Anthropogenic impacts on the occurrence of the critically endangered Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) in Nepal

Abstract

Biodiversity is being threatened by human activities worldwide. Inside protected areas, anthropogenic activities are mostly under control. However, outside protected areas, threatened or endangered species still need protection, and identification of a species' habitat requirements is essential for conservation planning. We gathered information on habitat characteristics of and anthropogenic threats to the Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla), a critically endangered species for which such baseline data are scarce. We found closed-canopy forest nearest water sources at an altitude from 555 to 1,740 m to be suitable habitat for Chinese pangolins. Forest fires, livestock grazing, distance to nearest footpath, and distance to nearest household were negatively associated with presence of Chinese pangolins. To protect the Chinese pangolin outside of the reserve system, we recommend public awareness programs and campaigns to protect habitat in addition to directly protecting this species against hunting and trading.