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Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
A wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong National Biodiversity
Conservation Area, Champassak and Salavan Provinces, Lao PDR
Authors: T.D. Evans, A.J. Stones, R.C.M. Thewlis and H.C. Towll
Conducted during March 1996
A report to the IUCN Biodiversity Conservation Project of the Provincial Agriculture and
Forestry Office, Pakxe, Champassak Province, Laos.
Contact addresses:
IUCN Biodiversity Conservation Project T.D. EVANS A.J. STONES
c/o Forestry Division 11 Yeoman Lane 32 Hill Street
PO Box 19 Bearsted Norwich
Pakse Maidstone NR2 2DT
Champassak Province Kent UK
Lao PDR
ME14 4BX
UK
Copyright © IUCN and DFRC, 1996
Reproduction of material from this document for education or other non-commercial purposes is
authorised without the prior permission of IUCN, The World Conservation Union, provided the
source is acknowledged.
The findings, interpretations, conclusions and recommendations expressed in this document
represent those of the authors and do not imply the endorsement of IUCN, The World Conservation
Union, the Department of Forest Resource Conservation (DFRC) or affiliated organisations.
Revisions and updates to taxonomy have been made since this document was originally produced.
The designation of geographical entities in this document, and the presentation of the
material, do not imply the expression of any opinion on the part of IUCN or DFRC or
affiliated organisations, concerning the legal status of any country, territory, or area, or its
authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries.
1

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
CONTENTS
ABBREVIATIONS
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
PART 1: SURVEY AREA
1.1 Site Description
1.2 Geography
1.3 Access
PART 2: SURVEY DESCRIPTION
2.1 Aims
2.1.1 Habitat specific
2.1.2 Wildlife specific
2.2 Participants
2.3 Survey Method
2.4 Survey Dates and Sites
PART 3: FINDINGS WITH RESPECT TO HABITAT AND HUMAN USE
3.1 Habitats in PXT
3.1.1 Semi-evergreen forest
3.1.2 Mixed deciduous forest
3.1.3 Dry dipterocarp forest
3.1.4 Rocky savanna
3.1.5 Salt-licks
3.1.6 Wetlands
3.1.7 Lowland degraded areas
3.2 Human use
3.2.1 Presence and growth of villages
3.2.2 Cultivation and clearance
3.2.3 Fishing and associated practices
3.2.4 Hunting
3.2.5 Timber extraction
3.2.6 Tapping for Yang oil
3.2.7 Grazing by domestic cattle
3.2.8 Forest fires
3.3 Critical habitats and threats
3.3.1 Critical habitats
3.3.2 Critical threats
PART 4: FINDINGS WITH RESPECT TO WILDLIFE
4.1 Birds
4.1.1 Completeness of coverage
4.1.2 Overview of the importance of PXT for birds
4.1.3 Key bird species not found
4.1.4 Threats to birds
4.2 Mammals
4.2.1 Completeness of coverage
4.2.2 Overview of the importance of PXT for mammals
4.2.3 Threats to mammals
4.3 Reptiles
4.3.1 Overview of the importance of PXT for reptiles
4.3.2 Threats to reptiles
2

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
PART 5: PROPOSED ACTION FOCUS
5.1 Conclusions concerning important species, habitats and threats
5.2 Key areas for protection of Key wildlife species within PXT
PART 6: TRAINING
6.1 Summary of overall staff performance
RECOMMENDATIONS
REFERENCES
ANNEX 1: MAPS AND PLACE NAMES
ANNEX 2: TERMINOLOGY AND CONVENTIONS
2.1 Key Species
2.2 Nomenclature and Systematics
2.3 Altitudes
2.4 Grid References
ANNEX 3: METHODOLOGY
3.1 Limitations
3.2 Habitat Survey
3.2.1 Habitat evaluation
3.2.2 Human use
3.3 Bird Survey
3.3.1 Field observation
3.3.2 Sound recording
3.3.3 Interviews
3.4 Mammal Survey
3.4.1 Opportunistic observation of mammals
3.4.2 Timed nocturnal walks
3.4.3 Interviews
3.5 Reptiles
3.6 Village Interviews
ANNEX 4: BIRD SPECIES RECORDED DURING THE SURVEY
4.1 Bird status
4.2 Key bird species accounts
ANNEX 5: MAMMAL SPECIES RECORDED DURING THE SURVEY
5.1 Mammal status
5.2 Key mammal species accounts
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FIGURES
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
Figure 4
Figure 5
Figure 6
Figure 7
Figure 8
Figure 9
Figure 10
Figure 11
TABLES
Table 1
Table 2
Table 3
Table 4
Table 5
Table 6
Table 7
Table 8
Table 9
Table 10
Table 11
Table 12
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Topographic map showing boundaries of PXT and Xe Bang Nouan NBCA
Natural features in and adjacent to PXT
Access routes relevant to PXT
Areas surveyed in PXT
Habitat types of PXT
Significant localised human uses and habitats in PXT
Evidence of selected Key bird species in PXT
Evidence of primates in PXT
Evidence of big cats and Dhole in PXT
Evidence of Elephant, wild cattle, Serow and salt-licks in PXT
Catchments and other areas where core areas could be developed
Characteristics of the main stream catchments in PXT
Habitats of PXT
Characteristics of villages within PXT
Some human uses of PXT
Key bird species in PXT
Key mammal species of PXT
Village and other locality names of the PXT area which differ from those on the
RDP Lao Service Geographique d'Etat, 1: 100 000 maps
Status of bird species recorded in PXT
Records of River Lapwing in PXT
Records of Wire-tailed Swallow in PXT
Mammal species recorded during the survey
Nocturnal mammal encounter frequencies
ABBREVIATIONS
DDF
DWFC
IUCN
MDF
NBCA
NOFIP
PAWM
PXT
RS
SEF
WCS
Dry dipterocarp forest
Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation (now called PAWD)
The World Conservation Union
Mixed deciduous forest
National Biodiversity Conservation Area
National Office of Forestry Inventory and Planning
Department of Protected Areas and Watershed Management
Phou Xiang Thong National Biodiversity Conservation Area
Rocky savanna
Semi-evergreen forest
Wildlife Conservation Society
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The survey was conducted under contract to the Biodiversity Conservation Project, funded by the
Dutch government and implemented by the Lao Forestry Department with technical assistance
from The World Conservation Union (IUCN). The authors are particularly grateful to Mr.
Phoulitat, the project coordinator for Salavan province, to Mr. Sisouk, field director at Phou Xiang
Thong and his staff Mr. Douangvilay, Mr. Viengxay, Mr. Phosy and Mr. Suksakhone who are
warmly thanked for their assistance and companionship. We highly appreciated assistance in
survey planning and logistics by Messrs. Bounsay, Vilavong and Berkmüller. William Duckworth
and Rob Timmins provided information. We also thank the many local residents who shared their
knowledge and acted as guides.
Survey participants
Douangvilay, Tom Evans, Phosy, Suksakhone, Anthony Stones, Richard Thewlis, Howard Towll
and Viengxay.
4

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
A rapid assessment of habitats, threatened wildlife species and human use was conducted in Phou
Xiang Thong National Biodiversity Conservation Area (NBCA) during 5-30 March 1996.
Main Findings
Habitats
The reserve is mostly lowland in character, with only limited areas above 500 m. The
predominant habitat is dry semi-evergreen forest, much of it low and poorly-developed with few
sizable trees. Logging has affected this habitat type throughout the northern third of the reserve
(Houay Khouang, Houay Sanan, Houay Vangmoun and probably Houay Xiangla catchments) and
locally in the Houay Dua and Houay Louang catchments. An area of almost wholly flat valleybottom
semi-evergreen forest covers about 10 km² of the upper Houay Phalaphang valley.
Small patches (

Birds of conservation interest (degree of threat in brackets)
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
The reserve supports one of the largest populations of Green Peafowl Pavo muticus (Globally
threatened) known to remain in Laos. Thirteen calling males were located, seven of them at one
site and the others widely dispersed. A few more males are expected to occur in unsurveyed
areas, as well as an unknown number of females.
Moderate numbers of Siamese Fireback Lophura diardi (Globally threatened) and Bar-bellied
Pitta Pitta ellioti (Globally near-threatened) and very small numbers of Coral-billed Ground-
Cuckoo Carpococcyx renauldi (Globally near-threatened), Green Imperial-Pigeon Ducula aenea
(Regionally at risk), Red-collared Woodpecker Picus rabieri (Globally threatened) and Greyfaced
Tit-Babbler Macronous kelleyi (Globally near-threatened) were found in semi-evergreen
forest.
Three species of riverine specialist bird were recorded along the Mekong. The population of
Wire-tailed Swallows Hirundo smithii (Regionally at risk) was the densest and largest recently
recorded in Laos. Moderate numbers of River Lapwings Vanellus duvaucelli (National historical
decline) included some apparently nesting. Small Pratincole Glareola lactea (Regionally at risk)
was recorded in one area, with a maximum of five individuals. The latter two species may have
been reduced due to heavy incidental disturbance by fishermen.
Six other Key species of lower conservation significance (three of which were provisionally
identified) were recorded.
Mammals of conservation interest (degree of threat in brackets)
Wild cattle were confirmed in two areas of rocky savanna in mosaic with semi-evergreen forest
(Houay Phalaphang/Houay Lahit in the south, Houay Vangmoun in the north). Most were
suspected to be Banteng Bos javanicus (Globally threatened) though some Gaur Bos gaurus
(Globally threatened) probably also occur. Very few populations of Banteng are known to remain
in Laos. Hunting of cattle was reported to be heavy at Bong Itao salt-lick.
Many signs of big cats were seen throughout the reserve, and they were widely reported.
Leopards Panthera pardus (Regionally at risk) probably predominate, at higher densities than
recorded elsewhere in Laos. A few Tigers Panthera tigris (Globally threatened) may also remain.
Asian Elephants Elephas maximus (Globally threatened) were confirmed to occur, but local
reports indicate only two localities, possibly involving a single group of two animals.
Primate numbers were very low. Only three parties of gibbon Hylobates sp. (Globally threatened)
were located and reports were received from two other sites. Douc Langur Pygathrix nemaeus
(Globally threatened) was reported but not confirmed in the same general areas, and is thought to
be at least as scarce as gibbon. Pig-tailed Macaque Macaca nemestrina and Long-tailed Macaque
M. fascicularis (both Regionally at risk) were each found at one location.
Southern Serow Naemorhedus sumatraensis (Regionally at risk) and Dhole Cuon alpinus
(Globally threatened) were provisionally recorded, and signs of bear Ursus sp. (Globally
threatened) were found once. Three other Key mammal species of lower conservation
significance (two of which were provisionally identified) were recorded.
Human use
Thirteen permanent villages occur within the reserve, all but one along the banks of the Mekong,
where fishing is the main economic activity. Nine of these villages have been established since
1983 and all are still growing. A seasonal village at the mouth of Houay Vangmoun may become
permanently established in the near future. Several villages also have permanent army posts.
There are no soils suitable for agriculture within PXT except along the Mekong, hence there are
no encroachment problems elsewhere.
6

