A multi-scale, multivariate habitat selection model demonstrates high potential for the reintroduction of the clouded leopard Neofelis nebulosa to Taiwan

• Published in: Oryx pp. 1 - 4
• Main Authors: Wang, Yifeng, Kaszta, Żaneta, Cushman, Samuel A, Chiang, Po-Jen, Macdonald, David W, Hearn, Andrew J
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Cambridge University Press 21.10.2024
• Subjects: Clouded leopard; conservation strategy; habitat suitability; multi-scale habitat selection; Neofelis nebulosa; reintroduction; Taiwan
• ISSN: 0030-6053; 1365-3008
• DOI: 10.1017/S0030605324000802

Abstract Hunting, habitat loss and fragmentation have caused a rapid decline in the distribution and abundance of the clouded leopard Neofelis nebulosa across its range, and in several areas, including Taiwan, the species is now extirpated. Taiwan, a former stronghold for the species, is a candidate for its reintroduction, based on increasing prey abundance and high forest coverage. Such future reintroduction efforts, however, are hampered by a lack of analysis of potential clouded leopard habitat on the island. To address this, we explore habitat suitability for the species in Taiwan. We used a multi-scale, multivariate habitat selection model based on clouded leopard presence–absence data from extensive camera-trap surveys across its current range to predict suitable habitat in Taiwan. Our findings indicate that 38% of Taiwanese territory is potentially suitable habitat for the clouded leopard, of which 46% is under protection. This demonstrates the high potential of Taiwan's habitat for clouded leopard reintroduction.