Evaluating the Suitability and Overlap of Resting and Path Habitats of Giant Pandas in the Wanglang Nature Reserve

Habitat fragmentation threatens the survival of giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca); hence, it is vital to protect its habitat. However, a lack of detailed understanding of different functional habitats and their relationships restricts the protective effect. To reveal the relationship between different functional habitats, we distinguished and investigated giant pandas' resting and path sites and evaluated the suitability patterns and overlap of resting and path habitats in the Wanglang Nature Reserve using MAXENT and overlay methods. A total of 28 resting sites and 30 path sites were used in this study. The results showed that the areas of suitable resting and path habitats were 42.03 km(2) and 28.52 km(2), respectively, and were fragmented due to the existence of roads. A total of 27.81 km(2) of suitable habitat overlapped, indicating many areas have the dual attributes of suitable resting and path habitats for giant pandas. There were almost no suitable resting and path habitats within 200 m and 300 m from roads, respectively. Therefore, measures should be taken to restore the unsuitable habitats distributed in the roadside area and connect the fragmented habitat patches. The indicators and methods used in this study can be considered in studying different functional giant panda habitats and their relationships.

Automated summary

Habitat fragmentation poses a threat to the survival of giant pandas. This study investigates the relationship between different functional habitats by examining resting and path sites. The results show that suitable resting and path habitats are fragmented due to road presence. Restoration of unsuitable habitats in roadside areas and connecting fragmented patches is necessary.