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
The density of villages fringing the reserve is markedly higher in the south than in the north.
Four driveable roads cross the reserve to reach the Mekong. These roads, especially the one along
Houay Dua, form corridors of intensive human use, including logging and hunting. The footpath
to Ban Khamteu is also in the process of being upgraded to a road.
Heavy hunting, mainly shooting, was noted in several sectors, notably along the Houay Dua, the
upper Houay Phalaphang, around villages, on table mountains (Phou Kham, Phou Sabao and Phou
Alang), and along major rivers. The most problematic areas are the salt-licks (especially Bong
Itao) and areas where primate populations remain. Cattle-raiding big cats are reportedly also
hunted. Green Peafowl, Serow and several smaller bird and mammal species are also at elevated
risk from hunting.
Both Thai and Lao people fish intensively in the Mekong mainstream throughout the length of the
reserve. All of the streams visited were also intensively fished. Chemical fishing was noted in the
lower and upper Houay Phalaphang.
Many villages had herds of cattle. Six villages reported conflict with livestock-killing big cats,
both close to the villages and, in the wet season, in remoter pastures. Domestic cattle pastures
may also overlap with areas used by wild cattle.
Cultivation was limited in extent and mostly localised near villages. Some villages lacked any rice
cultivation at all. Four small areas of rice or coffee were found in remoter areas but this is not a
major threat at present. Cultivation of cotton and tobacco along the banks of the Mekong is more
widespread but does not appear to result in significant deforestation. The hunting associated with
this human presence in the forest may be more of a problem for wildlife.
Previous studies have detected a major illegal trade in wildlife products through Ban Mai, a border
post inside the southern boundary of the reserve.
Recommendations
Reduce destructive methods throughout the reserve
Hunting of the larger Key species, especially Banteng, Gaur, Leopard, Tiger, gibbon, Douc
Langur and Green Peafowl, was identified as the most urgent problem for wildlife. Hunting of
these species mainly involves shooting. Serow, Sambar, bears, macaques, Siamese Fireback, Barbellied
Pitta, Coral-billed Ground-Cuckoo and Green Imperial-Pigeon are probably also under
high hunting pressure from both shooting and snaring. The first priority for wildlife management
is to reduce hunting pressure in selected core areas. Action should include an education campaign
for nearby villages. Restrictions of access to these core areas should be pursued.
The most acute threat within the Houay Vangmoun sector (Core area A, below) is probably
hunting of cattle at Bong Itao. Human access to the immediate vicinity of the lick should be
stopped.
7

Establishment of effective use controls in selected core zones
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
The following are suggested as potential core areas (see Figure 11). A detailed rationale is given
in Section 5.2. They are listed in order of importance.
Core area A: Houay Vangmoun and Houay Xiangla catchments, including Bong Itao
Core area B: Houay Kok and Houay Lan headwaters
Core area C: Houay Phalaphang and Houay Talo catchments.
Core area D: Islands in the Mekong downstream of Ban Donkoum
Core area E: Houay Xan valley.
The killing of big cats which raid cattle needs attention. A survey of which villages or remote
pastures are affected and the scale of the problem is required. It may then be possible to improve
levels of animal husbandry so that predation is reduced or a compensation scheme may be
introduced.
Locally logging is at such a high level that the forests are being seriously degraded (e.g., upper
Houay Dua, Houay Luat). Much of the demand is probably from expanding villages within the
reserve. Users need to be identified, commercial operations phased out and alternative,
sustainable sources of timber developed for village use.
The extent of coffee plantations, dry and wet rice cultivation should be stabilised if possible at
their current extent. A survey of sites, extents and owners of the various patches of cultivation is
required, so that expansion can be detected and limited in the future. Cultivation in the southern
headwaters of the Houay Phalaphang (Core area C) and the northern headwaters of the Houay
Dua should be phased out.
Additional information is required on the following aspects of human use, which are common but
were not confirmed to be serious threats to the wildlife species studied. Data gathering exercises
will necessitate active villager involvement:
Pastures used by domestic cattle during the wet season need to be identified and mapped for each
village.
The owners of rights to yang oil extraction along the various rivers need to be identified, since
their income would be affected by restrictions on access to core areas.
A study is required to indicate whether high levels of fishing in the reserve are likely to be sustainable. This
requires the services of a fisheries specialist.
Abandonment or size reduction of villages
Associated rural development should serve to encourage abandonment or size reduction of villages within
the reserve boundaries. In-migration should be discouraged.
The seasonal village at the mouth of Houay Vangmoun (Core area A) should not be allowed to
become permanent since it would drastically reduce the value of the most important potential core
area. The cultivation of cotton and tobacco along the banks of the Mekong in this area by people
from Ban Nadou and Ban Nondinxay should be phased out.
Villages which could be targeted for reduction and eventual abandonment are those closest to core
areas, namely, Ban Donkoum, Ban Khamteu, Ban Khantamkhae and possibly Ban
Khauntoungxai.
8

Avoidance of opening up additional routes to vehicle access
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
The trail from Ban Xaimon to Ban Khamteu is apparently being upgraded, which will facilitate
access for hunting and logging. Upgrading of this road should not be allowed.
No further road construction or improvement should be allowed.
Other Action
The trade in wildlife parts through Ban Mai to Thailand should be reduced by improved policing
of the market there.
Boundaries and links with other reserves
There is little prospect of extending the reserve, or of linking it with Xe Bang Nouan NBCA,
because cultivation and villages completely surround the boundary. The salt-lick at Bong Itao
should be located accurately and if necessary the reserve boundary extended to include it and a
zone of forest around it.
PXT is contiguous with Pha Taem Narional Park in Thailand. Cooperation on conservation
affecting the Mekong river is highly desirable if not essential
Priorities for future wildlife surveys
More detailed information on the numbers and distribution of the following species should be
gathered during future surveys, to allow monitoring of the success of protective measures and to
identify other potential measures: Wild cattle, big cats, Douc Langur, gibbon, Green Peafowl,
Small Pratincole, River Lapwing and Wire-tailed Swallow.
The last three species could possibly be surveyed by reserve field staff with only limited
additional training and without being accompanied by external survey specialists.
Routine recording of large mammal and bird species is already included in the duties of patrolling
staff. Gibbons and peafowl lend themselves most to detection by non-specialists, and should be
given particular attention.
Accurate monitoring of cattle and big cats may require the employment of external specialists, but
careful recording of the locations and measurements of any fresh signs found by field staff would
be valuable.
Further searches by field staff, starting with interviews, are needed to identify any sites which still
support crocodiles. Reports to date have been vague and may refer to historical presence.
9

PART 1: SURVEY AREA
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
1.1 Site Description
Phou Xiang Thong National Biodiversity Conservation Area (PXT) covers approximately 995
km 2 in the provinces of Champassak and Salavan, southern Laos (Figure 1 and Berkmüller et al.
1995). Much of the reserve lies at 100-300 m altitude, but extensive hilly areas in the south and
central portions lie at 300-650 m. The highest point is Phou Nangam (716m). The western edge
of the reserve is formed by the Mekong river along the international boundary with Thailand. On
the Thai side of the Mekong lies Pha Taem National Park (340 km 2 ) which shares similar
landforms and habitats to PXT, with the exception that there is little or no semi-evergreen forest in
Pha Taem (Srikosamatara and Sutheethorn 1994).
A steep escarpment defines the southern and eastern boundaries of the PXT, but further north the
escarpment is lower and less clearly discernible. Beyond the boundary, particularly to the south
and east, lies a belt of heavily populated lowlands along the course of the Xe Don river and Route
13. PXT is not linked to any other forest areas in Laos. However, Xe Bang Nouan NBCA lies
only 6 km to the north-east.
The reserve was established by governmental decree (164PM) in October 1993. Management
implementation began in February 1996. There had not been a previous wildlife survey of the
reserve.
1.2 Geography
The protected area has two distinct physical units, the Mekong river and a long, low range of hills
8-20 km wide along its eastern bank (Figure 1). The hills can be divided into a series of subsectors
on the basis of topography and habitats, as listed below from north to south. The subsectors
are not separated by well-defined boundaries. The headwaters and drainage basins of most
of the streams mentioned fall entirely within the area's boundaries. Place-names can be found on
Figure 2.
• The north-eastern sub-sector of the reserve is the lowest and flattest. It is largely covered by
semi-evergreen forest with two important tracts of dry dipterocarp forest and many smaller
patches of deciduous forest. This sub-sector includes the catchment of the Houay Sanan and
other streams to the east.
• The catchments of the Houay Vangmoun, Houay Xiangla, Houay Xan and several smaller
streams are in more hilly terrain, especially the steep-sided valley of the Houay Xan. The
valleys support semi-evergreen forest, but extensive flats are covered by large tracts of rocky
savanna and other deciduous forest types.
• The next sub-sector to the south is dominated by the catchment of the Houay Dua, which is
hilly with several steep table mountains. Semi-evergreen forest predominates, with quite large
patches of deciduous forest in the lower Houay Dua valley.
• From the catchment of the Houay Xot-Noy south to the Houay Lahit, the higher ground is
again dominated by rocky savannas, with semi-evergreen forest on the valley bottoms and
sides.
• The southern third of the reserve lies mainly in the catchments of the Houay Louang and
Houay Phalaphang. This area is the most hilly, with the highest ridges in the reserve and
several more table mountains. Semi-evergreen forest predominates, but there are areas of dry
dipterocarp forest in both valleys, and some extensive rocky savannas in the middle reaches of
the Houay Phalaphang.
10

