes us to the masjid. He makes us to live according to the Sunnah. He never lets us go astray. He does his duty honestly. He teaches us to be honest to our work. The Telephone. The telephone was one of the most important inventions of the nineteenth century. It was invented by Alenander Graham Bell. Since then, the telephone changed many forms, shapes and sizes. Later, mobile phones were produced. Their use is that they can be carried anywhere, as they are very small. The telephone works in the way that it converts our sound into electric impulses. These impulses then travel through wires and cables and reach the receiver as sound. At first the telephone was present in only the big cities. In small towns and villages, it was not present. But then, as development of towns and villages took place, the telephone was provided over there as well. Also, international calls could not be made directly, People had to go to exchanges to make international calls. But now you can dial international number sitting in your house. Now-a-days, you can even make phone calls through the computer. Telephone is a great facility for the people of all around the world to connect them one another. Television What a wonderful feat the scientists have done by invented a television! They have provided us with a source of recreation. It is a boon for the people. In the twenty first century, science is progressing by leaps and bounds. It has caused many inventions. The television is one of the wonders of this age. It has made our life easier and more pleasant. We are very fortunate that we are born in the modern scientific age. The television is a symbol of the wonderful progress. It is manufactured by a large number of firms. It has become very common now-a-days. We can say, it has become a part of modern life. We enjoy many facilities as the ancient people could not even dream of it. We are indebted to that benefactor of humanity who invented it. Bit scientists are always busy in inventing such things as many lessen the troubles of human beings and give them comfort. A village Fair There was time when the amusements enjoyed by the villagers were quite different from that of the people living in cities. They took part in the sports, Kabaddi matches and listened to folk songs. With the passage of time, we find no difference between the amusements of the villagers and those of the citizen. Construction of roads has connected the villages to the cities. Electricity has been supplied to most of the villages. Every village has a television set and refrigerator in his home. That entertains his guests with pepsi cola and other cold drinks. Besides sports and kabaddi matches a village fair is also poplar recreation for the village folk. Farmers work hard all the year in their fields. They need some hours of relief and relaxation from boring life. A fair provides them a good entertainment after a harvest. It provides them an opportunity to enjoy to their heart’s content. They forget their cares, worries and laborious work. They put a few hours in the fun and frolic of the fair. Fairs are associated with seasons. In Lahore Mela Cheraghan is held in the last week of March. Mela Naulakha Hazrari is held at Shahkot (Sheikhupura) on 23rd March every year. It is celebrated in memory of a saint. Villagers come from far and near to enjoy the fair. It continues for three day. They attend the fair in groups. They shout, laugh and dance at the beat of drums. There are stalls and shops of toys and sweets, which have a good sale. Fair the most popular form of entertainment for the villagers. It provides them relief from the year long hard work. Mobile Mobile is a mini device through which people talk with one another. It is the latest invention of this era. There was a time when telephone had great important in business fields and in houses to keep the people in touch with one another. But with the advent of mobile, houses look bare with telephones even offices as well. Mobile is a mini device without wires. Mobile is not only a means of talking to others but also it does many other activities of people. The latest mobiles work like a computer. We can watch movies stored in its memory. We can draw a lot of pictures through its camera. We can watch many live programmes on its mini screen if it has the facility of internet in its functions. Using internet, we can employ facebook , google, youtube and many more websites that we need. Mobile is a sort of mini computer. A latest mobile does all the activities which a computer does. It always remains with us and helps us when we are in trouble. A traveling person does not have any difficulty to reach his goal. A business man always feels a helplessness if he does not have any mobile. Mobile has become the dire need of human life.

