UPDATING SPATIAL INFORMATION OF 27 MAMMAL SPECIES IN NEPAL

Authors: H. B. Katuwal, H. P. Sharma, P. J. L. Shaner, R. Gurung, V. Thapa, T. G. Magar, T. B. Gurung, K., Parajuli, M. B. Gurung, H. Basnet, S. Koirala, M. S. Ghimire, S. Yadav, J. L. Belant, K. Shah Small Mammals Conservation, Research Foundation, Kathmandu, Nepal, Bird Conservation Nepal, Lazimpat
Journal: Journal of Animal and Plant Sciences (JAPS)
ISSN: 1018-7081 (Print), 2309-8694 (Online)
Volume: 28  Issue: 6  Pages: 1735-1745
Year: 2018
DOI: NA
URL: https://doi.org/NA
Publisher: Pakistan Agricultural Scientists Forum

Abstract:
Information on species distribution range is a prerequisite for setting conservation strategies. Conservation efforts in Nepal have been focused on flagship species, such as Bengal Tiger ( Pantheratigris) , Asian Elephant (Elephasmaximus) and Greater One-horned Rhinoceros (Rhinocerosunicornis) . By contrast, distribution data and conservation efforts for other mammalian species are scarce. Here we documented the spatial locations of 27 mammal species based on direct sightings and photographic evidence from 70 m to 4,800 m of elevation across Nepal. We mapped their geographic distributions, delineated their elevation ranges and summarized the potential threats within their distribution ranges. We observed expanded elevation range forc. 30% of the 27 species ( 8 species), with the most noticeable upward expansion of the Common Palm Civet (Paradoxurushermaphroditus) from <1,500 m to 2,990 m, and downward expansion of the Fawn-colored Mouse (Muscervicolor) from >1,150 m to 200 m. These updated, high-quality spatial information on a subset of Nepalsdiverse mammalian fauna, highlight new opportunities to study the effects of climate change on mammals in the Himalayan region. and CsorbasMouse-eared Myotis (Myotis csorbai)

Keywords: altitudinal distribution, geographic distribution, range shift, threatened species, wildlife.