1.3 Access
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
See Figure 3. A major arterial road, Route 13, passes within 5 km of most points of the eastern
boundary of the reserve. From Route 13, roads suitable for four-wheel drive vehicles and bicycles
allow access to Ban Thakhamxomxua, Ban Phou Ka and Ban Khamleusa (via Ban Hinbok), to
Ban Kenggnaput (via Ban Bouttaphan) and Ban Khantoungxai (via Ban Kham-I). A seasonal
road leads into Ban Mai (via Ban Latsua). The foot trail from Ban Xaimon to Ban Khamteu has
been widened to allow vehicles but is still very uneven and appears only usable by tractors and
cattle carts at present.
The Mekong is readily navigable along its entire length within the reserve, with the exception of
the rapids near Ban Kenggnaphut which require good local knowledge to pass safely. Large
canoes with outboard motors are the main form of transport in the reserve, and are crucial links
with the outside world for the villages which lack road access. Road access is reportedly much
better on the Thai bank where many other villages are situated. As a result, villages on the Lao
side trade directly with Thailand (selling produce and buying processed goods).
There is a comprehensive network of foot trails within the reserve. Even the remotest part of the
area is easily reached within five hours walk from the boundary. North of Houay Xiangla
(possibly south to Houay Xan) trails appeared to be based on the many roads cut in the early
1990s by a logging company. Elsewhere many trails navigated between open areas of dry
dipterocarp and rocky savanna forest, avoiding semi-evergreen forest where possible. The rocky
savannas are often so open that no trail is required and one can easy walk long distances in any
direction. Three major trails were found entering the headwaters of the Houay Phalaphang valley
from Ban Khampheng and Ban Khamlouang to the south-east, and one from Ban Latsua to the
south, indicating that even the very steep slopes of the escarpment in this sector do not much
restrict human access.
11

2. SURVEY DESCRIPTION
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
2.1 Aims
To assess the condition of the major habitats and the presence of Key wildlife species in and
around the protected area with a view to making recommendations for management, the following
objectives were set:
2.1.1 Habitat specific
a) A description of habitat types occurring in the protected area.
b) An assessment of overall habitat conditions with particular reference to settled parts of the
study area and the use of resources by the local population.
c) The identification of critical habitats within the study area and an evaluation of the relative
importance of habitats to selected wildlife species.
2.1.2 Wildlife specific
a) The determination of the status of species of conservation interest.
b) A list of bird and mammal species confirmed to occur in each habitat, with assessment of
status.
c) The collection of incidental data on hunting practices, with levels and localities.
d) The training of local staff in species recognition and survey techniques was a subsidiary
objective.
2.2 Participants
Four survey specialists (Tom Evans, Anthony Stones, Richard Thewlis and Howard Towll)
participated, with three (TE, AS and RT) present for the full period of the survey. All four
conducted opportunistic diurnal observations of mammals and birds; TE also undertook
interviews with local hunters and some nocturnal surveys. Four members of the PXT reserve staff
(Douangvilay, Viengxay, Phosy and Suksakhone) participated as counterparts. The counterparts
gathered diurnal observations in the company of the survey specialists, made some additional
observations whilst working alone and independently mapped portions of the trail network. They
were also invaluable in assisting with interviews, assessments of human use and logistics.
2.3 Survey Method
The methodology followed that of previous wildlife and habitat surveys of protected areas in
Laos. The survey aimed to cover all habitats within the protected area, concentrating in particular
on the major stream valleys and areas where Key species (those of elevated conservation concern)
were reported to occur.
Details of methods used, limitations and the selection of Key species are included in Annexes 2
and 3.
2.4 Survey Dates and Sites
The areas surveyed are shown on Figure 4. Ten main sectors were covered during the survey,
often for quite brief periods. An attempt was made to visit the full range of habitats in PXT and to
make at least brief visits to most sectors for rapid assessments of habitat and degree of
disturbance. Field dates and number of person-days devoted to wildlife surveys are given below.
Time spent solely on trail-mapping and periods spent in transit when no field observations could
be made are not included. One or more observers moving together for a full day count as a single
person-day.
Houay Khouang - Houay Sanan 25 - 27 March (2 person days)
Houay Vangmoun catchment 27 - 29 March (2 person days)
Houay Xan catchment 25 - 29 March
12

Houay Xan catchment (2.5 person days)
Houay Bokham (3.5 person days)
Houay Dua catchment 19 - 25 March
Ban Hatxeno (1.5 person days)
Houay Saving area (11.5 person days)
Houay Kok catchment 19 - 21 March (2 person days)
Hong Tat catchment 16 - 18 March (4 person days)
Houay Luang catchment 14 - 16 March (4 person days)
Phou Alang 7, 14 - 18 March (4.5 person days)
Houay Phalaphang catchment 6 - 13 March
Ban Donkoum and lower reaches (3 person days)
Dan Ngou Luam (6 person days)
Middle reaches of Phalaphang valley (5 person days)
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Mekong mainstream. Observations were made close to villages on many dates. The following
longer journeys were made, all by canoe with outboard motor and invariably during the heat of the
day, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
6 March Ban Khantoungxai to Ban Donkoum
12 March Ban Khantoungxai to Ban Mai
13 March Ban Mai to Ban Khamteu, also Ban Khantoungxai to Ban Donkoum
18 March Ban Khamteu to Ban Khantoungxai
19 March Ban Khantoungxai to Ban Hatxeno; Ban Khantoungxai to Ban
Khantamkhae
21 March Ban Khantamkhae to Ban Hatxeno
25 March Ban Hatxeno to Ban Khamleusa
27 March Ban Khamleusa to the mouth of Houay Vangmoun
29 March Mouth of Houay Vangmoun to Ban Khantoungxai
30 March Ban Khantoungxai to Ban Saphay (near Pakxe)
13

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
PART 3: FINDINGS WITH RESPECT TO HABITAT AND HUMAN USE
3.1 Habitats in PXT
Habitats are mapped on Figure 5 and summarised in Table 2. Critical habitats are highlighted in
Figure 6 and section 3.3. Semi-evergreen forest, mixed deciduous forest and dry dipterocarp
forest types (following Round 1988) were similar to those observed elsewhere on recent surveys
in southern Laos (e.g. Duckworth et al. 1993, Timmins et al. 1993 and Timmins and Bleisch
1995), so only brief notes are given on unusual features of the specific sub-types of these habitats
occurring in PXT. Names for these forest types are the same as those used by the National Office
of Forest Inventory and Planning, Vientiane (Manivong and Sandewall 1992), and the simple
definitions given in that reference seem to correspond with the types used on the current survey.
However, the extents of two major habitats reported from PXT by NOFIP differ greatly from the
findings of the current survey (see below) and it may be that the two classification systems are not
compatible.
PXT is the first site where large tracts of rocky savanna have been surveyed for wildlife and this
unusual habitat is described in more detail.
The habitats form an elaborate mosaic at the scale of Figure 5, but the true picture is even more
complex. Each habitat type includes patches of every other, and each patch mapped on Figure 5 is
thus itself a mosaic, of which only the predominant habitat type can be indicated. Thus whenever,
for example ‘semi-evergreen forest’ is referred to throughout this section and the rest of the text, it
should be read as ‘semi-evergreen forest with small patches of deciduous forest, including rocky
savanna’. The same holds for the other habitat types.
Figure 5 is based on field observations and map data as described in detail in Annex 3. Habitat
boundaries on the topographic maps were occasionally found to be in error and these have been
corrected on Figure 5. Less than half of the total area of deciduous habitats could be assigned to
type from direct observations ("Confirmed" column of Table 2, marked as 'mixed deciduous
forest', 'dry dipterocarp forest' or 'rocky savanna' on Figure 5). All remaining deciduous habitat
areas are shown on Figure 5 as "Deciduous habitats, type unknown". The likely type of many of
these unvisited habitat patches was then assigned using evidence from map symbols and from
topography ("Unknown, predicted" column of Table 2). These areas are listed in Annex 3. Some
deciduous patches remained impossible to assign to type and are given in Table 2 as "Deciduous,
type unknown, type not predicted" ("Unknown, not predicted" column of Table 2).
Table 2 Habitats in PXT
Habitat
Confirmed
km²
Unknown
km²
Total
km²
Predicted Not
predicted
Semi-evergreen forest - - 700
Mixed deciduous forest 15 25 40
Dry dipterocarp forest 30 20 50
Rocky savanna 50 80 130
Deciduous, type unknown, type not
- - 45 45
predicted
Exposed rock and sand along Mekong 15 - 15
Scrub and cultivation
15 - 15
(excludes paddies in dry dipterocarp forest)
Total 995
Notes: Figures to nearest 5 km 2. Method of deriving figures is given in Annex 3. Confirmed and suspected areas of semievergreen
forest are not distinguished, due to the method of calculation. Since each mapped unit included substantial areas
of forest types other than the dominant one, estimates can only be approximate.
The most significant feature evident from Table 2 is the high proportion of semi-evergreen forest
(approximately 70%) and the low proportion of mixed deciduous forest (approximately 4%).
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Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Berkmüller et al. (1995), following maps drawn up and classified by NOFIP, reported 56% mixed
deciduous forest and only 19% ‘evergreen’ in PXT. The total of these two types is almost
identical in both studies, but the relative abundances are reversed. This may be due to different
criteria, or due to errors of classification by NOFIP, but it is certain from the 1996 survey that the
majority of PXT is typified by the wildlife communities of semi-evergreen forest and not mixed
deciduous forest.
3.1.1 Semi-evergreen forest
Much of the semi-evergreen forest observed was quite poorly developed, with a low canopy and
few trees with large-diameter trunks. The poor soils and relatively low rainfall expected in the
reserve (due to its lack of tall mountains) may be contributory factors. The semi-evergreen belts
amongst areas of rocky savanna had particularly low canopies (varying from 8-15 m tall) and
lacked any large trees. Pandans and sword palms were conspicuous features along watercourses
in these areas, and a spiny-leafed evergreen shrub was common in the understorey.
A notable feature of the semi-evergreen forest was the scarcity in some areas of Lagerstroemia
trees, which were such a conspicuous feature of semi-evergreen areas in Xe Pian NBCA thought
to have comparable rainfall and topography (TE, pers. obs.). Tall Lagerstroemia trees were
chiefly associated with open deciduous areas in PXT. Rattans were seldom noted, despite being
sought.
The tallest and richest forests observed were areas up to 1 km across on the flat summits of the
table mountains Phou Alang and Phou Sabao-Gnai. Other similar peaks such as Phou Kham-
Gnai, Phou Sabao, Phou Sabao-Noy and Phou Ngou may also support this forest type (Figure 6).
There were many very large trees, a canopy 35-40 m high and a lush understorey, including tree
ferns, which were not observed elsewhere in PXT. Two contributory factors may be the greater
altitude of these sites and the difficulty of logging them. Also, paradoxically, these hilltops were
the only places in the reserve where permanent streams were seen, springs which apparently flow
across the summits then disappear back underground, since there is no water in their beds lower
down the slopes.
The steeper mountain and valley slopes support rather poor semi-evergreen forest with rocky
outcrops, boulder piles under the canopy and much tall, stout, smooth bamboo.
There is an area of about 10 km² of flat valley bottom forest in the upper Houay Phalaphang
catchment. Such areas often support high quality forest and can be of particular value to wildlife
but this area could not be visited on the current survey.
The northern third of the reserve catchments, where the ground is flat to undulating, perhaps once
supported the tallest forest in the reserve. It is now reduced to forest with a canopy below 20 m
and a lack of emergent trees other than scattered yang oil trees left for resin harvesting. However,
the forest structure remained largely intact in most areas visited, with closed canopy and a shady
understorey with patchy dense and sparse cover. Only one part of the northern third visited (the
upper Houay Vangmoun west of Phou Siangthong, see Figure 2) had been so heavily degraded
that the canopy was open, the middle storey smothered with vines and the understorey
impenetrable.
Topographic maps show two old roads in the Houay Dua catchment, presumably old logging
roads, so some unsurveyed areas of this catchment can be expected to have been logged.
Very little secondary growth (regeneration following cultivation) was observed, except for small
patches close to villages and an area in the Houay Dua valley near the Houay Saving. However,
logging has been widespread and is continuing (Section 3.2.5).
3.1.2 Mixed deciduous forest
Both larger and smaller patches of mixed deciduous forest were usually characterised by a
diversity of tree species (including the conspicuous Lagerstroemia sp., absent from dry
15

