Showing papers in "Oryx in 2000"

Forest loss and fragmentation in the Amazon: implications for wildlife conservation.

Abstract: Amazonian forests are experiencing rapid, unprecedented changes that are having major impacts on wildlife, regional hydrology and the global climate. Rates of deforestation and logging have accelerated in recent years and patterns of forest loss are changing, with extensive new highways providing conduits for settlers and loggers into the heart of the Amazon basin. These myriad changes are causing widespread fragmentation of forests. Fragmented landscapes in the Amazon experience diverse changes in forest dynamics, structure, composition and microclimate, and are highly vulnerable to droughts and fires—alterations that negatively affect a wide variety of animal species. In human-dominated lands intensive hunting may interact synergistically with fragmentation to further threaten wildlife populations.

African elephants and humans in conflict: the outlook for co‐existence

Abstract: The future persistence of African elephants over the 80 per cent of the species's range that remains outside protected areas is increasingly uncertain in many parts of the continent. Conflict between elephants and agriculturalists is already widespread and can lead to displacement or elimination of elephants, causing a further decline in their range and numbers. ‘Protectionist’ conservation groups have recently attempted to play down the importance of human–elephant conflict, contending that it has been greatly exaggerated by those advocating sustainable use of wildlife. The future of elephants in ecosystems over much of the continent will depend largely upon the attitudes and activities of humans. The realities of survival faced by rural Africans may mean that little attention will be paid to a debate taking place on conservation philosophy in the developed world. Therefore, the IUCN African Elephant Specialist Group (AfESG) is investigating how human land use can be integrated with the needs of elephant populations in Africa's biogeographical regions. Findings from these studies will be used in attempts to benefit elephant conservation and management in the 37 African elephant range states.

Crop-raiding elephants and conservation implications at Way Kambas National Park, Sumatra, Indonesia

Abstract: Crop raiding by wild elephants is one of the most significant sources of park–people conflict in Sumatra, Indonesia. The distribution, impact and conservation implications of elephant crop-raiding in 13 villages that border Way Kambas National Park in southern Sumatra were studied for 18 months. The data are based on rapid village and field assessments, data logs maintained by village observers and a quantitative household survey. Elephants raided crops year-round at a mean rate of 0.53 elephants per day for the entire study area. The frequency of crop raiding was related to vegetation type along the park border, the size and presence of rivers, and the distance to the park's Elephant Training Center (ETC), which houses about 150 captive elephants. Wild elephants damaged at least 450,000 sq m of corn, rice, cassava, beans and other annual crops, and close to 900 coconut, banana and other perennial trees in the area surveyed. Elephants killed or injured 24 people over a 12-year period in villages near the park. Villagers try to reduce elephant damage by guarding fields, digging trenches between the park and their fields, and modifying their cropping patterns. Elephant–human conflict decreases the probability of support from local people for conservation efforts. We suggest methods to improve the effectiveness of existing elephant trenches, the need to consider electric fences, external support to affected villages, and compensation to villagers for any damage caused.

Conservation issues and priorities in the Mikea Forest of south‐west Madagascar

Abstract: The dry forests constitute one of the most distinct, yet least protected, ecosystems in Madagascar, an island renowned for high levels of endemism. They have generally been considered one of the most intact of Madagascar's climax vegetation types and accordingly have received little conservation effort. In particular, the Mikea Forest, a unique area between the Mangoky and Fiherenana rivers, currently receives negligible formal protection. It contains remarkably diverse plant and reptile assemblages, including several taxa that are found nowhere else, plus the only populations of two threatened bird species: the subdesert mesite Monias benschi and long-tailed ground-roller Uratelornis chimaera. From satellite imagery we estimate that primary forest cover declined by 15.6 per cent from 1962 to 1999, and that the rate of deforestation has increased from 0.35 per cent per annum in 1962–94 to 0.93 per cent per annum over the past 5 years. The most important factors underlying this process are slash-and-burn maize cultivation in the northern Mikea Forest and charcoal production at its southern fringe. Given these alarming circumstances, we suggest that combinations of conservation measures are required to safeguard the biological diversity of the area. Specifically, we recommend the establishment of a large protected area to the north of Manombo, a co-ordinated network of community-based conservation areas throughout the Mikea Forest, development projects to improve agriculture, and a regional research and education centre.

