bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Island Paradise for Wildlife and People
Authors: McNeely Jeffrey A.
Published: April 2009

Siberut, the largest of the Mentawai Islands, has a remarkable fauna with at least ten endemic mammal species — which include four primates — one endemic bird, thirteen endemic bird subspecies, and probably endemic insects, reptiles and amphibians still to be discovered. Until the 20th century the Siberut people lived in harmony with their environment, but modern practices are changing their ways, destroying their culture, and threatening the wildlife. The author describes the wildlife, the people, and the programme planned to help both in this difficult transition.
Sealion Survey in the Falklands
Authors: Strange Ian
Published: April 2009

In 1965 the author, a resident of the Falkland Islands, made an aerial survey of seal populations, concentrating mainly on sealions, because numbers appeared to be declining. His results showed a drastic decline in sealion numbers, and he believes that they are still a fair indication of the situation today. In this article he surveys the history of sealing in the islands, describes his census, discusses results and the possible causes for the decline, and urges the need for a full official census.
Snow Leopards in Nepal
Authors: Jackson Rodney
Published: April 2009

Snow leopards are shy and nocturnal, inhabiting high and difficult mountain country. Nevertheless the author, who spent two months in the winter of 1976–77 in the Langu Valley in the Nepalese Himalaya, is convinced that numbers are declining due to over-hunting, a decline in their natural prey, and the increased use of alpine pastures by man and his livestock. Probably none of Nepal's mountain parks harbour snow leopards, and a large sanctuary for them is urgently needed.
Why Did the Large Blue Become Extinct in Britain?
Authors: Thomas Jeremy
Published: April 2009

In 1979 the Nature Conservancy Council revealed that the large blue butterfly Maculinea arion was probably extinct in Britain, despite much research and valiant efforts to save it. The author, a member of the Institute of Terrestrial Ecology, who since 1972 has been engaged full time on the research and conservation work for the butterfly, tells the story as it is now known.
Gorilla-Eaters of Gabon
Authors: Harcourt A. H. , Stewart K. J.
Published: April 2009

‘Gorillas destroy our crops and they are vicious animals’, the authors were told last December in Gabon, where, along with Professor Roger Short and Dr Richard Wrangham, they were investigating the status of gorillas and chimpanzees. Gorillas can be shot on sight, and both animals are killed for meat. Gabon people are predominantly rural, and because they are so dependent on the forests for food, it may be that the Government will preserve these, and with them the wildlife, despite impending large-scale development.
Can Addax and Oryx be saved in the Sahel?
Authors: Newby John
Published: April 2009

Very few reserves exist to protect the arid-lands fauna of West Africa, particularly in the sub-desert zone, and the large mammals, such as addax, scimitar-horned oryx and dama gazelle are disappearing. New reserves are planned but they could be too late. Many permanent waterholes have been dug, and the nomads (and their livestock) tend to stay near them, depriving the wild animals of their traditional dry-season haunts. Firearms have made hunting easier, and the slow-running desert animals cannot compete with motor vehicles – many die of heat exhaustion, calves are abandoned in the chase and unborn young aborted. Rational utilisation of wildlife could be of immense benefit to the people, but protection is the first priority. To achieve this FPS and PTES have launched an appeal for the scimitarhorned oryx.
Pampas Deer in Uruguay
Authors: Jackson John , Landa Pete , Langguth Alfredo
Published: April 2009

Pampas deer, which are on the verge of extinction in Argentina, have declined in Uruguay to an estimated 1000 animals. Mostly they occur in small scattered herds, which have survived because of their remoteness and the absence of sheep, and because a small number of landowners have protected them. Sheep, however, are likely to spread because rising oil prices have made synthetic fibres more expensive and wool more competitive. The authors recommend the measures that should be taken quickly, including action against poaching, a study to find out the deer's needs, and steps to set up both reserves and captive breeding units.
Beware the Alligators?
Authors: Whalley Paul
Published: April 2009

Are we too careless about the dangers of accidental introductions? Were the first Colorado beetles taken seriously? What about insect introductions in the waterweeds that come with tropical fish?
Nigeria's Star Game Reserve
Authors: Geerling Chris
Published: April 2009

One of the few conservation success stories in West Africa is Yankari Game Reserve in Nigeria, where, thanks to effective management, animal populations have increased to a level at which environmental factors (not human ones) have started to control numbers. Yankari offers the rare spectacle of an effective and efficiently managed reserve with an abundance of animals, which attracts increasing interest from Nigerians.
Parks and Reserves in Congo Brazzaville
Authors: Spinage C. A.
Published: April 2009

Little is known about the wildlife of the People's Republic of the Congo – Congo Brazzaville. Because the land was once entirely forest almost the only large mammals are those of forest habitat. The author, who went on a two-week mission for FAO/UNDP in 1978, describes the few protected areas, which include one national park, and also the area proposed for a new national park where manatees are thought to be ‘not uncommon’.
Who really threatens whales and seals?
Authors: Holt Sidney
Published: April 2009