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
dipterocarp forest), an uneven and partly inter-locking canopy, an absence of the corky blackened
lower trunks seen in dry dipterocarp forest, large amounts of a fine, whippy bamboo up to 2 m tall
and some stands of taller bamboo. The tallest forest was in valley bottoms around streams. In the
areas visited much of the understorey had been burnt.
Mixed deciduous forests were scarce and localised in the areas surveyed, and few patches were
large enough to be mapped. The largest areas observed were on steep rocky slopes along the
southern escarpment of Phou Lahit/Phou Chouang (Houay Louang valley) and the southern
escarpment of Phou Gnaphut/Phou Oupmoung/Phou Sako (Houay Dua valley), both with some
areas extending onto gentler slopes beyond the foot of the escarpment. Some patches of mixed
deciduous forest were seen along the Houay Xan valley. A belt between Phou Alang and the
mouth of Houay Louang was also probably mixed deciduous forest. Parts of the eastern
escarpment of PXT were observed from Route 13 to support mixed deciduous forest and the
extent in this part of the reserve was probably greater than shown on Figure 5.
Otherwise stands of mixed deciduous forest up to 200 m across were scattered amongst the more
widespread semi-evergreen forest (as patches on gravely or stony soil), dry dipterocarp forest
(around streams) and rocky savanna habitats (as a transitional habitat with semi-evergreen forest).
Such stands are best considered as part of a habitat mosaic, since individually they are too small to
support a typical mixed deciduous forest wildlife community.
3.1.3 Dry dipterocarp forest
Dry dipterocarp forests were much more localised than expected from topographic maps. Some
tracts, none larger than 6 km 2 , were shown by the pale green 'forêt claire' symbol, with or without
the brown triangles denoting rock outcrops (around Ban Phou Ka, two areas east of Ban Hatxeno,
east of Ban Khamteu and around Ban Donkoum). Some other sizable tracts (including one of 8
km 2 east of Phou Huaxang) and many smaller stands were denoted by white on the map, scattered
with symbols for rocks and for 'forêt clariere'. A second habitat, rocky savanna, also received the
latter symbols and it proved difficult to predict which of the two would be found at some sites.
3.1.4 Rocky savanna
Rocky savanna occurred mainly on gently sloping hilltops, ridge tops and valley sides, but not
valley bottoms or steep hillsides. There were numerous extensive flats (sometimes more than 100
m in diameter) of bare sandstone, black, purple or bleached white, with small knobbles or shallow
gullies across the surface. On hilltops these were sometimes capped by bizarre natural sculptures,
resembling mushrooms, tables or more elaborate shapes, due to differential erosion. Between the
pavements were beds of bare sand or gravel, and patchy vegetation. Soft grasses up to 1 m tall
occurred in patches up to 30 m across. The thin whippy bamboo, noted from mixed deciduous
forest, was common. Trees were predominantly small groups of stunted dipterocarps. Two
conspicuous shrubs were common, 'mai lep meau' ('cat's claws') with needle-sharp recurved thorns
and 'mai pud paa', apparently a relative of Lagerstroemia. Mai pud paa came into bloom late in
the survey following a number of heavy rainstorms, and the large white honey-scented flowers
were then a very attractive and obvious feature of the habitat. Stream beds across the rocky
savanna had little alluvium and mainly ran on bare rock. Some pits in the rock held water
throughout the dry season and a few of these were fringed with small palms, probably pandans.
The rocky savannas were dotted with stands of forest. Some patches of poor semi-evergreen
forest even occurred along stream beds and the feet of cliffs; they were rich in a tall, stout, smooth
bamboo.
The most extensive areas of rocky savanna observed were in the Houay Vangmoun, Houay Xan,
Houay Kok, Houay Lan, Hong Tat, Houay Lahit and Houay Phalaphang catchments (Figure 6).
3.1.5 Salt-licks
Reports of salt-licks were actively sought during most interviews. Three sites were reported
(Figure 6), as listed below. None were visited due to time constraints.
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Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Bong Itao (near Houay Vangmoun catchment). This is probably the most important of the licks
reported. It lies at the foot of the hill slopes north of Phou Siangthong and possibly outside the
current reserve boundary. It is expected to lie in semi-evergreen forest. It is only a few kilometres
from Ban Nadou and Ban Nondinxay. Banteng Bos javanicus, Sambar Cervus unicolor, Common
Muntjac Muntiacus muntjak and pigs Sus sp (p). were reported to use it during the rainy season.
Bong Houay Va (Houay Dua catchment): This is reportedly a small lick used by Sambar, pigs,
muntac and, perhaps, Asian Elephant Elephas maximus. It probably lies in semi-evergreen or
mixed deciduous riverine forest.
Name uncertain (Houay Xot-Noy or Houay Lan catchment): This is reportedly on a hilltop south
of Ban Kham-I and is used, amongst others, by elephants.
In addition, a termite mound in dry dipterocarp forest west of Houay Vangmoun not far from Lat
Foot had been visited at least once by wild cattle, possibly to eat the mineral-rich soil.
3.1.6 Wetlands
The main wetland in the reserve is the Mekong river. It was at its seasonal ebb during the survey,
and water levels apparently rise by 10 m or more during the rainy season. For long stretches the
river is several hundred metres wide and flows between steep earth banks 10-30 m high covered in
cane-grass, bushes, plots of cotton or tobacco and some bare earth. These stretches have a few
small rocky islets but almost no exposed sand.
In the north, around Ban Khamleusa, the river narrows between cliffs over 20 m high which are
topped by rocky flats up to 100 m across.
Further south (from Keng Gnaphut, the rapids upstream of Ban Kenggnaphut, to Ban
Khantamkhae and from upstream of Ban Khamteu down to Ban Seula, Figure 6) lie long reaches
where rocky outcrops also constrict the river, but the cliffs are at most a few metres high and there
are very extensive, uneven rocky flats and boulder piles which are flooded during the rainy season
but wholly exposed by March. These are diverse areas, with much bare dry mud, large and small
backwater pools, silty and sandy beaches or bars, rocky islets and clumps of bushes. The areas of
silt and sand are, however, relatively small. There is another rocky constriction of the Mekong at
Ban Thakhanxomxua, which was not visited, and a complex of rocky outcrops and islets around
Ban Mai, which was seen only briefly. All these areas are heavily used by people engaged in
fishing, cultivation and livestock herding, but would otherwise be valuable for many riverinespecialist
bird species.
A handful of small, seasonal pools were found in deciduous forest away from the Mekong, but
these are too few and too small to be of significance to large waterbirds or wetland mammals.
There are none marked on topographic maps.
All of the streams marked as flowing year-round on topographic maps were found to be seasonal,
except possibly Houay Kouang which was flowing strongly in late March and which has a village
next to it which presumably relies on it for water However, it may only have been flowing
because of recent rainstorms. These streams are all less than 8 m across except for Houay Dua,
whose bed is up to 12 m across in places. All steams are probably reduced to scattered pools in
March.
In rocky savanna areas, water sources are rare in March. Nonetheless, enough persistent pools
remain in the areas visited that no spot is more than a few hundred metres away from one. Thus
any larger mammal is likely to have a choice of waterholes within its territory, providing some
protection against disturbance or drought.
3.1.7 Lowland degraded areas
17