Elephants in Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa: reconstruction of the population's history

Abstract: The history of the Addo elephant population in South Africa, from the creation of the Addo Elephant National Park (AENP) in 1931 to the present (every elephant currently living within the park is known), was reconstructed. Photographic records were used as a primary source of historical evidence, in conjunction with all documentation on the population. Elephants can be identified in photographs taken throughout their life by study of the facial wrinkle patterns and blood vessel patterns in their ears. These characteristics are unique for each elephant and do not change during the individual's life. The life histories of individual elephants were traced: dates of birth and death were estimated and, wherever possible, the identity of the individual's mother was ascertained. An annual register of elephants living within the population, from 1931 to the present, was compiled, and maternal family trees constructed. Preliminary demographic analyses for the period 1976–98 are presented. The quantity and quality of photographs taken during these years enabled thorough investigation of the life histories of all elephants. Prior to 1976, insufficient photographs were available to provide reliable data on the exact birth dates and mothers' identities for every calf born. However, data on annual recruitment and mortality are considered sufficiently reliable for use in analyses of the population's growth and recovery.

Preliminary assessment of the impacts of human activities on gorillas Gorilla gorilla gorilla and other wildlife at Dzanga‐Sangha Reserve, Central African Republic

Abstract: The aim of this study was to make preliminary assessments of the effects of human activities on the gorillas and other wildlife in the Dzanga-Ndoki Park and broader Dzanga-Sangha Dense Forest Reserve (RDS), Central African Republic. During a month-long survey in 1997, observation and sign of humans and large mammals, including ape nest-sites, were recorded on 81.2 km of line transects in three sectors of the park and reserve. Human activities, including intensities of logging and hunting, appeared to decrease with distance from the population centres and were lower in the park than in the reserve sectors. Encounter rates with sign of duikers Cephalophus spp., monkeys Cercopithecus spp. and Cercocebus albigena, elephants Loxodonta africana, and gorillas Gorilla gorilla gorilla were generally lower in regions of high human activity in the reserve than in the park sectors. Nevertheless, gorilla nest-site densities did not vary significantly between sectors or with human activity levels. A high frequency of zero (bare ground) nests at RDS suggests that gorilla surveys that rely on line transect methods and use nest decomposition rates from other studies may sometimes underestimate gorilla densities. This study suggests that current levels of exploitation in managed hunting zones of national forest reserves may be negatively affecting targeted wildlife populations in these zones. Assessments should be a regular part of efforts to monitor the health of wildlife populations in managed protected zones. Participation by Central Africans in research will continue to benefit conservation and development efforts.

Rediscovery of rodents (Genus Nesoryzomys) considered extinct in the Galápagos Islands

Abstract: The history of the endemic rodents of the musculus) The extant species of native rodents in the Galapagos Islands began with the discovery of the first Galapagos rice rat species by Charles Darwin in 1835 Galapagos Islands now number four: N narboroughi and N fernandinae on Fernandina; N swarthi on and the last species was described as recently as 1980 Unfortunately, of the seven described species known to Santiago; and Oryzomys bauri on Santa Fe Three species are found on islands where no introduced rodents or occur in the islands during the past 150 years, only two cats occur, whereas only one (N swarthi ) co-exists with were known to be extant to 1995 Since then, two R rattus and M musculus Nesoryzomys darwini and N expeditions to the Galapagos Islands have been con- ducted to survey endemic rodent populations The first indefessus on Santa Cruz and O galapagoensis on San Cristobal are still considered extinct Strategies for con- confirmed the existence of a small endemic rice rat, Nesoryzomys fernandinae, on Fernandina, known pre- servation should include monitoring islands for intro- viously only from owl pellet remains found in 1979 In duced rodents and cats, development of emergency 1997, an expedition to Santiago revealed a population plans in the event of introductions, and captive man- agement of the larger rice rat N swarthi, a species collected alive only once in 1906 and considered extinct in all recent Keywords Conservation, Ecuador, extinction, Gala ´- literature on the Galapagos Islands Survey efforts on Santa Cruz resulted only in the collection of introduced pagos, islands, Nesoryzomys, Oryzomys, Rattus, rodent