The long-sought decision made by the International Whaling Commission (IWC) in 1982 to ban all commercial whaling after 1985 does not mean that conservationists can relax, confident of a safe future for the whales. The IWC was a source of anger or despair for conservationists for the first three decades of its existence according to Dr Sidney Holt who here describes its successes and failures, its reforms and near break-ups. It could, even now, if the 1982 decision is not upheld, preside over the near extinction of Bryde's and minke whales as it did of the blue and humpback whales. Dr Holt is hopeful for the future but insists that we must take the current threats to whales and seals seriously: pollution of several kinds; the unsound basis of scientific advice; commercial fisheries that regard some cetaceans as pests; and the utilitarianism that governs so many of our dealings with the natural world. He makes a plea for the preservation of these animals, not for their direct use to us as a source of food or foreign exchange, but because ‘they can gently and profoundly please us and help us know ourselves’. The following is a shortened version of the author's address to the Society at its AGM in October 1982; Dr Holt is Vice-Chairman for marine matters of IUCN's SSC, Marine Consultant to the ffPS and scientific adviser to the Seychelles delegations to IWC and CITES.
News and Views
Authors: Collins Mark
Published: April 2009

When is a protected butterfly no longer protected? The answer seems to be when it gets in the way of big business interests, or so a recent case in the USA indicates. The US Fish and Wildlife Service decided in mid-March that part of a mountain containing federally protected butterflies could be bulldozed as long as other areas were maintained in perpetuity for conservation purposes.
Wildlife conservation in the southern Sudan
Authors: Lever Sir Christopher
Published: April 2009

The wildlife of southern Sudan is profuse and diverse but its potential for tourism is scarcely developed. Its conservation is hampered by fuel shortages and the inaccessible nature of the country, and heavily armed poachers have slaughtered large numbers of elephants for ivory. The author, who visited the country in 1982, reports on the conservation work that is being carried out despite the problems.
A successful reintroduction of European otters
Authors: Wayre Philip
Published: April 2009

When the Otter Trust was set up in the UK in 1972, one of its long-term intentions was to restore European otters to suitable wild habitat. In 1982, this aim came to fruition with the release of three captive-bred otters into a river in East Anglia. These otters have now bred in the wild and further releases continue to add to the success of the project. The author is Chairman of the Otter Trust.
Recovery of green turtles on Aldabra
Authors: Mortimer Jeanne A.
Published: April 2009

The numbers of green turtles that nest on Aldabra's beaches have increased significantly in the past 20 years. The author, who studied the turtles between 1981 and 1984, suggests explanations for the recovery. It is likely that the Aldabra population is still well below that which thrived there before exploitation began, and with sustained conservation efforts turtle numbers could continue to increase.
The rehabilitated chimpanzees of Rubondo Island
Authors: Borner Monica
Published: April 2009

Between 1966 and 1969 17 chimpanzees, which had all been captured in the wild and had spent various amounts of time in European zoos, were released in Rubondo Island National Park in Lake Victoria, Tanzania. Now there is a healthy population of at least 20 chimpanzees, and it is likely that there is now a second generation of Rubondo-born animals. The author, who has been recording sightings of the chimpanzees since 1978, discusses this early rehabilitation experiment, sets it in the context of others and examines the problems of how best to cope with those animals that are confiscated while enforcing the laws prohibiting the capture of wild chimpanzees.
The marine turtles of Belize
Authors: Moll Don
Published: April 2009

When the author visited Belize in 1983 and 1984 to survey the turtle fauna of that country, to which the Oryx 100% Fund contributed £500, he was able to collect some information on the three marine turtle species that nest on Belize's beaches and forage along the coast. All three species are exploited in the country and, although there is a degree of legal protection, the ban on egg-collecting is widely ignored, turtles are taken for their meat in the closed season, and tortoise-shell jewellery and curios still find a ready market among tourists from abroad.
The London Pond Survey
Authors: Langton Thomas
Published: April 2009

London has far fewer ponds than it had 100 years ago. In some parts 90 per cent of ponds have been lost since 1870, although the creation of gravel pits and lakes has compensated to a small extent. Such declines have made those ponds that are left of supreme importance for nature conservation, but many are neglected and harbour only remnants of their once rich flora and fauna. In 1984 Thomas Langton carried out a survey of London's ponds and other areas of standing water with the aim of identifying which ponds needed saving and managing for wildlife. This much needed work was made possible by the Greater London Council, which gave a grant to the FFPS for the purpose.
The impact of tsetse fly control campaigns on African wildlife
Authors: Matthiessen Peter , Douthwaite Bob
Published: April 2009