A Small Business Manager as A Leader

A Small Business Manager as A Leader Outline In the 21st century era, small and large, private and public businesses are all aiming towards economic growth. However, this growth has slowed following emergence of unprincipled leaders whose main aim has been satisfaction of individual needs as opposed to their employees and customers. With such unethical practices, it is obvious that a strong impact has been witnessed in economic growth, which boils down to declining capital investments and unemployment for small businesses. Emergence of economic uncertainty can be traced back to WorldCom and e-business sector failure (Luthans, Luthans, Hodgetts, it incorporates influence, involves attainment of a well labeled goal, and occurs in a group context. Hence, regardless of how leadership is operationalized, these aspects will undeniably play a contributing role in the utilized theory and definition of leadership. From a different perspective, Kouzes and Posner (2007) argue that management is understood from varying defi nitions. Conversely, this does not imply that both management and leadership roles cannot be held by one individual, but management is perceived to follow a definition quite different from leadership. Management definition incorporates supervisory, administrative, and executive direction of an organization or group. Therefore, management and leadership are perceived to share numerous similarities. For instance, going by the understanding of Gordon and Yukl (2004), both leadership and management are ways of impacting influence and collaborating with people for achievement of the overall goal. However, management and leadership fields can also be observed to be different. In Kotler’s leadership theory, leadership is an old concept that has been employed in business for many centuries. Management on the other hand is a concept that has been developed over the last 100 years as a result of industrial transformation. Kotler’s perspective is undeniably shared by many schol ars when it comes to understanding leadership and management. For instance, according to theorists Nanus poor leadership is inherent in many small businesses. Beaver (2003) and Perry (2001)7 affirms that one of the reasons for failure in much small business is simply because of poor leadership. Based on this understanding, Gordon and Yulk (2004) have mainly targeted their reteach in understanding important leadership skills that affect small scale environment. More than two decades ago, Beaver (2003) analyzed 200 small scale businesses that had recorded bankruptcy. From the study, it was clearly observed that the main reason behind failure of small business was management neglect, and lack of knowledge on leadership. Therefore, if these small businesses have to be successful, it is important to incorporate leadership styles. As Pellerin (2007) observes, the rate of failure in small businesses is high. This author observes that by the end of the third year, the rate of failure h its more than 62% in many small businesses. However, this study does not incorporate another burning issue: management incompetence. Scheers and Radipere (2007) add that within the first ten years of business operation, 90% of small business fail. These authors strongly agree that failure in these businesses is mainly caused by poor skills in management and leadership. As a result, for any economy to be successful, small business have to be competitive and productive (Beaver 2003)8. For any economic growth, the central role of small businesses can hardly be undermined. For these businesses, leadership and management skills should be understood as main steps towards increased returns. These skills are well incorporated in different theoretical perspectives. From various authors, leadership has been understood differently although there is a common agreement in these varying perspectives. Leadership has always been perceived to be a process through which one person is able to suppor t and aid others to accomplish common tasks. Through leadership, a way is created through which contribution is enhanced by ensuring that extraordinary things are implemented (Pellerin 2007). In addition, if these leaders have to be successful, they should importantly portray internal control locus. Charismatic leadership Charisma in leadership is highlighted and defined in numerous ways. It is however perceived to be an exemplary character that is natured in an individual person. According to Kouzes and Posner (2007)9, charismatic leadership is perceived as a behavioral inclination of leaders that result in development of exceptionally strong relationship between leaders and their followers. For these charismatic leaders, Robbins and Coutler (2003) has highlighted three exceptional leadership characteristics which are; expression of high confidence, strong convictions, and dominance in their beliefs. The same authors also add that these charismatic leaders should be able to dem onstrate optimism, determination and confidence, and collective ability of accomplishing mission and realizing the vision. These authors arguably add that these leaders are also required to engender trust as well as the ability to take personal risks to prove that their approach is indeed justified. Therefore, there is a high likelihood of charismatic leaders focusing to develop a clear and distinct group. Charismatic leadership has a high likelihood of being found in emerging and struggling small businesses than in stable and successful organizations. Emphasizing on the importance of this leadership, Kouzes and Posner (2007) have highlighted five important attributes that must be found in any leader to be categorized as charismatic. They are: (1) Articulation and vision; (2) Sensitivity to the needs of employees; (3) Personal risk taking; (4) Sensitivity to the business environment in which the business is operating; and (5) Execution of progressive behavior. Schermerhorn (2005) has summarized charismatic leaders as leaders or managers who are capable of sparking a sense of belonging towards the business. In addition, these leaders have been able to inspire their employees towards a direction in which organizational objectives and goals may be achieved (Schermerhorn 2005)10. Transformational leadership According to Pryor et al. (2007)11, transformational leaders are able to impact movement and change in their organization. Such leaders are able to seek ways of altering the prevailing structure while ensuring that people are continuously convinced to support new responsibilities and vision. For the excellent transformational leaders, power and authority is utilized as motivational and inspirational tools to the people they follow and trust. This leadership is hence able to provide energy producing characteristics through which new changes are likely to be generated in a business. Furthermore, these leaders are capable of motivating followers to transcend their individual interests for other combined purposes while at the same time ensuring that these followers are assisted to increasingly satisfy their individual needs. Pryor et al. (2007) have revealed inner transformational