Conservation and management of humpback dolphins: the South African perspective

Abstract: Population biology and socio-ecology of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins Sousa chinensis were investigated during a 3-year study period in the Algoa Bay region, South Africa. The dolphins inhabit a narrow strip of coastal waters, mostly less than 15 m deep. Groups are small (mean = 7 animals) and their daily activities concentrate around shallow rocky reefs—the primary feeding grounds. Dependence on these restricted, shallow-water habitats is evident throughout the year. Site fidelity is generally weak and is subject to seasonal migration, although female site fidelity seems to be related to reproductive stage. Births occur predominantly in summer. The social system is highly fluid, structured to some degree by sex and age, ‘matesearching’ behaviour being the most likely male reproductive strategy. The dolphins inhabiting Algoa Bay are part of a substantially larger population that uses a considerable length of the coastal zone. Estimated population parameters are generally low, as are modelled population growth rates, and an increase in the population size seems unlikely. Humpback dolphins appear to be vulnerable to negative environmental pressure and the alteration/destruction of inshore habitats is probably among the greatest threats to them. Conservation of this species should be given high priority and be seen as an important part of integrated coastal zone management. Establishment of multiple-use management areas with controlled ecotourism and several priority sites declared as strict reserves seems to be the most effective conservation approach. In order to be successful, conservation and management policies need to recognize the needs and lifestyles of the local inhabitants.

Rare plants on Mount Oku summit, Cameroon

Abstract: The forests of the Kilum-Ijim area, around Mount Oku in West Cameroon, are the largest remaining patch of montane forest in West Africa, and the highest in altitude. This important habitat harbours endemic species of both animals and plants but is surrounded by a high density of human settlements: c. 300,000 people live within a day's walk of the forest, which covers only 200 sq km. BirdLife International and the Ministry of the Environment and Forestry, Government of Cameroon, are currently operating the Kilum-Ijim Forest Project, with the overall goal of conserving representative areas of the Cameroon montane forest biome in the long-term. The purpose of the project is to ensure that the biodiversity, extent and ecological processes of the Kilum-Ijim Forest are maintained and that the forest is used sustainably by the local communities. The existence of a small Sphagnum community and associated wetland plant species was discovered in 1997 on the summit of Mount Oku, at 2900 m. This site is of extremely high conservation importance because several plant species endemic to the Kilum-Ijim area have been recorded there. In addition, it is the highest Sphagnum bog and the source of the highest stream in West Africa.

Imminent extinction crisis among the endemic species of the forests of Yanbaru, Okinawa, Japan

Abstract: The natural forest in Yanbaru, the northern part of the main island of Okinawa (Okinawa Honto), is an important area for nature conservation, because it has a large number of endemic animals and plants. First, we explain the status of the most important endemic animals of Yanbaru, stressing that most of them are endangered and near extinction. Second, we show especially high species diversity of trees, insects and mites in the Yanbaru forest. However, the integrity of the Yanbaru forest is seriously threatened by clear-cutting and complete removal of forest undergrowth. Although an area in Yanbaru occupied by the US Marine Corps has, to date, preserved good natural forest, a new plan to establish seven military helipads in this area is now being examined. Possible outcomes of such a development are evaluated. In addition, requests by Japanese biologists for the Defence Facilities Administration Agency, Japan to consider alternate sites for the helipads are described.