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Belts of alluvial soil along the Mekong near villages are in some places indicated on the
topographic maps as semi-evergreen forest, but in all cases these are now degraded and largely
composed of scrub, cultivation or bamboo and are shown as such on Figure 5.
3.2 Human use
Human uses are summarised in Table 4.
3.2.1 Presence and growth of villages
Fourteen settlements were observed close the Mekong, thirteen of them large, well-established,
permanent villages (Table 3, Figure 2). Only four of these are marked as permanent villages on
the 1985-87 topographic maps (surveyed in 1981-83), and two others were marked as 'Ban Hang'
(seasonal or abandoned villages). Many probably all, are still expanding. In many cases larger,
more substantial houses are being built, using local timber, to replace smaller, existing dwellings.
The seasonal settlement at the mouth of Houay Vangmoun may become permanent in the future.
At least eleven villages are present on the Thai bank of the river (Srikosamatara and Sutheethorn
1994). Inhabitants make at least as much use of the river for fishing as the Lao, and also farm
much of the west bank for bananas, tobacco and cotton. There was frequent daily traffic of people
between Lao and Thai villages. Army personnel are stationed at six locations along the Mekong
river.
Table 3 Characteristics of villages within PXT
Local Name
Ban Thakhanxomxua
Ban Khamleusa
Ban Phou Ka
unnamed seasonal settlement
at mouth of Houay Vangmoun
Ban Kenggnaphut
Ban Hatxeno
Ban Xanpan
Ban Khantoungxai
Ban Khantamkhae
Ban Khamteu
Ban Donkoum
Ban Seula
Ban Mai
Ban Latsua
Notes
Not visited. 55 houses in 1983. Road access.
Established about 1990. 21 houses in 1996. Road access.
Established about 1990. 24 houses in 1996. Road access.
Six or more huts. Base for people from Ban Nadou/Ban Nondinxay to
cultivate cotton. Mature banana stands suggest several years old.
Long-established. 40 or more houses plus military post. Road access.
About 15 houses.
Not visited.
About 20 houses. Road access.
About eight houses.
Long-established. 50 or more houses plus military post. Cart access.
About ten houses plus military post
Long-established. 60 or more houses, some built of breeze-blocks.
Long-established. More than 50 houses in 1996. Road access?
Not visited. Just outside reserve boundary, but surrounded by it on two sides.
At least 116 other villages were mapped in 1985-87 within 5 km of the northern, eastern and
southern boundaries of the reserve (Figure 2). The topographic maps indicate that even in 1983
many of these villages supported 50-150 households and they can now be expected to be larger.
Thus there is a far lower human population along the western or Mekong edge of the reserve. The
margins of the reserve away from the Mekong can be expected to support very much higher levels
of human use. Of these 116 villages, 74 are south of Muang Khongxedon and probably impact
mainly on the southern half of the reserve. Only 42 villages lie within 5 km of the northern half of
the reserve, which may thus experience somewhat less pressure. The number within 5-10 km is
also much lower in the north than the south, becasue of the presence of Xe Bang Nouan NBCA.
(see Figures).
3.2.2 Cultivation and clearance
Overall there is very little clearance for agriculture in the reserve (Figures 5 and 6) because the
soils are poor. The villages along the Mekong also specialise in catching and trading fish, which
is relatively lucrative and leaves little time for agriculture. The villages of Ban Khantoungxai,
Ban Khantamkhae and Ban Donkoum were not thought to have any significant area of rice
cultivation, wet or dry.
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Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Limited areas of rice paddies were seen scattered in dry dipterocarp forest near Ban Phou Ka, Ban
Kenggnaphut, Ban Hatxeno and Ban Kamteu. Areas of flat, low-lying land are apparently scarce
and a high proportion of suitable sites may be in use. Dry and wet rice fields near Ban Khamleusa
were in recently cleared semi-evergreen forest east of the village. More extensive cultivation was
visible in degraded forest around Ban Latsua from a viewpoint on the escarpment to the north.
The extent of cultivation around Ban Seula is not known
Away from villages there were also two isolated areas of dry rice cultivation within the reserve
between Ban Latsua and the Houay Phalaphang, at topographic map grid references 675970 and
678006, but neither seemed to have been cultivated in 1995/6. One area of active dry rice
cultivation was seen in mixed deciduous forest beside the road in to Ban Kenggnaphut at 776341
(see Figure 6 for all these sites).
A high proportion of the banks of the Mekong were cultivated with cotton, tobacco or salad
vegetables. These were mostly within 2-3 km of villages, but remote areas were also used.
Cotton cultivation was the main reason for the seasonal settlement at the mouth of Houay
Vangmoun. The cotton harvest was underway during the survey.
Banana plantations were observed in a few locations, including Ban Donkoum, Ban
Khantamkhae, Ban Senphan and the mouth of the Houay Vangmoun. They were reported from
the Houay Pong-Noy valley by people from Ban Khamteu. Much more extensive plantations
lined the Thai bank, particularly north of Ban Kenggnaphut.
One well-established coffee plantation (coffee bushes over 2 m tall) was observed at topographic
map grid reference 760308, close to Houay Dua (Figure 6).
3.2.3 Fishing and associated practices
Fishing was concentrated along the Mekong, where it seemed very intensive. The highest
densities of boats, floats and net anchorage poles were seen where the river was constricted
between rocky flats and cliffs, but even in wider sluggish reaches many were seen. Both Thai and
Lao villages are involved, but most of the fish are apparently sold to Thailand. The majority of
fishermen use canoes with outboard motors to set and check their nets. Many caves along both
banks of the river were occupied by families or larger groups making extended stays away from
their villages. At the Keng Gnaphut rapids, fishing was being conducted by hand using nets
suspended between two 5-8 m long poles.
Seasonal streams including Houay Xan, Houay Louang, Houay Phalaphang, Houay Dua, Houay
Saving and the unnamed stream at Dan Ngou Luam also showed signs of heavy fishing. Isolated
pools had been divided by dams and water scooped from one half to strand the fish. Netting and
sieving techniques were also seen being used and racks for drying fish or meat were common.
Several pools along the lower and uppermost Houay Phalaphang had many dead fish on the
surface, suggesting fishing using poison.
3.2.4 Hunting
The Bong Itao salt-lick is reported to be a site of especially high hunting pressure. For example,
seven Banteng were said to have been shot there in the previous rainy season.
One large hunting party was met, a group of ten men all with locally made guns and head torches,
on an extended stay in the headwaters of the Houay Phalaphang. Another large group of people
camped around the Houay Saving, (in the Houay Dua valley) had several guns between them and
gunshots were heard many times per day. Elsewhere (away from villages) gunshots were heard
less frequently, but the low densities of larger mammals and birds indicated that hunting pressure
has been high and sustained in many parts of the reserve. A high proportion of groups
encountered had at least one gun.
19

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Soldiers conducting border patrols are based in the reserve and often camp in the interior. They
can be expected to shoot a great deal of wildlife, since they have powerful weapons, limited funds
for food purchases and a great deal of time with little else to do.
A blind by a pool was observed by Houay Luat and another was constructed by a soldier acting as
a guide at Dan Ngou Luam.
One 70 m snare-line was found beside a logging site near Houay Phalaphang and one netted
partridge was confiscated from hunters on Phou Sabao-Gnai. Some snares were seen on Phou
Alang. Lines of hooks were seen by pools at Ban Donkoum to catch drinking birds. Other
evidence of trapping was the presence of Siamese Fireback Lophura diardi feathers at abandoned
campsites and in villages.
3.2.5 Timber extraction
The great majority of the northern third of the reserve was mechanically logged around 1990-
1991. A network of logging tracks was seen and the forest clearly lacks big trees other than the
yang oil trees which have been left for resin extraction.
The steeper slopes elsewhere in the reserve have prevented vehicle access but the forest
nonetheless lacks large trees. This may be partly due to low rainfall or poor soils, but there may
also have been a moderate amount of logging by hand in many areas. Scattered felled trees were
seen throughout the reserve, even in quite remote areas such as the middle Houay Phalaphang
valley; these were generally being cut to shape as posts or planks for house construction before
removal.
More intensive logging was seen along Houay Luat (in the Houay Louang catchment) where 20 or
more trees were seen recently felled, reportedly by people from Ban Xaimon and Ban Nakok. The
heaviest logging was along the road to Ban Kenggnaphut. Here at least 50 recently felled trees
were seen within 10 m of the road. East of Dan Hang towards Route 13, the road had several
driveable side-tracks in semi-evergreen forest, presumably used for logging (Figure 6).
3.2.6 Tapping for Yang oil
Resin wells were commonly seen in semi-evergreen forest wherever soil was rich enough to
support the large dipterocarp trees required. Along the Houay Phalaphang (where a few trees had
multiple wells) these seemed to be in pockets along meanders close to the river. Along the Houay
Dua valley they were more scattered. Tapped trees were also seen widely in the Houay Khouang,
Houay Sanan and Houay Vangmoun catchments. None were noted in dry dipterocarp forest.
Since the observers were not competent to identify the various species of large dipterocarp present
it was not possible to establish the number of untapped trees, but since so few large trees of any
type were present the proportion is probably quite high.
3.2.7 Grazing by domestic cattle
See Figure 6. Herds of 20-100 head of cattle were observed being brought in from pasture each
evening in Ban Phou Ka, Ban Khamleusa, Ban Kenggnaphut, Ban Hatxeno, Ban Khantoungxai
and Ban Khamteu. At the end of the dry season they were being grazed on the river banks and in
dry dipterocarp forest in valley bottoms close to the villages. All villages also had some water
buffalo. When pastures improve during the rainy season, the following areas are among those
where domestic cattle area grazed, judging from reports and signs (Figure 6): the top of the
escarpment above Ban Latsua; Phou Lahit/Phou Chouang, the wedge between Houay Luat and
Houay Louang; deciduous forest areas east of Ban Khamleusa, an area well north of Ban Phou Ka
and, presumably, several others. There remain areas where few or no domestic cattle appeared to
be pastured, but this needs confirmation and closer study. The observed stocking levels seem
unlikely to cause more than temporary or very localised over-grazing.
20