From its earliest years, the Society's journal has carried reports on the tsetse problem in Africa. Between the 1920s and 1960s, attempts to eradicate the flies from many parts of the country resulted in the slaughter of 1.3 million game animals and extensive bush clearance, which permanently destroyed wildlife habitat. By the early 1970s, the use of insecticides had largely replaced these drastic techniques, but this, in its turn, with the environmental side-effects, caused much concern amongst wildlife conservationists. The authors review the history of tsetse control and discuss the new, safer methods that have been developed, as well as others still under trial. It is clear, however, that tsetse eradication will continue to be controversial. The development of safer and environmentally acceptable techniques does not solve a more fundamental problem—the wise use of Africa's land. Clearing the land of tsetse can open the path to its ruin by unsustainable pastoral encroachment. It is of interest that in April 1985, the EEC governments forced the EEC Commission to modify its forthcoming programme of tsetse fly eradication in four countries by insisting that environmentally harmful methods using DDT should not be employed. The Commission was also forced to include a three-year project on area development planning—land-use considerations were originally not included in its proposals.
The deteriorating status of African rhinos
Authors: Western David , Vigne Lucy
Published: April 2009

Rhinos have given conservationists cause for concern for many decades, and there have been regular reports inOryxof their deteriorating status in several countries. Now the authors, former Chairman and Executive Officer, respectively, of the IUCN/SSC African Elephant and Rhino Specialist Group, give an up-to-date account of rhinos in Africa, their numbers, distribution, and descriptions of areas where they are particularly vulnerable, as well as those where conservation action is having a positive effect.
Game farming in South Africa as a force in conservation
Authors: Luxmoore Richard
Published: April 2009

There are perhaps 7000–10,000 formers in South Africa who derive some income from game farming. They sell the meat, sell live animals to other formers, allow hunters to shoot animals for trophies, or allow tourists onto their land for game viewing. The system has benefits for both wildlife and the formers, and it is tempting to assume that similar results could be obtained in other African countries. But is its that simple?
Briefly: the Maldive Islands
Authors: Moutou François
Published: April 2009

The author made a brief visit to the Maldive Islands in 1984. These beautiful coral atolls are being rapidly developed for tourism and there is an urgent need to achieve a balance between the attendant changes and wildlife conservation.
A last chance to save the northern white rhino?
Authors: Hillman-Smith Kes , ma Oyisenzoo Mankoto , Smith Fraser
Published: April 2009

The northern subspecies of white rhinoCeratotherium simum cottoniis very close to extinction. Probably fewer than 50 remain in the wild and only 13 are known in captivity. Garamba National Park in northern Zaire contains the only potentially viable group, of 15–20 individuals, and here there is a possibility of action to save them.
Cave bats in Jamaica
Authors: McFarlane Donald A.
Published: April 2009

Jamaica has 22 native mammal species. One of these is an endangered rodent, the Jamaican hutia Geocapromys browni; the rest are all bats. Fifteen of these bats depend entirely or significantly on caves as roost sites, including two endemic species and seven endemic subspecies. These cave-dwelling bats often form large colonies whose guano deposits are of significant economic value as fertilizer, but which are vulnerable to disturbance and roost destruction. The author, who has visited and worked in many of Jamaica's bat caves over the past eight years, is currently researching the evolution and development of the Antillean bat faunas.
Rediscovery of a petrel and new faunal records on Gau Island
Authors: Watling Dick
Published: April 2009

MacGillivray's or the Fiji petrel was known only from a single specimen collected in 1855 on Gau Island. In 1984, after months of searching, a single adult flew into Dick Watling's spotlight and collided with his head. It was examined, photographed and released. Nothing more is yet known about its status or its breeding site, although the latter is suspected to be in the cloud forests of highland Gau. In the course of his visits, the author also made other discoveries about the Island's poorly studied fauna.
Collecting the Mallorcan midwife toad
Authors: Tonge Simon
Published: April 2009

The Mallorcan midwife toad was described, from subfossil remains, as recently as 1977, and it was not until 1980 that some living tadpoles were recognized as belonging to this new species. Once widespread in Mallorca, now perhaps only 1000–1500 adult toads remain, in secret and remote gorges in the mountains. In order to provide a safety net, should catastrophe strike at the fragile wild populations, the Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust offered to set up a captive-breeding programme for the toad. In 1985 the author set out to collect eight toads, to be the founders of the captive colony. The FFPS contributed £85 from its Oryx 100% Fund towards the expedition.
The rat problem on oceanic islands—research is needed
Authors: Wace N. M.
Published: April 2009

In October 1983 a rat was reported to have been seen on Gough Island, an outlier of the Tristan da Cunha Group in the South Atlantic. Gough Island has no permanently resident human inhabitants, but supports one of the largest and most diverse assemblages of breeding seabirds now remaining anywhere in the temperate zones. The author was a member of a small team of biologists that spent three weeks on Gough Island, in October-November 1984, to try to confirm whether there were any rats on the island, and if so to make recommendations for their control and extermination. The following proposals result from experience in carrying out this survey, and from writing World Conservation Strategy proposals for Oceanic Islands for the IUCN.
A park with a kangaroo problem
Authors: Cheal David
Published: April 2009