Population declines of Przewalski's gazelle around Qinghai Lake, China

Abstract: Przewalski's gazelle Procapra przewalskii is The causes of the declines vary for each population but endemic to China and is classified as Critically Endan- include loss of habitat as a result of desertification, poaching and, possibly, wolf predation. Human activity gered by IUCN—The World Conservation Union. His- and high juvenile mortality are major threats to the torically, the species occurred in parts of the provinces of Gansu, Inner Mongolia, Ningxia and Qinghai but continued survival of the gazelle. Conservation meas- ures proposed are: (i) the establishment of a special now appears to be restricted to three populations around Qinghai Lake. These three populations—Bird reserve for Przewalski's gazelle; (ii) a study of the wolf-gazelle relationship and control of the number of Island, Hudong-Ketu and Yuanzhe—have all declined since 1988. The populations have been monitored since wolves if necessary; (iii) a search for remnant popu- 1994 and the smallest, on Bird Island, appears to be on lations of Przewalski's gazelle in other regions in the brink of extinction, with only seven individuals their historical range and the identification of suitable sites for translocation and establishment of new popu- being recorded in 1998. In the same year, the Hudong- Ketu population comprised 56 individuals (29.4 per cent lations. males, 50 per cent females and 21 per cent juveniles) and the Yuanzhe population 51 individuals (29.4 per cent Keywords China, conservation, gazelle, Procapra males, 43.1 per cent females and 27.5 per cent juveniles). przewalskii, threatened species.

Flagships for the future

Abstract: For many years conservationists have relied on attracting the attention, and donations, of a potentially fickle public by publicizing the threats to the animals and plants they care most strongly about. In many cases these species have been high-profile large mammals and birds. The role of mammals as 'flagship species' for wider conservation action is exemplified by species such as pandas, tigers and whales where, by implication, protection of these species will also protect a broad habitat and a wide range of other animals. In addition, advertising the threats to these species also acts to increase general awareness among the public of the true issues facing our planet and brings home the growing crisis with regard to biodiversity loss.

Status and distribution of the endemic Bali starling Leucopsar rothschildi

Abstract: The Bali starling Leucopsar rothschildi is a passerine endemic to the dry monsoon forest of the island of Bali, Indonesia. Habitat conversion and excessive capture for the pet trade brought the species to the verge of extinction in the 1980s. The species is critically endangered because of 1) an extremely small population size, 2) restriction to a small area, 3) illegal trapping, and 4) diminishing suitable habitat left within its natural range. An intricate web of factors prevents the Bali starling from emerging from this precarious situation.

A survey of bonobos and other large mammals in the Salonga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo

Abstract: In December 1997 and January 1998 we trav- elled to the northern section of the Salonga National Park Tragelaphus euryceros, black mangabey Lophocebus atter- imus and leopard Panthera pardus, are present in reason- in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park is the able numbers in the part of the park we explored. Bonobo largest African rain forest reserve, and was created in 1970 to protect endemic species such as the bonobo Pan density was calculated at 1.15 animals per sq km, based paniscus and the Congo peacock Afropavo congensis. on nest counts. Some elephants Loxodonta africana sur- However, hardly any data exist on the status of animals vive, despite the enormous hunting pressure. Conserva- in the park. In order to collect basic information, we set tion measures to protect the animals need to be taken up camp at four sites along two rivers, where we urgently. followed long trails deep into the forest. A total of 7.5 km Keywords Bonobos, Democratic Republic of Congo, line transects were cut from three sites, along which all evidence of large mammals was recorded. Our data mammals, Salonga National Park, threats.

The local extinction of the proboscis monkey Nasalis larvatus in Pulau Kaget Nature Reserve, Indonesia

Abstract: The population of the threatened proboscis monkey Nasalis larvatus, a Bornean endemic, in the their capture. There was neither a proper pre-transloca- Pulau Kaget Nature Reserve, South Kalimantan, tion assessment of the suitability of the release sites, Indonesia, is extinct. Until 1997, this small, isolated popu- nor a proper post-translocation monitoring programme for the released animals. We conclude that the Pulau lation, estimated at c. 300 individuals, had been pushed Kaget reserve and its proboscis monkeys have been towards the fringes of the reserve by illegal agricul- tural expansion. As food sources became depleted, the poorly managed. We provide some suggestions to im- prove the effectiveness of conservation efforts in In- population apparently exceeded the decreasing carry- ing capacity of the reserve and was reported to be donesia. starving to death. As a solution, 84 animals were translocated to nearby, unprotected sites, resulting in Keywords Conservation, Indonesia, Nasalis larvatus, 13 fatalities. An additional 61 animals were taken primates, proboscis monkey. mangroves. It lives typically in groups of 3-23 individ- uals, dominated by a single male, and may form associ-

Bird and mammal conservation in Gaoligongshan Region and Jingdong County, Yunnan, China: patterns of species richness and nature reserves