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
All villages with cattle reported predation (in some cases repeated incidents already this year) by
big cats, apparently including both Tiger Panthera tigris and Leopard Panthera pardus.
3.2.8 Forest fires
Evidence of regular forest understorey fires was widespread throughout mixed deciduous and dry
dipterocarp forests. For example looking south after dark from Phou Khai (Figure 2) on 19 March
ten separate fires could be seen, a large number and probably typical of most of the reserve at the
height of the dry season. Fires were also observed in semi-evergreen forest along the road to Ban
Kenggnaphut and in the Houay Xan valley (where the understorey comprised large bamboos
which produce highly flammable leaf litter).
3.3 Critical habitats and threats
3.3.1 Critical habitats
The following habitats are localised and support Key species which are particularly vulnerable to
human activity:
Salt-licks. Three were reported (Figures 6 and 10). Of these the most important is probably Bong
Itao, because of the reported presence of Banteng. Wild cattle, commoner ungulates and perhaps
elephants are at elevated risk of hunting at these sites.
Rocky savannas. This is probably a key habitat for wild cattle, especially Banteng, since it
supports extensive patches of grass. Other grazing animals (e.g. deer and hares) probably also
prefer these areas, which may result in high levels of use by large predators (big cats, Dhole Cuon
alpinus if present). It is also the predominant habitat for Green Peafowl Pavo muticus in PXT.
The good visibility may result in great vulnerability of animals to hunters The total area is quite
extensive, but the habitat is concentrated in the following three major areas (Figure 6), in each of
which it occurs as a mosaic with other forest types:
1. a large area around the catchments of Houay Vangmoun, Houay Xiangla anf Houay Xan
2. the Houay Kok catchment and western parts of the Houay Lan and Houay Pong catchments,
including Hong Tat
3. the middle Houay Phalaphang valley, including Dan Louang, Dan Ngu Luam and parts of the
neighbouring Houay Talo catchment
Riverine rocky flats. The main stretches are shown on Figure 6. This is the most important
habitat for Wire-tailed Swallow, River Lapwing and Small Pratincole. The latter two are
vulnerable to human disturbance, which is high throughout this habitat in PXT. Islands are
probably the least disturbed sites within this habitat type. The most important complex of islands
occurs between Ban Donkoum and Ban Seula (villages 19 and 20 on Figure 6).
Tall semi-evergreen forest The main areas were observed on Phou Alang and Phou Sabao-Gnai,
where they occupy the flat summits. Other stands of tall forest may also occur on other table
mountains (Figure 6, for names see Figure 8). These stands are probably prime habitat for Redcollared
Woodpecker and primates, although hunting on the flat peaks is relatively easy and few
primates may now occur.
3.3.2 Critical threats
Table 4 presents the major human uses, approximately ranked according to their effects on Key
species. Threats are assessed in terms of their ability to reduce the PXT populations of Key
species or result in their extinction, with greater weight being given to Key species which occur in
globally or nationally important populations in PXT.
21

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Among the threats to the survival of Key wildlife species, hunting seems to be the most serious,
acute and widespread. Several other human activities have an associated increase in hunting
pressure as their principal negative impact.
Three forms of targetted hunting impact species for which PXT populations are especially
significant in a national or global context, namely:
- Shhoting of wild cattle (presumably hunted in part for trophies) at Bong Itao and probably
elsewhere.
- Killing of big cats suspected of killing livestock, and possibly also at other times for the value of
their body parts.
- Shooting of Green Peafowl Pavo muticus. Egg-collecting has been noted in Attopu Province
(WCS 1995) and may also be a problem in PXT, although it was not reported.
No direct evidence or report of elephant hunting was obtained but it may be the reason for the
current low population level.
The herding of cattle as it is now conducted can be viewed as a very significant threat because it
brings big cats into conflict with people (see previous point). However, the herding is not, in itself,
necessarily destructive at the levels observed, if the conflict with cats can be reduced to an
acceptable level.
The potential establishment of a new permanent village at the mouth of Houay Vangmoun would
result in a great increase in general hunting levels in the important Houay Vangmoun and Houay
Xiangla catchments.
The growth of enclave villages by birth and immigration will lead to proportionate increases in
human use but the extent of the problem could not be gauged. The very great growth of the
population by immigration since 1983 (Section 3.2.1) suggests that further growth may also be
rapid.
The improvement of road access to Ban Khamteu, if it took place, would result in greatly
increased hunting activity, both through improved access for hunters from outside the reserve and
improved access to markets for people in Ban Khamteu. Access to important areas not far from
the road, for example the Phou Sabao massif and the rocky savannas of the middle Houay
Phalaphang, would also be markedly easier for hunters.
Hunting is an immediate threat to the survival of the PXT populations of Douc Langur Pygathrix
nemaeus and gibbon Hylobates species, which occur in populations which are not globally
significant . They are thought to be quite localised (Figure 8).
Disturbance by fishermen on islands along the Mekong is likely to lead to the loss of Small
Pratincole Glareola lactea from PXT. River Lapwing Vanellus duvaucelli may be similarly
affected in the longer term.
Other threats were thought to be of moderate or lower concern. Opportunistic hunting probably
occurs at quite high levels thoughout the reserve, especially close to villages, along the main
access routes and along the eastern fringe where human population density is high. This hunting
is probably still impacting on smaller Key species such as macaques, Siamese Fireback, pittas,
Gren Imperial-Pigeon and Coral-billed Ground Cuckoo in areas where they have not yet been
extirpated. Continued intensive hunting will depress the populations of these species and prevent
the recovery of populations of the larger mammals such as deer, pigs, wild cattle, gibbons and
possibly elephants to the population levels the habitat can probably support.
Habitat degradation by cultivation and small-scale logging is localized and does not affect critical
habitats, so is not thought to be a pressing problem. Opportunistic hunting associated with these
activities is locally of moderate concern, and is probably more damaging than the cultivation
itself.
22

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
The long-term effects of fire and grazing in the deciduous habitats are not known. Fire is very
widespread and may be progressively degrading these habitats, although rocky savanna, the
predominant deciduous habitat, seems to have few characteristics which could be degraded by
fire.
23

Table 4 Some human uses of PXT
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Use Location Severity (1) Specific action (2)
Hunting
Throughout, mainly near
habitation, cultivation, major trails
and resin-collecting sites.
Opportunistic. Affects primates,
ungulates, pheasants and others.
HIGH
Monitor, but allow continuing use for local
consumption. Prevent development of
commercial trade. Control in core areas for
selected methods (e.g. snaring of ground
birds).
Targeted hunting of valuable
species (e.g. wild cattle, Serow,
Tiger, Peafowl)
VERY HIGH
Halt. Consider establishing core areas where
human access is restricted.
Cattle-grazing
Killing of livestock-raiding cats.
Dry season herds at Ban Phou Ka,
Ban Khamleusa, Ban
Kenggnaphut, Ban Hatxeno and
Ban Khamteu.
VERY HIGH
Probably LOW. Associated
killing of big cats probably
VERY HIGH
Halt except for exceptional cases. Reduce
livestock losses by improved husbandry and
compensate losses.
Monitor expansion. Reduce conflict with big
cats by improving husbandry and
compensating for losses.
Wet season grazing at Ban Latsua;
Phou Lahit/Phou Chouang, the
wedge between Houay Luat and
Houay Louang; east of Ban
Khamleusa.
Probably LOW. Associated
killing of big cats probably
VERY HIGH
Village
Mouth of Houay Vangmoun Potentially VERY HIGH Prevent
establishment
Village expansion All villages Unknown, but rate high over Monitor
past decade. Impact
potentially MODERATE to
HIGH since many other uses
increase in parallel.
Fishing and
associated
practices
Mekong river
Resin tapping
Cotton, tobacco
and vegetable
cultivation
Dry rice
cultivation
Forest fires
Wet rice
cultivation
Logging
Banana
plantations
Streams and pools in all areas
Throughout, especially in semievergreen
forest
Banks of Mekong (throughout),
including remote areas
Two small areas between Ban
Latsua and Houay Phalaphang, one
near Houay Dua
Widespread throughout mixed
deciduous and dry dipterocarp
forest and rocky savanna
Limited areas near Ban Phou Ka,
Ban Khamleusa, Ban
Kenggnaphut, Ban Hatxeno and
Ban Kamteu. More extensive
around Ban Latsua.
Several areas, notably Houay Luat
and road to Ban Kenggnaphut
Ban Khantamkhae, Ban Donkoum,
Ban Senam and mouth of Houay
Vangmoun. Reported from Houay
Pong-Noy valley.
Probably high effects on fish,
but not on Key birds or
mammals. Incidental
disturbance VERY HIGH.
As above. Associated hunting
HIGH
LOW. Associated hunting
MODERATE
LOW, associated hunting and
disturbance MODERATE
LOW, associated hunting
MODERATE?
Unknown, probably quite low
in the medium-term. Locally
MODERATE where degrading
semi-evergreen forest
LOW
LOW impacts on Key species,
Levels moderate in two areas
and high near villages
LOW
Determine sites. Reduce conflict with cats as
above. Investigate possibility of keeping
some pastures free for wild cattle.
Investigate sustainability.
Consider preventing access to certain islands
required by nesting river birds.
Forbid chemical fishing.
Consider restriction in certain core areas.
Monitor
Discourage in remoter areas, especially
where overnight stays required.
Determine villages involved. Discourage use
or expansion., and search for other areas.
Unknown
Monitor expansion
Promote efficient use for subsistence needs
Prevent large-scale commercial cutting by
outside interests.
None
Coffee planting Plantation at Houay Dua LOW Prevent expansion
Other non-timber
forest products
Throughout Unknown Establish species sought;
assess exploitation levels
(1) Assessments are provisional: significant activities may have been overlooked or be seasonal. Subjective
assessments ofthreat include of direct effects on Key species populations as well as indirect consequences.
24