Hattah-Kulkyne National Park in Victoria, Australia, is a large reserve important for its vegetation communities, These were once extensive in the region, but are now reduced to remnants due to clearance for agriculture. The vegetation in the Park has suffered from overgrazing, and the rehabilitation programme includes culling kangaroos. Population management of this kind often generates controversy, and the author, a research botanist, explains why it is necessary in this Park.
Arabian ungulates—their status and future protection
Authors: Habibi Khushal
Published: April 2009

Ungulate populations are at a low ebb in Saudi Arabia. Indiscriminate hunting and habitat degradation are the main factors causing population declines in three of the five endemic species. The author collected information on the status of these animals while working as a wildlife ecologist for the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations in the northern province of Al-Jouf.
A river journey through Gunung Leuser National Park, Sumatra
Authors: Ghiglieri Michael P.
Published: April 2009

The Gunung Leuser National Park, established by the Indonesian Government in 1980, covers more than 7900 sq km of forests, ranging from tropical lowland to subalpine. It protects many endangered and threatened species. In October 1984 the author, acting as a biologist and guide on an exploratory rafting expedition, floated along the Alas River, which runs through the Park. He describes his journey and the primates he recorded along the way.
Agricultural encroachment in Uganda's Kibale Forest
Authors: Orsdol Karl G. Van
Published: April 2009

During Uganda's political troubles in the 1970s the country's few remaining natural forests suffered acutely from illegal human encroachment, poor management practices and poaching of endangered forest wildlife. While the Kibale Forest suffered from many problems, agricultural encroachment alone destroyed some 97 sq km, or 17 per cent, of the Reserve between 1971 and 1982. In 1983 the Government of Uganda initiated steps to halt the spread of encroachment and to reassert authority over its forest resources.
Does Sweden have room for its wolves?
Authors: Mills Stephen
Published: April 2009

Just before Christmas 1985 wolf researchers in Sweden made a particularly ugly discovery: the ritually mutilated corpse of an 18-month-old pup. It had been shot and scalped, its ears removed and a hind leg cut off. Then, in February 1986, another young wolf was chased along a forest track by a car, which smashed its back legs and killed it. These are merely the latest incidents in an irrational anti-wolf campaign, which is threatening the species's tentative come-back in Scandinavia. The author, who has worked extensively with Scandinavian conservationists since 1971, describes the plight of Sweden's wolves and explains why it is important to protect them.
Changing habitats of the world
Authors: Holdgate Martin W.
Published: April 2009

The world is being altered by human action more rapidly now than natural forces changed it during any short period in the past. There are predictions of massive ecological changes and extinctions of species on a unprecedented scale. The author examines what is actually happening, what the consequences are likely to be, and what corrective action can be taken. He emphasizes that, as with all exercises in crystal gazing, this cannot be an error-free analysis. Despite the vast scale of current scientific activity, our knowledge of the processes affecting the world environment and our monitoring of changes are far from adequate. Too many statements—including widely quoted estimates of extinctions—are based on extrapolation from limited data. This is a speculative paper intended as a spur to further analysis rather than as a definitive review. It is based on an address to the Annual General Meeting of the Fauna and Flora Preservation Society on 10 September 1986.*
Conservation of gibbons in Yunnan Province, China
Authors: Haimoff Elliott H. , Xiao-Jun Yang , Swing-Jing He , Nan Chen
Published: April 2009

Three gibbon species inhabit the tropical and subtropical forests in China, all of which occur in Yunnan Province: the crested gibbon Hylobates concolor, lar gibbon H. lar, and hoolock gibbon H. hoolock. As a result of deforestation and over-hunting, all three species are gravely endangered in China and may be on the verge of extinction; they are now considered to be the nation's rarest animals. A recent census and survey of crested gibbons in Yunnan Province, partly funded from FFPS's Oryx 100% Fund, revealed new information on the distribution, status and conservation of gibbons in China. The authors made recommendations for future conservation measures, and these are now being considered by the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Chinese Government.
Protection for the great Indian bustard
Authors: Rahmani Asad
Published: April 2009

In 1981, as a result of Dr Sálim Ali's assessment of the deteriorating status of the great Indian bustard, the Bombay Natural History Society embarked on a five-year project to study the ecology and distribution of the bird. The author, who has worked on the great Indian bustard in three places in India and who took part in the BNHS bustard project, describes its findings.
Mass killing by rats of roosting common noddies
Authors: Elst Rudy Van der , Prŷs-Jones Robert P.
Published: April 2009

On a visit to Ile du Lys, Iles Glorieuses, one of the authors witnessed a massive night attack by rats on roosting common noddies. Although introduced rats are known predators of nesting seabirds, there were no previous records of them killing large numbers of non-breeding seabirds. The authors discuss the circumstances of the case and attempt to explain the phenomenon.
Mires in danger in Western Europe
Authors: Oldfield Sara
Published: April 2009

The mires of Western Europe are perhaps the major type of habitat in the region that is of global importance for conservation. They are as well represented in Europe as in any other part of the world, with many distinct and unique types surviving. Mires, wherever they occur, are being destroyed at ever-increasing rates, and measures for their conservation need to be effectively co-ordinated at regional and international levels. The author, who is Symposium Secretary of the International Mire Conservation Group, describes the problems faced by mires in Europe.
The red lechwe of Busanga Plain, Zambia — a conservation success
Authors: Howard G. W. , Chabwela H. N.
Published: April 2009