Abstract: Elevational and latitudinal patterns of species richness for birds and mammals were compared with human population density in relation to nature reserve designation in two areas of Yunnan Province, China. Results suggest that species richness is not the same for the two areas. In Gaoligongshan Region, species richness is inversely correlated with elevation and altitude, while reserve designation is positively correlated with elevation and latitude. In Jingdong County, reserve designations are positively correlated with elevation, but species richness shows no clear trends. In general, the present situation is strongly influenced by human activities. It appears that reserve designation is mismatched with species richness in Gaoligongshan Region, while there is a better fit between the two in Jingdong County. In both areas, however, it appeared that reserves were located primarily in order to reduce conflict with humans rather than to maximize conservation of biodiversity, probably because humans were responsible for forest—especially primary forest—destruction and degradation in the low-lying areas.

Distribution and abundance of the Amami rabbit Pentalagus furnessi in the Amami and Tokuno Islands, Japan

Abstract: The Amami rabbit Pentalagus furnessi is a rare forest-dwelling form endemic to the Amami and Tokuno Islands in Japan. In order to estimate the distribution and abundance of the Amami rabbit we counted their faecal pellets along forest roads and streams as well as within the forests on Amami and Tokuno Islands during January 1993–March 1995. The number of pellets/ km along a stream gave a practical index for measuring relative abundance. The rabbit was estimated to be distributed over about 370 sq km on Amami Island and 33 sq km on Tokuno Island. There was a large variance in faecal abundance among the survey routes. Some populations were completely isolated and thought to be very small. The size of a local population was positively correlated with those of neighbouring populations and the amount of mature forest relative to other serai stages. We compared the results of this survey with those of previous surveys to find that the total population of this species appears to be declining. Some conservation measures are proposed for forest habitat management, designed to avert the decline of the Amami rabbit and to ensure its preservation.

Chemical restraint of endangered mammals for conservation purposes: a practical primer.

Abstract: Wild mammals sometimes need to be restrained for conservation purposes. Game rangers, wildlife managers, field biologists and wildlife veterinarians need to be fully conversant with a wide array of environmental and biological variables when using chemical restraint on wild mammals. In order to minimize risks to subject animals, they also need to be able to react appropriately using the correct equipment with sufficient skill to deal with anything that can go wrong. The importance of thorough background research and planning before going into the field cannot be overemphasized. The physiological results of immobilization drugs delivered by dart depend on dosages, the success of dart placement and drug delivery in good muscle, as well as the physiological state of the animals prior to and during anaesthetic induction. This paper describes the essential components of a planning and monitoring protocol for chemically restraining terrestrial mammals under field conditions.

Health considerations of the rehabilitation of illegally traded houbara bustards Chlamydotis undulata macqueenii in the Middle East

Abstract: There is a large illegal trade in trapped houbara bustards Chlamydotis undulata macqueenii, which are smuggled into the Middle East for falconry. Mortality is high and is associated with poor transport conditions, malnutrition, overcrowding and exposure to multiple infectious diseases, in particular aspergillosis, avian pox and paramyxovirus type 1 virus. Other pathogens include Salmonella sp., Pseudomonas sp., Trichomonas sp., intestinal endoparasites, avian leucosis, reovirus, adenovirus, paramyxovirus type 2 and Chlamydia sp. Various regional initiatives have been initiated to confiscate and rehabilitate illegally trapped birds. This paper reviews the causes of morbidity and mortality seen in illegally traded houbara bustards and provides health recommendations for those involved in rehabilitation.

The reintroduction of the swift fox Vulpes velox to South Central Saskatchewan, Canada

Abstract: The Canadian Swift Fox Reintroduction Programme lasted from 1972 to 1997. From 1983 to 1997, a total of 841 captive-raised swift foxes and 91 translocated swift foxes were released in the Canadian Prairies. In South Central Saskatchewan, 406 captiveraised animals and 14 translocated animals were released from 1990 to 1997. This area was used to develop new release methods (in particular, portable protective shelters (PPS)) and saw the co-operation of a nongovernmental organization (NGO) (Cochrane Ecological Institute (CEI)) with two levels of government (Heritage Canada (Grasslands National Park) and the Government of Saskatchewan). A 1996–97 survey of swift foxes in South Central Saskatchewan estimated the population to be 87 animals. No attempt has been made to establish if this population level is sustainable.