PART 4: FINDINGS WITH RESPECT TO WILDLIFE
4.1 Birds
4.1.1 Completeness of coverage
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Coverage was brief, yet fairly representative in view of the limited array of altitudinal zones and
habitat types and the naturally low richness of species in some of them. A number of additional
Key species can be expected to occur, given further fieldwork.
Semi-evergreen forest is the most extensive habitat. The avifauna of areas below 500 m was quite
well studied, although some species, in particular those which were not calling during the survey
period, were doubtless overlooked. The remoter and steeper areas of semi-evergreen forest above
500 m were not covered. They require further survey work, seeking such species as Brown
Hornbill Ptilolaemus tickelli, Coral-billed Ground-Cuckoo Carpococcyx renauldi and Silver
Pheasant Lophura nycthemera.
Coverage was most complete for rocky savanna habitats, with the best visibility and the lowest
species richness. Further areas need to be visited before the complete distribution of Green
Peafowl is known.
Other deciduous habitats were more poorly characterised and coverage was especially cursory in
dry dipterocarp forest. However, mixed deciduous and dry dipterocarp forests have low priority
for further coverage, since they are less extensive and less likely to support species of high
conservation concern.
A clear picture of the status of riverine Key species was gained, since there are few species, they
are relatively conspicuous and many boat journeys were made.
A full list of species recorded and their status in each sector is given in Annex 4, along with
detailed accounts of all Key species recorded.
4.1.2 Overview of the importance of PXT for birds
A total of 16 Key species were confirmed or provisionally identified in the reserve (Table 5). Of
these three are Globally threatened and five others (two provisionally identified) are Globally
near-threatened. This is a relatively small number compared with some other reserves surveyed
recently in Laos, but is explained by the quality and diversity of habitat and the limited number of
altitudinal zones. Populations of many of the Key species seemed quite low, presumably due to a
combination of hunting and, in some locations, logging, but natural factors connected with the
quality of the semi-evergreen forest are also thought to be important. The locations of some
records of Key bird species are shown on Figure 7.
The most important Key bird species is Green Peafowl (Globally threatened). This species has
declined very severely all over South-East Asia and is rapidly approaching extinction in Laos
(Evans and Timmins in press). PXT is one of the few reserves in Laos which offer the chance to
protect a viable population. A modest and dispersed population was found, with one main
concentration. In PXT, rocky savanna seemed to be the preferred habitat, usually in areas with
semi-evergreen or mixed deciduous forest nearby and a ready supply of water. This habitat is
quite extensive in PXT and could probably support a much larger population in the absence of
hunting pressure.
Only one other Key species typical of deciduous forest was found, Black-headed Woodpecker
Picus erythropygius (Regionally at risk). This was limited to the relatively small areas of dry
dipterocarp forest. It is likely that this species, and the other deciduous forest Key species not
recorded (see Section 4.1.3) find rocky savanna unsuitable habitat.
Two semi-evergreen forest species, Siamese Fireback (Globally threatened) and Bar-bellied Pitta
Pitta ellioti (Globally near-threatened) were believed to occur at moderately healthy densities and
25

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
may have moderately large total populations. Laos supports a high proportion of the total world
population of these two species and PXT probably has a significant fraction of the total within
protected areas in Laos. The less threatened and more widespread Hill Myna Gracula religiosa
(Regionally at risk) and Javan Frogmouth Batrachostomus javensis (Regionally at risk;
provisionally identified) also occur in healthy numbers in parts of the reserve.
Four other semi-evergreen forest species were much scarcer and apparently highly localised. This
may be in part due to logging in the case of Red-collared Woodpecker Picus rabieri (Globally
threatened), hunting for Green Imperial-Pigeon Ducula aenea (Regionally at risk) and snaring for
Coral-billed Ground-Cuckoo (Globally near-threatened). However, the scarcity of Grey-faced
Tit-Babbler Macronous kelleyi (Globally near-threatened) and the scarcity or absence of various
other small passerines of no conservation concern which do not experience such threats (for
example Mountain Fulvetta Alcippe peracensis, Little Spiderhunter Arachnothera magnirostris
and Purple-naped Sunbird Hypogrammica hypogrammicum) suggests that the natural forest type
in PXT may also be unsuitable - possibly being too dry and low in stature.
Table 5 Key bird species in PXT
Importance
Threat from
Global National Habitat Hunting and Specific action required
degradation disturbance
Grey Heron Very low Very low Very low Mid None urgent
Siamese Fireback Mid Mid Mid Mid Discourage snaring/hunting
Green Peafowl High Very high Very low Very high Prevent hunting. Locate
other sites.
River Lapwing Low Mid Very low Probably mid Reduce disturbance in
nesting areas
Small Pratincole Low Low Very low Probably mid
or high
Reduce disturbance on the
few favoured islands
Green Imperial-Pigeon Low Mid Low Probably mid Discourage hunting.
Coral-billed Ground-Cuckoo Low Mid? Probably mid Probably mid Establish status. Discourage
snaring and burning in the
Houay Xan valley.
[Javan Frogmouth] Low Mid Low Very low None urgent
Red-collared Woodpecker Low Low-Mid High Low Prevent logging of semievergreen
forest
Black-headed Woodpecker Low Low Low Low None urgent
Bar-bellied Pitta Mid Mid Low Mid Discourage snaring
Blue-rumped/Blue-naped Pitta Unknown Unknown Low Mid Discourage snaring
Wire-tailed Swallow Low High Very low Probably low None urgent
[Brown-rumped Minivet] Low Low Low Very low None urgent
Grey-faced Tit-Babbler Low Low Mid Very low Locate other occupied areas.
Discourage logging and fires
in these areas.
Hill Myna Low Low Low Probably mid. Discourage trapping
Key
Species in square brackets provisionally identified.
Very low: species unimportant on a global or national scale
Low: species low in importance, or small population in PXT if species more important
Mid: medium priority species with the PXT population globally or nationally significant
High: high priority species or major population of medium priority species
Very high: critically threatened species with significant population.
Threats assessed on an intuitive scale.
The other important group of Key species is those requiring large rivers. Several of those which
would once have been present (River Tern Sterna aurantia, Black-bellied Tern Sterna acuticauda,
Little Tern Sterna albifrons and Great Thick-knee Esacus recurvirostris) are almost certainly
extinct in PXT, as they are throughout most of Laos and South-East Asia, due to human
disturbance and hunting. Three Key riverine bird species remain. Of these Small Pratincole
26

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
(Regionally at risk) was present in very small numbers and may be at risk of extinction in PXT.
River Lapwing (National Historical Decline) was present in modest numbers and still appears to
breed, whilst the population of Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii (Regionally at risk) was by
far the densest and largest found on recent surveys in Laos. This is also one of the few known
populations of Wire-tailed Swallow not at risk from hydro-electric power projects.
4.1.4 Key bird species not recorded
A great number of key species for which the habitat appears suitable were not recorded. Some
must have occurred formerly but are now extinct or very rare. These include River Tern, Blackbellied
Tern, Great Thick-knee, three species of vulture and various large waterbirds such as
storks and ibises. The absence of several of these species, including the thick-knee and vultures,
was consistently confirmed during interviews. Wreathed Rhyticeros undulatus, Great Buceros
bicornis and perhaps also Brown Hornbills may once have occurred but are reported to be
extremely scarce or absent, and there were no records. Large hornbills have been confirmed to
persist in every other NBCA surveyed in recent years, suggesting that, by comparison, PXT is
particularly poor for them. Two conspicuous riverine species, Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis and
Plain Martin Riparia paludicola, are unlikely to have been affected by hunting but still appear to
be absent from PXT. The reason for their dramatic decline in Laos and current extreme rarity
remains unknown (Thewlis et al. in prep.).
Four conspicuous deciduous forest birds (Rufous-winged Buzzard Butastur liventer, Whiterumped
Falcon Polihierax insignis, White-bellied Woodpecker Dryocopus javensis and
Alexandrine Parakeet Psittacula eupatria) are absent or occur in very low numbers, perhaps
because the areas of dry dipterocarp or mixed deciduous forest are rather small. None of the four
are known to live in rocky savanna. The parakeet may also have been affected by trapping (it has
become extinct in Pha Taem National Park in Thailand, Lekagul and Round [1991]).
A variety of secretive semi-evergreen forest species may have been overlooked, for example
Malayan Night-Heron Gorsachius melanolophus, Eastern Green Magpie Cissa hypoleuca,
Golden-crested Myna Ampeliceps coronatus and Pompadour Pigeon Treron pompadora. There
may be insufficient hill slope forest for three other secretive species, Silver Pheasant, Bar-backed
Partridge Arborophila brunneopectus and Grey Peacock-Pheasant Polyplectron bicalcaratum,
although one informant did describe what seemed to be Silver Pheasant from the Houay Louang
area, and the highest parts of the reserve were not surveyed.
4.1.5 Threats to birds
Green Peafowl are threatened solely by hunting, which may include opportunistic hunting for
food, targeted hunting to obtain the decorative train feathers for sale and capture of young birds
for rearing or sale.
Habitat loss is not apparently a significant problem for any species within the reserve. However,
logging has almost certainly reduced the value of the semi-evergreen forests for several species,
above all Red-collared Woodpecker. In the longer term, progressive degradation of the semievergreen
forests by fire and logging will reduce their extent and value to the important
populations of Siamese Fireback and Bar-bellied Pitta.
The generally high pressure from hunting and snaring, especially, it is thought, along the eastern
edge of the reserve, must depress populations of Siamese Fireback, Bar-bellied Pitta, Green
Imperial-Pigeon and Coral-billed Ground-Cuckoo.
The three riverine species live in areas of high human activity. Wire-tailed Swallows are small,
unlikely to be hunted and nest on cliffs, often out of reach of people. They seem to be under little
threat at present. River Lapwing and Small Pratincole are larger and nest on flatter areas where
they are vulnerable to human nest-robbers, domestic dogs and incidental disturbance (forcing nest
desertion or allowing crows to rob the nests). Small Pratincole were observed in just one area
where a complex of islands presumably gave some refuge from disturbance.
27

