First structured camera-trap surveys in Karen State, Myanmar, reveal high diversity of globally threatened mammals

摘要: The hill forests of Karen State, Myanmar, were previously inaccessible to biologists and conservationists for security political reasons. We have, however, now been able conduct six surveys across the area, using camera traps, a total 9,511 trap-nights, ascertain presence threatened mammal species. obtained 4,191 records at least 31 species, including 17 categorized as Near Threatened, Vulnerable or Endangered on IUCN Red List. Carnivores especially diverse, with 19 species recorded, indicating globally significant community, tiger Panthera tigris, leopard pardus dhole Cuon alpinus. Our methodology was not appropriate estimating relative abundance occupancy but richness number locations where detected suggest area is important conservation community that in decline majority its range. Despite long-standing efforts undertaken by people, their are hunting habitat loss. These threats likely be exacerbated change brings rapid development. Urgent action thus needed assist people protect one South-east Asia's last intact rich diverse ecosystems.