Spatio-temporal variations in Takin (Budorcas tibetanus) habitats in the five mountains of Sichuan, China

Abstract

Takin (Budorcas tibetanus) is an endangered ungulate listed as a first-class national protected animal in China. Investigating the spatio-temporal variations in Takin habitats is necessary for its scientific and efficient conservation and management. Using Takin occurrence points obtained during the third (1999–2001) and fourth national survey (2011–2014) for the giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca), the spatio-temporal variations in Takin habitats and the driving factors in the five mountains of Sichuan province (Minshan, Qionglai, Daxiangling, Xiaoxiangling and Liangshan) were analysed. During the past decade, the enhancement of human activity resulted in a reduction of the Takin's habitat from 29925 km2 to 24400 km2 in the study area, with indices reflecting the continuity and aggregation of Takin habitats increased. During the fourth survey, the Takin habitats were primarily distributed in the Qionglai and Minshan Mountains, accounting for 47% and 35% of the total Takin habitat. In contrast, Liangshan Mountains have the least habitat area, with a percentage of only 0.1% (25 km2), which was too small to ensure a sustainable Takin population. Human activities, combined with the percentage of Broadleaf forests, play an essential role in determining the distribution of Takins. The differentiation of Takin habitats within the five Sichuan mountains highlights the importance of analyzing spatio-temporal dynamics of distribution patterns of target species for guiding conservation and management strategies.

Keywords

• Takin (Budorcas tibetanus)
• Distribution
• Habitat
• Driving factor
• MaxEnt model