The installation of camera traps in protected forest areas in Nghe An has yielded surprising results, revealing the presence of several rare animal species, including the endangered Asiatic black bear. This is good news for biodiversity conservation efforts at the Vietnam-Laos border.
Officers from the Tam Duong Protected Forest Management Board and the Vietnam Wildlife Conservation Center have been setting up camera traps to study wildlife.
Research Objectives and Implementation
Mr. Nguyen Thanh Dung, Director of the Tam Duong Protected Forest Management Board in Nghe An, stated that the primary goal of this project is to document the activities of rare animal species in the Vietnam-Laos border region. The research team collaborated with the Vietnam Wildlife Conservation Center to conduct two rounds of data collection using camera traps.
The first round took place from November 25 to December 6, 2024, with 50 camera traps installed in the Tam Hoa protected forest area and the Tam Duong Forestry Joint Stock Company. Despite harsh weather conditions with heavy fog and continuous rain, the team completed their task without detecting any signs of illegal logging or hunting.
The second round extended from December 22, 2024, to January 5, 2025, with 52 camera traps placed in Ky Son district and the border area of Tam Hoa commune. The weather there was even more challenging, with low temperatures, dense fog, and heavy rain, making movement and equipment operation difficult. Nevertheless, the team managed to retrieve 99 out of 102 camera traps (three cameras were lost).
Research Findings and Scientific Significance
Data collected during the two rounds revealed important insights into the presence of numerous rare animal species. Notably, images of the endangered Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus) were recorded. Other species observed include the critically endangered Javan pangolin, marbled cat, banteng, ferret badger, hog badger, clouded leopard, and muntjac.
These findings not only affirm the ecological value of the Vietnam-Laos border forest but also provide crucial scientific evidence for conservation programs. Mr. Dung emphasized the urgent need to protect the natural habitats of these rare species amid climate change and increasing illegal hunting.
Importance of Conservation Efforts
The research results have raised awareness about the importance of protecting biodiversity. Rare animals play a significant role in ecosystems and symbolize the rich natural heritage of Vietnam. Their discovery in the border region underscores the strategic importance of this area in national conservation efforts.
Mr. Dung expressed hope that the collected data will serve as a foundation for developing specific policies and action plans to protect rare species. He also called for community and international organizations’ collaboration in preserving natural resources.
Conclusion
The discovery of the Asiatic black bear and other rare species in the Vietnam-Laos border forest is a clear testament to the unique ecological value of the region. To maintain and enhance these values, substantial investment in conservation efforts and close cooperation among stakeholders are necessary. Let’s work together to protect nature for a more sustainable future.
Source: dantri.com.vn
