Monitoring activity rhythms of Equus hemionus at watering holes by camera traps in Mount Kalamaili Ungulate Nature Reserve, Xinjiang

doi:10.3724/SP.J.1003.2014.14179

Abstract

Abstract:

Khulan (Equus hemionus) are a first class, nationally protected animal in China. From April to November 2013, 28 infrared cameras were set up at 13 watering holes to study the activity rhythms of this species in the Mount Kalamaili Ungulate Nature Reserve, Xinjiang, China. The results showed that activity frequency was greatest in autumn (2,679 identification photos), then summer (1,990), and lowest in spring (294). Average aggregation of E. hemionus to watering holes was greater in daylight hours than at nights. Daily activity at watering holes peaked between 0:00-1:00, declined rapidly between 7:00-9:00, was lowest between 12:00-13:00 and 16:00-17:00 and rose rapidly between 21:00-22:00. Studying the activity of Equus hemionus around watering holes will provide a basis for effective protection and management of desert ungulates in northern Xinjiang. Additionally, it provides a baseline for the sympatric reintroduction of Equus przewalskii.

Key words: Kuhlan (Equus hemionus), camera trapping, watering holes, activity rhythms

Hongpan Wu, Hongjun Chu, Yuan Wang, Jianwei Ma, Yan Ge, Lan Bu. Monitoring activity rhythms of Equus hemionus at watering holes by camera traps in Mount Kalamaili Ungulate Nature Reserve, Xinjiang[J]. Biodiv Sci, 2014, 22(6): 752-757.

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URL: https://www.biodiversity-science.net/EN/10.3724/SP.J.1003.2014.14179

https://www.biodiversity-science.net/EN/Y2014/V22/I6/752

Figures/Tables 5

References 35

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