| Andreas Wilting |
| M.Sc.Student, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research |
| Consequences of Different Forest Management Strategies for Clouded Leopards and Other Felids and Viverrids in Sabah, Malaysia |
| Location: Sabah, Malaysia |
| Species/Group: Felidae and Viverridae |
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| Abstract: Many carnivores are under severe threat from permanent loss of suitable habitat. To ensure their long-term protection, an ecologically and economically sustainable large scale habitat management is required. Here we will evaluate the consequences of different forms of forest exploitation for the distribution of felids and viverrids in Sabah. An extensive network of camera traps and day/night transect surveys will be used to gain information about occupancy, abundance and ecology of these predators in four study sites. This knowledge will be of essential value for the effective conservation of these threatened species. Additionally, GIS and remote sensing analysis will be applied to develop landscape species specific distribution models. These models will be used to compile conservation concepts and suggestions to improve habitat management. Local counterparts will be involved throughout this study with rangers and students being trained to ensure a consistent and useful long-term monitoring effort after the current project. |