When the Kafue National Park was established in 1950 the northern boundary was drawn to include the Busanga Plain, where there was a small population of red lechwe, much reduced by hunting. The effect of the protection was striking: numbers began to increase immediately and by 1973 there were 2000 individuals. In 1985 the authors conducted censuses to establish how the antelopes had fared in the intervening years. Their findings reveal just how successful the conservation measures have been.
A park for the Barbary macaques of Gibraltar?
Authors: Fa John E.
Published: April 2009

The two Barbary macaque troops on the Rock of Gibraltar have long attracted countless numbers of tourists, yet no benefit to this endangered species has ever resulted. Rather, some visitors feed and disturb the monkeys of the Queen's Gate group, with drastic consequences for their activity, breeding and general condition. The author, who has worked with the species on the Rock and in the wild in North Africa, proposes the establishment of a park, which would protect the Queen's Gate troop, generate funds for conservation, and act as an education centre.
Introduced birds on Assumption Island — a threat to Aldabra
Authors: Roberts Peter
Published: April 2009

When the Indian Ocean atoll of Aldabra was added to the World Heritage List in 1982 it concluded 20 years of conservation effort to gain international recognition of its scientific importance. Its native wildlife, which is still remarkably intact, is, however, under threat. Only 27 km away, on Assumption Island, introduced bird species have established and are breeding. The author made a survey in October 1986 and among his findings was the particularly alarming discovery of a large population of red-whiskered bulbuls Pycnonotus jocosus, a nest predator of small passerines. Urgent action is required to remove the introduced species from Assumption, not only to protect Aldabra, but also to pave the way for conservation efforts on Assumption itself.
Sleeping sickness control—how wildlife and man could benefit
Authors: Ormerod W. E. , Rickman L. R.
Published: April 2009

Tsetse eradication and control programmes are often carried out in order that cattle can be introduced into the cleared area. The resultant destruction to habitats and wildlife can be considerable, and the majority of Africa's human population does not benefit from increased beef production. The authors say that we need a different approach, one that would concentrate on controlling sleeping sickness in humans, and on conserving the indigenous vegetation and fauna. They illustrate their approach by describing what could be done in a part of northern Zambia where sleeping sickness is endemic.
Black snub-nosed monkeys in China
Authors: De-hua Yang
Published: April 2009

The black snub-nosed monkey Rhinopithecus bieti is facing extinction. Although some work has been done on the other Chinese snub-nosed monkeys, R. roxellanae and R. brelichi, very little is known about R. bieti. The author describes the results of the first detailed ecological survey of this species.
Priority ratings for conservation of Indian primates
Authors: Choudhury Anwaruddin
Published: April 2009

Many of India's primates are threatened, especially by forest destruction, and in some areas they are also hunted for food. The 15 species involved are not threatened equally—some are widespread and common, even in the hearts of cities, while others survive only in small populations over a limited area. In order to make best use of the limited resources available for primate conservation it is necessary to identify those species needing urgent attention. The author, who is at present carrying out research on the primates of Assam, has rated the species according to their conservation needs using a method based on one developed for identifying conservation priorities for African primates. He compares his results with those of the Asian Action Plan for Primates and makes recommendations for conservation action in India.
Tambopata Reserve Zone, South-East Peru
Authors: Stewart Paul D.
Published: April 2009

The Tambopata Reserve Zone covers 55 sq km of tropical rain forest bordering the Tambopata River, a tributary of the upper Amazon. Set up by the Peruvian Government in 1977 to conserve an unusually diverse wildlife community, the reserve has already established a variety of world records for species numbers in vertebrate and invertebrate groups. It also protects a number of threatened species. The fact that the reserve exists at all is largely due to the implementation of a policy that has successfully integrated its conservation objectives with its commercial interests and applied science activities. The author, who worked as a naturalist guide and biologist on the reserve in 1984,1985 and 1986, discusses the importance of this enterprise.
Przewalski's horse — putting the wild horse back in the wild
Authors: Ryder Oliver A.
Published: April 2009

Efforts are under way to re-establish free-living populations of Przewalski's horse Equus przewalskii from zoo-bred individuals. The time is opportune to begin such initiatives as there are more than 660 individuals dispersed in over 70 zoological collections. In addition, the captive population is now increasing rapidly and has the potential to provide reasonable numbers of animals for reintroduction programmes without jeopardizing the maintenance of the population that serves as an ex-situ gene pool nucleus.
The conservation status of the yellow-footed rock-wallaby in Queensland
Authors: Gordon Gregory , McRae Peter , Lim Leong , Reimer Darryl , Porter Gary
Published: April 2009

