IUCN / SSC Cat Specialist Group - Digital Cat Library |
|
||||||||||
|
||||||||||
|
|
| Edwards, S.; Portas, R.; Hanssen, L.; Beytell, P.; Melzheimer, J.; Stratford, K. | |
| The spotted ghost: Density and distribution of serval _Leptailurus serval_ in Namibia | |
| 2018 African Journal of Ecology (56): 831-840 | |
Despite its IUCN Red List status as "least concern," relatively few studies have been conducted on serval _Leptailurus serval_. Within Namibia, serval are detected infrequently, even during prolonged camera trapping surveys, which has been suggested as indicative of low density. Such populations are vulnerable to habitat loss and degradation; therefore, quantifying serval population density and distribution within Namibia is an important first step in establishing conservation needs. We present the first density estimates of serval for Namibia, from Khaudum National Park and the Mudumu North Complex (MNC). Using Bayesian spatial capture-recapture models, density was estimated at 1.28 serval/100 km2 (ñ 0.23, 0.82-1.56) for Khaudum and 0.63 serval/100 km2 (ñ 0.51, 0.38-0.90) for the MNC; the lowest serval densities published to date. Photographic records from the two surveys, along with an additional 10 records from MNC captured outside of the survey period and two new records from north-central Namibia were used to update the Namibian distribution map. This resulted in the highest probability of occurrence along the north-eastern borders. Such results imply Namibia hosts a low-density, geographically limited population, potentially vulnerable to habitat fragmentation and other environmental impacts, and therefore requires careful management to ensure its persistence. |
|
 |
PDF files are only accessible to Friends of the Cat Group. Joining Friends of the Cat Group gives you unlimited access and downloads in the Cat SG Library for one year, and allows you to receive our newsletter Cat News (2 regular issues per year plus special issues). More information how to join here |
(c) IUCN/SSC Cat Specialist Group ( IUCN - The World Conservation Union) |