Small vertebrates in CFS ecological corridor (D-PL1: Lojing - Sungai Brok - Sungai Betis Forest Reserves) Kelantan

Abstract

Small vertebrate surveys were carried out in the Sungai Brok and Sungai Betis Forest Reserves. The Central Forest Spine (CFS) initiative has recognised these forest reserves as part of Kelantan's important ecological corridors, known as D-PL1. The surveys were conducted from July to September 2019. This study aims to identify and update the checklist of small vertebrates in the selected forest reserves. One hectare plot was established in each forest reserve for this study. Traps were used to capture and document these vertebrates, including 100 collapsible cage traps, three harp traps, 10 mist nets, and 25 pitfall traps deployed at each sampling site. In addition, the surveys also carried out active searches and direct observations. Overall, this study recorded 83 species from 38 families of small vertebrates. With the total, small mammals comprise of 13 spp. from six families, birds (53 spp. from 24 families), and herpetofauna (17 spp. from eight families) were recorded during this study. Ten small mammal species are recorded as additional species for D-PL1. Birds and herpetofauna recorded 38 and eight additional species to the existing checklist of D-PL1, respectively. Based on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (Version 3.1), this study recorded three threatened species namely Great Argus (Argusianus argus), Great Slaty Woodpecker (Mulleripicus pulverulentus), and Grey-cheeked Bulbul (Alophoixus tephrogenys) in D-PL1. This information is likely to support stakeholders in formulating a management strategy for the forest mosaics in the corridor, which will continue to serve as an essential habitat for small vertebrates.