A survey of the distribution of the yellow-footed rock-wallaby Petrogale xanthopus was carried out in Queensland from 1984 to 1987. The species was found at 44 sites to the north and north-west of Adavale in south-western Queensland, mainly in the rugged country along the edges of low sandstone tablelands and hills. The size of the rock-wallaby population could not be estimated with accuracy, but is considered to be of the order of 5000–10,000 animals. The species is vulnerable because of property development in the area and possibly because of competition from other herbivores. The authors recommend regular monitoring of the population size.
Tanzanian coastal forests – new information on status and biological importance
Authors: Burgess Neil D. , Dickinson Alex , Payne Nicholas H.
Published: April 2009

This paper presents the current results of a continuing survey of the distribution, status and biological importance of Tanzanian coastal forests. The Frontier-Tanzania Coastal Forest Research Programme has shown that at least 34 locations, and possibly another eight, support important coastal forests. There are probably 350–500 sq km of forest remaining, with most sites smaller than 20 sq km. Most sites, and 75–85 per cent of the total area, are located in Forest Reserves. Coastal forest supports many endemic taxa and many individual forests support species and subspecies known from nowhere else. All these forests are severely threatened and effective conservation action is a priority. The Frontier-Tanzania project findings are contributing to conservation programmes co-ordinated by the Wildlife Conservation Society of Tanzania and the World Wide Fund for Nature (Tanzania).
Sibuyan Island in the Philippines – threatened and in need of conservation
Authors: Goodman S. M. , Ingle N. R.
Published: April 2009

In the spring of 1992 a group of zoologists completed a faunal survey of Sibuyan Island, a small mountainous island in the central Philippines. This island, which is oceanic in origin and during the Pleistocene at least was not connected to any other island mass, has an exceptional amount of intact primary forest, including lowland forest, a habitat that has all but been destroyed in the Philippines. The mammalian fauna of Sibuyan Island is exceptionally high in endemic species and also contains many other species that are threatened throughout the Philippines. Current logging operations severely threaten the remaining areas of lowland forest on the island. With forests of the Philippines under intense pressure, the most realistic hope for conservation lies in the protection of forests on islands where the population and political pressures are less intense. Sibuyan Island is an excellent candidate for such initiative.
Status of the West Indian snakeChironius vincenti
Authors: Henderson Robert W. , Haas Gary T.
Published: April 2009

The snake Chironius vincenti (Colubridae) is endemic to the West Indian island of St Vincent, and for many years herpetologists considered the species to be extinct. Recent field work has indicated that it still survives but that it is restricted to primary and secondary rain forest (at elevations between 275 and 600 m) primarily on the leeward side of the island and that it probably occurs at low population densities. The range of C. vincenti appears to overlap widely with that of the endangered St Vincent parrot (Amazona guildingii) and the snake will gain significant, direct benefits front the protection afforded the parrot.
Three new mountain national parks for Uganda
Authors: Butynski Thomas M. , Kalina Jan
Published: April 2009

For many years the Fauna and Flora Preservation Society has supported efforts to conserve forests in the Albertine Rift Afromontane Region of east-central Africa. The biodiversity of these forests is especially high but most have been destroyed or badly degraded. There are a large number of local, national and international initiatives to conserve at least some of the forests that remain. In 1991 Uganda created the Rwenzori Mountains, Mgahinga Gorilla, and Bwindi-Impenetrable National Parks, thus protecting all three of its Albertine Rift montane forests. This paper presents a synopsis of the conservation values of these three parks, and describes the conservation problems and the efforts to help ensure their proper development and long-term viability. Considerable progress towards the conservation of all three areas has already been made and future prospects are good, particularly for the mountain gorilla Gorilla gorilla beringei.
How caimans protect fish stocks in western Brazilian Amazonia – a case for maintaining the ban on caiman hunting
Authors: Peres Carlos A. , Carkeek Anina M.
Published: April 2009

Rubber tapper communities along the large white-water rivers of central-western Brazilian Amazonia rely heavily on local fish stocks all year round. This subsistence fishing faces severe competition from commercial fishing boats from urban centres, which in some areas have over-fished the economically most important fish species. In the Juntá River and its oxbow lakes, two species of freshwater crocodilians – the black and the spectacled caiman – indirectly benefit subsistence fishermen by disrupting commercial fishing operations. The gill-nets used by commercial fishing boats are often damaged beyond immediate repair by the caimans as they make easy pickings of the catch. This appears to deter overharvesting of important fish stocks in many sections of the river. In contrast, subsistence fishermen use fishing gear that is rarely damaged by caimans. It would seem that caimans at their present numbers offer protection to local fish stocks by reducing the efficiency and financial viability of commercial fisheries, which would otherwise rapidly reduce fish yields for local rubber tappers.
A new look at the Himalayan fur trade
Authors: Heinen Joel T. , Leisure Blair
Published: April 2009

