Population decline of Macaca sylvanus in the middle atlas of Morocco

摘要: Abstract An eight-year-long census and habitat evaluation of the Macaca sylvanus population was conducted in a 484-km2 area central region Middle Atlas Mountains Morocco between June 1994 October 2002. The authors walked 93.5-km circuit – divided into 16 transect segments 30 times with teams trained research assistant volunteers, collecting data on total 2,805 linear km. Previous studies had reported an average density 44–70 individuals per km2, while from present study indicate progressive decline, 25 to down current 7–10 I/km2. decline is attributed loss prime habitat, mainly cedar forest, which has significantly decreased 2002, due growing impact overgrazing by mixed flocks goats sheep consequent forest degradation. At present, human-caused deterioration risks further compromising future world’s only remaining large M. population.