Abstract:

Aims: As a global biodiversity hotspot, the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau plays a critical role in sustaining nationally protected wild bird species. Understanding their spatial distribution is essential for assessing ecosystem health and developing effective conservation strategies. This study analyzes the spatial distribution characteristics of these birds, identifies biodiversity hotspots, and provides data to support resource allocation and nature reserve planning. It also serves as a case study for biodiversity conservation at targeted regional scales.

Methods: Distribution records of nationally protected bird species in the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau were compiled from field surveys, historical literature, specimen data, and platforms like GBIF and eBird. Climate, topography, human disturbance, and net primary productivity data were integrated to predict species’ potential distribution using the Biomod2 model. Variables were selected based on Spearman’s correlation coefficient and variance inflation factor (VIF). Model performance was assessed with true skills statistic (TSS) > 0.8 and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) > 0.9. Spatial autocorrelation was analyzed using Moran’s I, and hotspots were identified with the Getis-Ord G_i* statistic.

Results: In total, 290 nationally protected wild bird species, belonging to 21 orders and 51 families, were recorded in Qinghai-Xizang Plateau. Among them, Passeriformes (73 species, 25.2%), Accipitriformes (49 species, 16.9%), and Galliformes (31 species, 10.7%) were the most prevalent. Bird abundance decreased from southeast to northwest, with high concentrations in the Hengduan Mountains and the eastern Himalayas, located at the border of Southeast Xizang, Sichuan, and Yunnan. Conversely, lower abundance was noted in the central and northern plateau. Hotspot areas accounted for 25.37% of the study region, whereas cold spots in the central and northern plateau encompassed 32.53% of the total area. The spatial distribution of these key protected species showed a strong positive correlation, with regions of similar species richness forming distinct clusters.

Conclusion: The distribution of key protected wild birds in the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau is influenced by hydrothermal conditions and habitat suitability, with the warm, humid forests of southeast China serving as a biodiversity hotspot. This study integrates multiple data sources and models to offer a scientific foundation for identifying conservation priorities. Future efforts should align the design of nature reserves with in-depth research on conservation mechanisms to address the dual pressures of climate change and human activities.

Key words: Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, national key protected wild animals, bird richness, Biomod2 model, spatial autocorrelation, hotspot analysis