Abstract:

To improve the efficacy of population conservation of giant panda, and to further understanding of its life history and biology, we investigated the scent mark trees at giant panda breeding sites in Wanglang National Nature Reserve in the spring of 2004. Based on 36 surveys on 10 transects, we documented 24 scent mark trees. We recorded species, height, and DBH of 1801 trees on the ridges of possible panda breeding sites. We found 13 (54%) of the scent mark trees on ridges with forest on both sides and located in the center of panda habitat. Seventeen scent mark trees (71%) were distributed between the elevation of 2700-3000 m. Average DBH of scent mark trees was 37.2±17.8 cm, 22 (92%) trees were Abies fargesii var. faxoniana, and 23 (96%) had rough bark. Eighteen (75%) trees were marked with secretion of the crissal gland at an average height of 51.8±15.6 cm (center above the ground), and the remaining six were marked with urine at an average height of 64.5±14.5 cm (upper edge above ground). All the scent mark trees were found in Changbai Valley and Jiefang Valley. Therefore, these valleys are vital habitats of the panda population during the spring mating season. Based on our results, Wanglang Nature Reserve has enhanced giant panda protection by adding a new seasonal conservation station, improving the patrolling route, and increasing patrolling frequency.