A population survey of the estuarine crocodile in the Ayeyarwady Delta, Myanmar

Abstract: The estuarine crocodile Crocodylus porosus was formerly abundant in coastal regions of Myanmar, but is now known principally from the lower Ayeyarwady Delta. We conducted a survey during January 1999 to assess quantitatively the status of crocodile populations in protected areas of the lower delta. Spotlight counts were conducted along 275.4 km of waterways. Sixty-one crocodiles (50 juveniles, 4 subadults, 2 adults and 5 eyeshines) were observed in the Meinmahla Kyun Wildlife Sanctuary (MKWS), and the total population was estimated to be less than 100. The Kadonkani and Pyindaye Reserved Forests (RF) apparently no longer support viable populations. Although crocodiles remain critically endangered in the region, a comparison with survey data from 1980 suggests localized recovery is occurring in MKWS. Population declines are attributed to a combination of commercial skin hunting, habitat loss, drowning in fishing nets and over-collection of living animals to supply crocodile farms. A programme of law enforcement, habitat protection and head-starting juveniles is necessary to ensure the continued survival of estuarine crocodiles in the Ayeyarwady Delta.

Status of the Siamese crocodile in Vietnam

Abstract: The Siamese crocodile Crocodylus siamensis, now regarded as one of the world's most endangered crocodilians, was formerly common in the wetlands of southern Vietnam. Populations are thought to have declined in recent years, although quantitative status assessments are unavailable. We surveyed five areas previously believed to harbour the only remaining Siamese crocodile populations in Vietnam, and our results strongly suggest that viable populations are no longer extant. Crocodiles were not observed during spotlight counts of Crocodile Swamp (Nam Cat Tien National Park) or Lac Lake. Crocodiles do not occur in Upper or Lower Krong Pach Reservoirs, and these degraded sites no longer constitute suitable habitat. Remnant populations may exist in the Sere Pok River and Tay Son Lake, but these crocodiles remain subject to persecution. Population declines are attributed to a combination of hunting, habitat destruction, incidental capture in fishing nets and collecting for crocodile farms. Reintroduction to Nam Cat Tien National Park is recommended.

Great bustards Otis tarda in Morocco: status in spring 1999 and evidence of a decline in recent decades

Abstract: A spring (1999) census was conducted of successful breeding in 1998. We argue that the small number of birds, a population sex ratio of 1 : 3.3 in great bustards Otis tarda in north-western Morocco, favour of females, evidence for a range contraction, and where a poorly known population of this species oc- curs. Sixty-four birds were seen in four distinct areas. probable isolation from other great bustard populations mean that this population is now extremely endan- Adult males were seen displaying at three of these areas, indicating that they are probably traditional lek gered and will decline to extinction unless conservation measures are implemented immediately. sites. No adult males were observed in the fourth area and its status as a lek site is uncertain. Two further sites

Amphibians and reptiles of the Dominican Republic: species of special concern

Abstract: The Dominican Republic faces multiple threats to biodiversity. A list of native species of am- orata are very localized and the previously widespread ranges of the others have shrunk or become fragmented. phibians and reptiles (excluding sea turtles) is pre- A toad (Bufo fluviaticus), a large galliwasp (Celestus sented. Some may have become extinct recently, substantial populations of others have been extirpated, anelpistus), and a snake (Alsophis melanichnus) have not some have greatly reduced numbers, and others appear been collected recently. Only a few specimens of an- other galliwasp (C. carraui ) and a dwarf gecko (Sphaero- to be rare or have restricted ranges. Most of the 13 taxa listed are relatively large, vulnerable to human exploi- dactylus cochranae) have been taken recently. In addition, extensive portions of the habitats of these species have tation or introduced predators, and:or have limited distributions and specific habitat requirements. To be been severely altered. Three other snakes (Alsophis anomalus, Ialtris agyrtes, I. dorsalis) are rare and may never

The occurrence of the flat-headed cat Prionailurus planiceps in south-east Sumatra

