Home ranges and activity patterns of Sunda pangolins Manis javanica (Pholidota: Manidae) in Vietnam

• Published in: Journal of Asia-Pacific biodiversity Vol. 16; no. 3; pp. 421 - 431
• Main Authors: Gray, Russell J., Van Le, Dung, Thi Thanh Nguyen, Huyen, Nhat Cau, Long, Van Nguyen, Tan, Van Pham, Thong, Willcox, Daniel, Chen, Tiffany, Van Nguyen, Thai
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier 01.09.2023; 국립중앙과학관
• Subjects: activity period; AKDE; home range; Manis javanica; Sunda pangolin; 생물학
• ISSN: 2287-884X; 2287-9544
• DOI: 10.1016/j.japb.2023.05.005

This study provides an update on the movement ecology of the Sunda pangolin (Manis javanica) in three distinct ecoregions of Vietnam. Using radio telemetry, we tracked 12 pangolins rescued from the illegal wildlife trade and translocated to protected areas. We found that the average home range of translocated Sunda pangolins was 1.58 km2 and did not vary significantly between sexes, mass, or habitat. However, there was a marked decrease in range size with decreasing sizes of suitable forest space and terrain, or a localized abundance of resources in some locations. Pangolins were most active from 03:00 to 04:00. The study highlights the need for further research to fully understand the ecology of this unique and enigmatic species.