In late December 1991 and January 1992 the authors surveyed tourist shops selling fur and other animal products in Kathmandu, Nepal. Comparing the results with a study conducted 3 years earlier showed that the number of shops had increased, but indirect evidence suggested that the demand for their products may have decreased. There was still substantial trade in furs, most of which appeared to have come from India, including furs from species that are protected in India and Nepal. While both Nepali and Indian conservation legislation are adequate to control the illegal wildlife trade, there are problems in implementation: co-ordination between the two countries, as well as greater law enforcement within each country, are needed
Bilkis gazelle in Yemen – status and taxonomic relationships
Authors: Greth Arnaud , Williamson Douglas , Groves Colin , Schwede Georg , Vassart Marc
Published: April 2009

Bilkis gazelle Gazella bilkis was first described in 1985 from material collected in Yemen in 1951. No new information about the species has been forthcoming since then and the animal's current status is uncertain in two respects. First, it is difficult to establish the taxonomic relationship between G. bilkis and a possible subspecies of the Arabian gazelle, G. gazella erlangeri, which also occurs in the south-west Arabian peninsula. Secondly, uncontrolled hunting and the general lack of conservation measures in Yemen mean that, if it does still survive, its continued existence is far from assured. Systematic field surveys and taxonomic research are urgently needed to clarify the status of this animal and draw up conservation measures.
Discovery and conservation of the Vu Quang ox in Vietnam
Authors: Van Dung Vu , Giao Pham Mong , Chinh Nguyen Ngoc , Tuoc Do , MacKinnon John
Published: April 2009

In May 1992 the discovery of three pairs of horns in the only remaining area of pristine forest in northern Vietnam led to the description of a new species of ox. A total of 20 specimens have now been found, most of them consisting of only the horns and part of the skull. The Ministry of Forestry in Vietnam is enlarging and upgrading protected areas in the suspected 4000-sq-km range of the Vu Quang ox and surveys are under way in two proposed reserves in neighbouring Laos where the ox is also reported to occur. Meanwhile a local campaign is necessary to inform villagers of the valuable nature of this species and to ban further hunting.
Status of the hog deer in Sri Lanka
Authors: McCarthy Andrew J. , Dissanayake Sarath B.
Published: April 2009

The hog deer Axis porcinus was believed to be extinct in Sri Lanka until a recent preliminary survey revealed a single remaining population in a 35-sq-km area of the south-western coastal belt. The authors describe the results of their 3-month study, outline potential threats to the survival of the population and discuss possible conservation measures.
Rediscovery of the Bornean bay cat
Authors: Sunquist Mel , Leh Charles , Hills Daphne M. , Rajaratnam Rajanathan
Published: April 2009

The bay cat Catopuma badia has been rediscovered in Borneo, where it is endemic and where there have been no confirmed sightings since 1928. In November 1992 an adult female, which had been captured by native trappers on the Sarawak-Indonesian border and kept in captivity for some months, was brought into the Sarawak Museum on the point of death. It was only the seventh known specimen and the first of a whole animal. In appearance it bears a striking resemblance to Temminck's cat C. temminckii, although it is much smaller. Genetic analysis of blood and tissue samples will assist in clarifying its taxonomic status.
The decline of the wild water buffalo in north-east India
Authors: Choudhury Anwaruddin
Published: April 2009

The Asiatic wild buffalo Bubalus bubalis was widely distributed in the river systems of south and South East Asia, but habitat destruction, hunting and interbreeding with domestic water buffalo have resulted in only relict wild populations remaining. Unless protection measures are intensified, the species could disappear in India within a few decades.
The status of Pteropus livingstonii in the Comores
Authors: Reason P. F. , Trewhella W. J.
Published: April 2009

Pteropus livingstonii is one of the world's most endangered fruit bats, with a small population limited to two of the Comoro Islands (western Indian Ocean), Surveys carried out in 1992 and 1993 suggest that the population numbers around 150 individuals. Loss of habitat through deforestation is the major threat to this species. Old World Fruit Bats: An Action Plan for their Conservation recommends captive-breeding of this species as one of 20 priority projects. The FFPS helped fund both the preparation of the Action Plan and the field projects described in this paper.
Mass mortality of Madagascar radiated tortoise caused by road construction
Authors: Goodman Steven M. , Pidgeon Mark , O'Connor Sheila
Published: April 2009

The Madagascar radiated tortoise, already beset by habitat destruction and human exploitation, suffered another blow when many individuals died as a result of a road improvement scheme in the heart of their range. When the authors of this paper reported the problem the Malagasy government authorities acted swiftly to modify the road to prevent tortoises being trapped there in the future.
Conflict between humans and elephants on private land in northern Kenya
Authors: Thouless Chris R.
Published: April 2009

About 3000 elephants live in the Laikipia/Sambnru region of northern Kenya – the largest remaining population outside the country's formal protected areas. The elephants occasionally kill or injure people, damage the crops of small-scale farmers, drive cattle away from water sources and cause a range of other problems for the human population. As a result, a number of elephants have been shot for control purposes in recent years and others have died as a result of poisoning, snares or spearing. The author examines the conflict between elephants and humans in areas of differing land use and makes suggestions for resolving at least some of the problems.
Otter distribution in Lithuania
Authors: Baranauskas K. , Mickevičius E. , Macdonald S. M. , Mason C. F.
Published: April 2009