leadership characteristics in small business. These characteristics are highlighted to be inclusive of honesty, integrity, and personal values. These characteristics are positively influential to the leader’s behavior. For effective performance, a major ingredient is connection of transformational leadership with life experiences. This inner connection is combined with the resulting behaviors do develop external behaviors through which a business is transformed. For instance, a group vision is produced by a sense of personal involvement. Management models Conventionally, small businesses have been seen to have a low likelihood of utilizing strategic management models in comparison to large organizations based on a number of reasons. They are: (1) Sm all businesses are in most cases owned at the family level; (2) The leaders in small businesses are in most cases focused on daily operations thereby paying minimal-if any- attention to strategic management systems and management models; (3) Small businesses are mainly less endowed in financial resources that can comfortably be utilized in improving business performance through training; and (4) Competitors at their levels apply similar business approaches, without incorporation of any managerial models and implementation of systems through which improvement can be enhanced. Additionally, entrepreneurs involved in development of small business are hardly interested in development of procedures and processes. On the other side, large organizations obviously incorporate people with a clear understanding of management models by the time they have completed their studies in colleges. Moreover, these organizations have large amounts of finances that can resourcefully be allocated to tr aining. Large scale businesses compete with large business opponents that are competitively and strategically driven. Strategic management approach This approach was initially developed by Toombs, White, and Pryor (1998) with a perception that small scale business leaders or managers incorporate strategic management elements in their business. This ideal incorporates the SWOT analysis together with the vision, mission, objectives, goals, values, competitive advantage, critical success factors, measurement, and feedback. Various theorists strongly insist that strategic management is an important aspect for a small business targeting enhancement of quality initiatives. Numerous authors have mostly insisted that as a result of incorporating various business theories, models, standards, tools, strategies, surveys, and training, it becomes possible for small businesses to be improved. These theorists mainly insist on the need for integrating quality initiatives into the organizations strategic management (Pryor et al. 2007)12. As a way of creating additional emphasis on this point, Chemers (2002) explain that total quality management must be linked to the strategy of a business because most strategies incorporate goals. Chemers also adds that TQM must be guided by a senior team in management and project selection must be based on their importance when it comes to achieving success in a business. Robbins and Coulter (2003)13 supports the perception above. However, they argue that customer impact must be integrated with strategic management as a way of achieving the desired results. Model While strategic management theory is perceived to be a model that should be incorporated by business leaders for long term success and survival, this model hardly incorporates the 5P’s model that was established by Pryor (1998)14. The strategic management model and strategic direction establishment is perceived to be incorporated in one of the five rudiments that shou ld importantly be adopted to enhance a business success. For pneumonic purposes, this business approach has mainly been referred to as â€Å"Purpose.† The remaining elements are performance, people, processes, and principles. The 5P’s model is perceived to have some elements that are similar to those found in strategic management model that has earlier been examined. However, these elements have additional importance besides their individual importance. Moreover, their alignment is perceived to be equally important. Business leadership approaches Trait approach to leadership Trait approach is developed from â€Å"great man† model as an approach through which key characteristics can be identified for successful leaders. This approach is centered on the perception that through this approach, it is possible for leadership approaches to be isolated. Therefore, individuals possessing such traits can be selected, recruited, and installed into the positions of le adership. This theory has resulted in development of numerous traits. After numerous years characterized with continuous research, it is apparently hard to identify consistent traits. Although some traits have been found in various studies, these studies results have been inconclusive. It is possible for some leaders to possess certain traits. However, in case these traits are not present in an individual, this is not sufficient reason to disqualify such a person as a leader. In order to qualify an individual as effective leader, various traits should be processed. Nevertheless, there is a high likelihood of some traits to be more frequently observed than others. Some of the commonly observed traits in an effective leader are inclusive of friendliness, technical skills, task motivation, supportiveness to group tasks, emotional control, social skills, intelligence, and general charisma. Behavioral leadership The trait studies results were not conclusive. The inconclusiveness is b ased on the perception that it is hard to measure traits amongst other things. For instance, it is hard to measure such traits such as integrity, diligence, loyalty, and honesty. This inconclusiveness is what has challenged development of behavioral model. In this model, the focus is based on human relationships alongside performance and output. In McGregor’s theory Y and theory X managers, it is observed that an average individual is more likely to develop an inherent work dislike and will make all efforts possible to avoid working. In theory X, it is observed that this individual characteristic is highly likely to provoke the need for controlling, coercing, or even threatening individuals if they are to be encouraged to make efforts required for organizational goal achievement. Theory X is also based on the perception that an average individual highly prefers being directed as a way of avoiding responsibility. In theory Y, the managers believe that mental or physical effo rt expenditure is as natural as rest and play. In addition, the managers believe that employees are likely to exercise self-control and self-direction as a way of achieving the objectives that define their commitment. Moreover, the ability of exercising high level of ingenuity, imagination, and creativity in organization problem solution is widely (as opposed to being narrowly) disseminated in the people and human being potentials. From this theory, it is possible to conclude that theory X leader is more drawn towards an autocratic approach while theory