The wild camel (Camelus ferus) in China: Current status and conservation implications

Abstract

Abstract The wild camel (Camelus ferus) is a critically endangered species found in extremely arid environments of Central Asia. The wild camel population and its distribution areas have decreased significantly since the middle of the 19th century. The species is now restricted to four isolated habitats in China and Mongolia, and more than 20 years have passed since the most recent surveys of its status and distribution. In an effort to get more current information, we conducted ground surveys, coupled with ad-libitum interviews of local residents, in the geographic range of wild camels in China from 2011 to 2013. We aim to present the most up to date status and distribution of wild camels and provide effective management and conservation strategies. We identified three subpopulations (Taklimakan Desert, Kumtagh Desert, border area of China and Mongolia). The wild camel population in the Kumtagh Desert was found to be stable and relatively dense, likely due to large areas of protected habitat. Camel presence in the Taklimakan Desert was further south than previously reported, indicating an expansion or range shift in distribution that may have been driven by high levels of anthropogenic disturbance. No signs of camels were found in the border area, likely due to a substantial border fence that impedes animal movement. Protected areas appear to work at improving camel populations and will be imperative for their persistence across their currently known range. Continued monitoring is needed to deduce camel movement, and connectivity between China and Mongolia improved. We also recommend surveys in the very near future to determine how populations may have changed since the surveys presented herein were undertaken.