The authors carried out the first field survey for otters in Lithuania, which demonstrated that the species is still widespread. With otters now rare or absent in much of western Europe, conservation strategies for the animal and its habitats in remaining eastern European strongholds must be developed.
Can wildlife pay its way?
Authors: Eltringham S. K.
Published: April 2009

Conservation philosophy is swinging away from the traditional approach of setting up reserves to give absolute protection to wildlife and is replacing it with more realistic strategies. To succeed today, conservationists should take into account the needs of the people who share their land with wild species. The author examines some of the ways in which wildlife can be valuable to local people and made to pay for its own conservation – game viewing, sport hunting, game cropping and ranching. The advantages and pitfalls are discussed and it is concluded that while these uses are possible for some some wildlife species, others will never have a direct economic value. Someone will have to pay for their conservation – and it should not be those who can least afford it.
Endangered primates in the Selous Game Reserve and an imminent threat to their habitat
Authors: Decker Barbara S.
Published: April 2009

The Magombera Forest in Tanzania contains the most viable population of the endangered Uhehe red colobus monkey, three other primates, and rare and endemic plants and animals. In 1980 almost half of the Magombera Forest Reserve was surrendered for settlement in exchange for the southern part being incorporated into the Selous Game Reserve. Due to an oversight, the southern part was not legally annexed into the Selous and now the Kilombero Sugar Company has claimed a portion of it. The forest is currently in good condition and offers the best opportunity to conserve the Uhehe red colobus. The author recommends a number of measures to save the forest and its wildlife and to ensure that the needs of the local people are met.
The barasingha, or swamp deer, in Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal
Authors: Henshaw J.
Published: April 2009

Between 1988 and 1993 six periods of field study were undertaken to investigate the environmental impact of the construction of a main irrigation canal and other works in the proposed extension of Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve and to recommend protective measures. Suklaphanta is administered by His Majesty's Government of Nepal through the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation. Special emphasis was placed upon the barasingha Cervus duvauceli population because it is the largest remaining group of this endangered deer species in the world. This paper presents recommendations for the management of the barasingha and its habitat.
The amphibians of Ranomafana rain forest, Madagascar – preliminary community analysis and conservation considerations
Authors: Andreone Franco
Published: April 2009

Surveys of the amphibians (Order: Anura) of Ranomafana National Park, a midaltitude rainforest in central-eastern Madagascar, and nearby areas of disturbed habitats were carried out in two seasons (December 1991 and August 1992). A total of 40 frog species was recorded. In undisturbed areas many strictly terrestrial species were present, most of them belonging to the endemic family Mantellidae. These species showed changes in abundance between August and December, probably due to temperature variation. In contrast, most of the species found in altered habitats were arboreal or semiarboreal. These are ‘ecologically opportunistic’ species, not so sensitive to habitat variations and able to reproduce whenever conditions are favourable. These species were equally abundant in December and August and they appear to be able to live in a more varied habitat patchwork. To preserve the diversity and abundance of amphibians, nature reserves should retain a central core of primary forest to ensure the survival of the more specialized species, surrounded by a buffer zone of degraded vegetation to sustain the presence of more adaptable frog species.
Sustainable management of the saiga antelope
Authors: Milner-Gulland E. J.
Published: April 2009

The saiga antelope is exploited principally for its horn. Two major factors will influence the manager's decision about the best sustainable hunting strategy for the saiga: the climatic unpredictability of the region in which it lives and the effects of highly selective hunting for males on the population dynamics of the species. This paper discusses these factors and assesses the prospects for sustainable management of the saiga.
Cape clawless otter conservation and a trout river in Zimbabwe: a case study
Authors: Butler James
Published: April 2009

A community-based conservation scheme on the upper catchment of the Kairezi River, eastern Zimbabwe, has been based on financial returns from trout fishing. Despite consistent stocking, trout catches have been declining, which undermines the justification for conservation. Fishery managers believed that Cape clawless otters Aonyx capensis preyed on trout and competed with them for food. An analysis of otter and trout diets in 1993 indicated that this was not the case and the otter was not the cause of the lack of trout. The future of the scheme and the conservation of otters in the catchment are more likely to be threatened by poaching and uncontrolled agricultural activities.
The Mountain Gorilla Project: Progress Report 3
Authors: Harcourt A.H.
Published: April 2009

The Mountain Gorilla Project started with four main programmes for the conservation of the gorilla in Rwanda's Pare National des Volcans: the Training and Equipping of a Park Guard Force (AWLF/PTES responsibility); Conservation Education (FPS/PTES); Tourism Development (FPS/PTES); and a Building Programme of offices and housing for the park guards (AWLF/WWF). Thanks largely to Bill Weber and Amy Vedder of the University of Wisconsin, two of these, the Conservation Education and Tourism Development Programmes, have been as successful as we could ever have hoped. Progress on the others has been distressingly slow due to probably almost inevitable bureaucratic delays. Nevertheless, the training and equipping programme is now under way, and only the building project remains to be started.