Posted on May, 15 2008

Location: Thrumshingla National Park, Jigme Dorji National Park and corridors
Grantee: Sangay Dorji

In determining the distribution, habitat and conservation status of Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) in Bhutan, Sangay Dorji’s research aims to provide information instrumental to designing appropriate middle path conservation measures without compromising the development needs of the people living inside and around the protected areas of Bhutan. It is expected to generate detailed information on the status and problem of conserving Red Panda and on viable habitats for the species in the country. The study will help gain further support to maintain the animal’s status as a protected species under the Forest and Nature Conservation Rule of 2006.

The research results are also expected to help in proper zoning of the park and protecting key habitat. Knowledge gained will be useful in promoting eco-tourism and in raising awareness in the local communities.

The presence / absence of Red Panda in the area will be determined by the presence of pellets and by random plotting along stratified transects established to identify habitat variables.

Specifically, Sangay Dorji’s research will look into
• the current distribution of Red Panda in Bhutan,
• habitat characteristics of the Red Panda in two key sites – Jigme Dorji National Park and Thrumshingla National Park,
• anthropogenic threats to Red Panda and its habitat in the two parks,
• food habits through scat analysis, and
• cultural perceptions and beliefs of local communities concerning the species.

Very little is known about the status of the Red Panda in Bhutan. Its population is estimated at less than 2500 mature individuals in the wild. The species continues to decline in number, and no subpopulation of over 250 mature individuals exists. The Red Panda is a protected species in Bhutan, Nepal, China, Myanmar and India.

For more information contact sdorji@une.edu.au or sangaytnp@hotmail.com.