Abstract: Three incidental sightings of the flat-headed cat Prionailurus planiceps, a little-known species, were made in south-east Sumatra. Sightings were on lowland floodplains in two distinct habitats, primary peat swamp forest and secondary lowland forest, the latter suggesting some tolerance to modified habitats. Sightings were along or near waterways. A dead adult male found in Berbak National Park is the first confirmed record for the park. Morphometrics of this individual were consistent with other published measurements for the species. Museum specimens indicate a wide historic distribution in south-east Sumatra. Recent information confirms the species's presence in protected areas of eastern, southern and western Sumatra, although this is mostly limited to presence/absence data, and the conservation status and habitat requirements of the species in south-east Sumatra are unknown. Regional degradation of riparian habitats and the isolation of protected areas warrant concern for the conservation status of the species.

Preliminary observations on the distribution and status of dwarf blue sheep Pseudois schaeferi

Abstract: Dwarf blue sheep Pseudois schaeferi are known to survive only in Batang County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China. According to the results of a survey between 19 November and 21 December 1997, the species has declined steeply in both range and numbers since the 1950s and 1960s because of excessive hunting. The survey found that dwarf blue sheep were concentrated on steep cliffs between 2700 and 3200 m. In the area near Batang, the species's range was estimated to cover 295 sq km and the population to number c. 200 individuals. The average group size was 6.2 individuals, with a male : female ratio of 67.7 : 100. The authors recommend that the species be included in Class I of the National List of Protected Animals in China.

Threats to the maleo Macrocephalon maleo and recommendations for its conservation

Abstract: The maleo Macrocephalon maleo (Megapodiidae; Galliformes) is a megapode, endemic to Sulawesi, Indonesia, that lays its eggs communally in geothermally or solar-heated soil. The majority of maleo nesting grounds are threatened to some degree and over one-third of known sites have been abandoned. Maleos are severely threatened by habitat degradation and uncontrolled egg-collecting. Hunting of adult birds is also contributing to their decline in some areas. Conservation measures implemented so far have not been sufficiently effective in preventing maleo population declines. In order to safeguard the maleo from further declines we recommend that the laws protecting the maleo and its habitat be strengthened as a matter of urgency and that long-term community conservation and environmental awareness projects be implemented. To achieve these goals we advocate the formation of a collaborative network of international NGOs, Indonesian conservationists, government departments and local communities.

Importance of Furugelm Island in the Sea of Japan for wetland birds: the first record of a breeding colony of the Chinese egret Egretta eulophotes

Abstract: A new breeding site of the globally threatened Chinese egret Egretta eulophotes was recorded on Furugelm Island in the summer of 1998. The discovery of this colony moves the breeding limit of the species more than 600 km further to the north-east in the Sea of Japan. Thirty to forty pairs of Chinese egrets were discovered on the island, which is also home to thousands of colonial seabirds as well. The egret's colony is within the Far-Eastern Marine Reserve but some of its main foraging sites lie outside the protected area and are disturbed by both tourists and hunters. More worryingly, however, the main threat to the Chinese egret's survival is a new economic development project: the Tumen River Area Development Program. We make an urgent plea for the protection of the Chinese egrets' foraging areas within the Far-Eastern Marine Reserve and recommend that a transfrontier reserve be created to enhance the protection of this important waterbird site.

Business and biodiversity—a mutually profitable partnership

Abstract: The first week in April marks the staging of a major international conference, at London's Chatham House, entitled 'Biodiversity and Business—Putting Principles into Action'. Supported by Fauna & Flora International's (FFI) Global Business Partnership and the Dutch and British Governments, the event' provides a forum to discuss business opportunities, trailblazing initiatives and corporate strategy in the context of biodiversity conservation and sustainable use. The conference is an indication of how far we have come since the 'us and them' days of the donor-recipient relationship, where money changed hands across an unbridgeable philosophical divide. In recent years, the relationship between charity and business has developed into a genuine partnership. The opportunism of the one-off financial transaction has given way to a spirit of longterm collaboration, where finance is just one part of a multifaceted and mutually beneficial association. Refusing to work with the business community, therefore, is no longer simply a case of biting the hand that feeds. In the current global economic climate, a reluctance to engage in meaningful dialogue has much broader ecological and social repercussions.