Y leader is more drawn towards a participative style. In the managerial grid, developed through collaboration of Jane Mouton and Robert Blake, the focus has mainly been drawn to managers, employees (people), and task (production) orientation together with a combination of concerns between these two limits. Mouton and Brake model therefore suggest that team management, a major concern to production and employee, is the most effectiv e leadership approach. Situational or contingency leadership approach to business Even as behavioral model is likely to assist management in a business when it comes to development of a specific leadership behavior, little guidance is given in understanding the constituents of effective leadership in varying situations. Undeniably, most modern researchers conclusively agree that indeed there exists no one appropriate leadership style for every manager under all settings. Therefore, development of contingency models was aimed at indicating that the utilized style is dependent upon such aspects as the people, the situation, and business among other surrounding variables. In contingency approach, it is understood that there hardly exists one specific approach through which managers can be able to lead. As a result of situations, varying leadership requirements are likely to be created for a leader. For this leadership situation, the solution is dependent on the factors affecting th e situation. For instance, in a high routine environment characterized with repetitive tasks, a comparatively directive management approach it likely to yield best results. However, a more participative approach will be required in a dynamic environment. Building a successful business According to Howard (2006)15, business performance is perceived to be a multifaceted construct incorporating customer, operational, and financial oriented performance domains. The non-financial measures are inherent in Howard study. This performance measurement approach is incorporated as a result of limitation connected with small businesses financial data measurement. The satisfaction of the owners through performance of business is perceived to be one significant success indicators. Small business success is defined as performance level equal to or exceeding the firms owner expectations. The indicators that have mainly been employed in performance measurement are: profitability, annual earnings, and return on investments. Standards of a small business The small business standards have been developed by Chartered Quality Institute (CQI) (2007) in collaboration with the management consultants. This is a business model that is perceived to be important for managers targeting continuous growth in their business. Designing of the small business standards is aimed to be utilized in various investments that include small and medium size businesses, and micro businesses (CQI 2007). In the places where â€Å"management† term is utilized to imply micro business, it is likely to imply the â€Å"proprietor.† In the standard business model, there are nine main sections: (1) Customer care; (2) Business reviews; (3) Employees and staff; (4) management responsibility; (5) suppliers; (6) processes and work environment; (7) Correction and prevention of services complications; (8) Records; and (9) Documentation. While the standard is mainly perceived to be simplistic in com parison to the 5P’s model and Strategic management model, it incorporates numerous small business management key ingredients. Therefore for small businesses, it is likely to be a good starting point as the business moves towards management and improvement of its organization (CQI, 2007)16. In relation to the small businesses standards application, one British Standards Institute website has observed that it is possible for real business standards to be achieved by small scale businesses. If this approach is well utilized, it hence has a high likelihood of resulting in: (1) elimination of inefficiencies witnessed when it comes to allocation of already limited resources; (2) improvement of marketing speed and risk reduction; and (3) enhancement of an effective competition with bigger businesses (British Standards Institute 2007)17. From the general leadership perspective, it is apparent that indeed success or failure in results production will mainly depend on leadersâ€⠄¢ character. For these leaders to be viewed as effective, they have to be viewed as essential for the business success. However, the achievement of organizational success will not depend on adoption of similar leadership styles in all organizations. Nonetheless, these leaders will have an influential role on how the organizational goals are to be achieved by the employees in the organization. For this to be enhanced, small business leaders will require advanced understanding of the leadership styles to portray progress and development in achievement of organizational objectives and goals. With small business research, these leaders will be provided with understanding of leadership activities that are necessary for specific position if achievement of organizational objectives and goals is to be enhanced. These businesses will hence have to establish working environment for their business; this will be enhanced through leadership style. For organizational effectiveness, leadership wi ll obviously have an important role. If employee empowerment will not be fulfilled in these organizations, there will be a high likelihood of employee dissatisfaction that will undeniably divert from achievement of organizational objectives and goals. Therefore, if a healthy working environment has to be maintained in these businesses, leadership should play an integral role. Conclusion The theoretical underpinnings evaluated in this article clearly demonstrate need for robust leadership existence in any small business. The failure of these businesses is indeed due to failure to adopt the necessary and fundamental requisites of a successful organization; effective leadership and management skills. This essay is very relevant; for instance in the current economic conditions that desperately require an influential intervention. Leadership hence should be trailed towards ensuring employee satisfaction and effectiveness as a way through organizational success and profitability will be enhanced. Consequently, robust leadership will eventually affect the success and profitability of small business. The way through which this will be enhanced is through incorporation of leadership and management theories analyzed in this essay. These leadership and management hence need to be employee motivation towards adaptation of organizational vision and mission. References 1(Luthans, Luthans, Hodgetts, & Luthans 2001) 2(Shaw & Shapiro 2002) 3(Kouzes & Posner 2007) 4(Chemers, 2002) 5(Howard, 2006) 6(Kuratko, 2007) 7 Beaver (2003) and Perry (2001) 8(Beaver 2003) 9 Kouzes and Posner (2007) 10 Schermerhorn (2005) 11 Pryor et al. (2007) 12 White, and Pryor (1998) 13 Robbins and Coulter (2003) 14 established by Pryor (1998) 15 According to Howard (2006) 16(CQI, 2007) 17 (British Standards Institute 2007)

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