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
PART 4.2 Mammals
4.2.1 Completeness of coverage
Coverage was much less complete for mammals than for birds, because most mammal species are
much harder to detect. Ease of detection and level of coverage were sufficient to give a
satisfactory picture of distribution and abundance for only three types of mammal: diurnal
squirrels, treeshrews and gibbons.
Low encounter rates with most other diurnal species were sufficient to indicate that densities were
in general terms very low but insufficient to indicate locations within PXT which may still support
moderate densities. This information had to be deduced from other evidence, including reports,
patterns of human use and the distribution of more easily detected hunting-sensitive species such
as gibbons and large birds.
Direct coverage of both small and large nocturnal mammals was very limited (Annex 5).
However, seaches for the signs of the larger nocturnal species were quite productive, especially in
rocky savanna areas, where droppings become sun-dried rather than decaying and footprints are
easily visible. It was felt that a broadly accurate picture was gained of the distributions of the
largest species (although signs were seldom unequivocally identifiable to species), a picture which
was independently supported by information from interviews.
There are almost certainly a moderate number of smaller Key species and a few larger ones yet to
be detected in PXT. Agreat deal of further work would be necessary to confirm the provisional
conclusions presented below confirming the precise numbers and distribution of those species
which have been confirmed.
A full list of species recorded and their status n each sector is given in Annex 5, along with
detailed accounts of records of each Key species.
4.2.2 Overview of the importance of PXT for mammals
The Key species recorded in PXT are shown in Table 8. They can be considered in a number of
groups.
One nocturnal primate, Slow Loris Nycticebus coucang (Regionally at risk), was found in good
numbers where it was sought and is probably in no danger. It was not possible to locate Pygmy
Loris Nycticebus pygmaeus (Globally threatened), but further searches may well reveal its
presence.
Records and reliable reports of diurnal primates are shown in Figure 8. They occur in low
numbers, probably due to high hunting pressure. Their numbers may also be low due to the
relatively poor quality of the semi-evergreen forest in parts of PXT. The easiest to detect was a
gibbon species (Globally threatened), because of their loud territorial songs, and numbers of these
were very low. The very small number of other primate records suggests that the same is true for
the whole group. It has been observed elsewhere in Laos that the status of gibbons is a good
indicator of the presence of other primates. Reports and records suggested that the table
mountains in the south and centre of the reserve are the main refuges for primates. Their total area
is not very large and they are isolated from one another, so they are unlikely to support viable
long-term populations unless protectin is improved over a wider area. The two most vulnerable
species, gibbon and Douc Langur (Globally threatened), are at risk of extinction in the reserve in
the foreseeable future (indeed, it was not possible to confirm that Douc Langur is still present).
Several species of large carnivore are probably present, since signs of big cats (Globally
threatened or Regionally at risk), bears (Globally threatened) and, provisionally, Dhole Cuon
alpinus (Globally threatened) were found (Figure 9). However, signs were rare for all except one
size of big cat, suspected to be Leopard (Regionally at risk). The population of these in PXT is
probably quite large (in excess of ten individuals). In all other reserves surveyed in Laos signs
28

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
presumed to be of Leopard have been very rare or absent, so the population in PXT is probably of
national importance. Tigers (Globally threatened) are also reported to be present, but probably
number very few.
It was widely reported that only a single group of two Asian Elephants Elephas maximus
(Globally threatened) remains in the reserve, along the Houay Dua valley (where presence was
confirmed, Figure 10). This population seems doomed to extinction unless immigration occurs
from the slightly larger population in Xe Bang Nouan NBCA (Timmins and Bleisch 1995).
Signs attributed to wild cattle were found in two broad areas of the reserve, probably representing
two separate populations (Figure 10). Reports and the shape of the footprints suggest that most
are Banteng rather than Gaur Bos gaurus (both Globally threatened), but this requires
confirmation. Numbers are modest - at least ten individuals, possibly several times as many, most
of them in the northern area. The only other indications of significant Banteng populations in
Laos have been from Xe Pian NBCA (Duckworth et al. 1993) and Xe Khampho proposed
protected area (TE, pers. obs.), but neither is known to be large. Thus PXT probably has a
population of national significance. Gaur are still a little commoner in Laos and any PXT
population is likley to be of lower significance.
Table 8 Key mammal species of PXT
Species
Importance of PXT
population
Threat from
Action required
Globally Nationally Habitat Hunting
degradation
Slow Loris Low Low-mid Low Low None urgent
Pig-tailed Macaque Low Low Mid (localised
logging)
Mid
Status survey. Prevent hunting of
primates and logging.
Long-tailed
Macaque
Low Low Mid (localised
logging)
Mid
Status survey. Prevent hunting of
primates and logging.
[Stump-tailed
Macaque]
Unknown Unknown Mid (localised
logging)
Mid
Status survey. Prevent hunting of
primates and logging.
[Douc Langur] Unknown Unknown Mid (localised
logging)
High
Status survey. Prevent hunting of
primates and logging.
Gibbon Low Low Mid (localised
logging)
High
Status survey. Prevent hunting of
primates and logging.
[Dhole] Unknown Unknown Low High Prevent hunting. Investigate
interaction with domestic stock.
Bears Probably low Low ? Low ? High Prevent hunting.
[Small cats] Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown
Big Cats Low Probably
high
Low High Prevent hunting. Investigate
interaction with domestic stock.
Asian Elephant Low Low Low Unknown Status survey. Investigate threats,
risk of crop damage.
Wild Cattle Low to mid High Probably low. High Status survey. Prevent hunting,
especially at Bong Itao.
[Southern Serow] Unknown Unknown Low High Status survey. Prevent hunting.
Finlayson's Squirrel Low to mid Mid Low Low None urgent.
Key
Species in square brackets have not been confirmed to occur in PXT but there are credible reports
or provisionally identified records of their presence.
Very low: species unimportant on a global or national scale
Low: species low in importance, or small population in PXT if species more important
Mid: medium priority species with the PXT population globally or nationally significant
High: high priority species or major population of medium priority species
Very high: critically threatened species with significant population.
Threats assessed on an intuitive scale.
Signs provisionally identified as Southern Serow Naemorhedus sumatrensis (Regionally at risk)
were found in at least one area and they were often reported. The abundance of small cliffs and
29

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
mosaic of open and closed forest are probably good habitat for this species, but it is heavily
hunted because of its value for traditional medicine (Salter 1993). There are few areas truly
inaccessible to humans which might offer secure refuge for the species.
Finally, Finlayson’s Squirrel Callosciurus finlaysoni (Regionally at risk), the typical red squirrel
of lowland southern Laos, was found quite commonly in a variety of habitats and is under little
threat.
4.2.3 Threats to mammals
The major acute threat to Key mammal species is excessive hunting. There are various aspects to
the hunting problem. Opportunistic hunting occurs when people enter the forest to undertake
other activities, such as logging, cultivation, fishing or merely travel to other villages. Patrolling
soldiers probably also conduct a great deal of opportunistic hunting. This is probably an
important factor depressing the populations of the larger, commoner species such as Sambar
Cervus unicolor, Common Muntjac Muntiacus muntjak Wild Pig Sus scrofa and macaques.
Other people have hunting as their main objective, and may either attempt to shoot the commoner
species (such as squirrels and pheasants) or target the large and most valuable species (Green
Peafowl, Southern Serow, wild cattle, Tiger and possibly Asian Elephant). Little information was
gathered about the latter form of hunting, which is the most destructive, but the locations of some
of the quarry species are quite restricted and well known, suggesting that hunters would find it
easy to further reduce the already depleted populations of these species. The most destructive
hunting probably occurs at the salt-licks, especially Bong Itao, which is used by the wild cattle in
the Houay Vangmoun/Houay Xiangla sector. Two other salt-licks reported (Section 3.1.5, Figures
6 and 10) may also experience high hunting pressure.
Ban Mai, in the south of the reserve, is known to be a major illegal trading post for wildlife parts
from a wide area of Laos (e.g. Srikosamatra and Sutheethorn 1994) and may act as market for
much of the wildlife illegally killed or captured in PXT.
The third important hunting activity is the killing of livestock-killing big cats. Livestock
predation was widely reported and the reported efforts to kill the culprits (for instance at Ban
Donkoum) are of major concern for the relatively large population of big cats in the reserve. The
populations of natural prey (especially Sambar, Wild Boar and Common Muntjac) have probably
been lowered by hunting, compounding the problem.
One possible problem which requires investigation is the risk of competition between domestic
and wild cattle for pastures. However, this is felt likely to be at worst a localised problem, since
the numbers of wild cattle are almost certainly artificially low due to hunting and domestic stock
grazing is neither intensive nor widespread. Should the population increase through protection,
conflicts may occur. At present the probable presence of armed herders in remote areas during the
rainy season may pose a more direct threat to the wild cattle.
30

4.3 Reptiles
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
4.3.1 Overview of the importance of PXT for reptiles
None of the survey participants was a herpetologist, so records and reports collected were of a
cursory nature.
Reports of Siamese Crocodiles Crocodilus siamensis (Globally threatened) were sought actively,
since previous reconnaissance surveys had suggested that populations survived in the reserve
(Salter 1993). However, most reports were negative or very vague, with people mentioning that
they still occur in the Mekong mainstream or in the headwaters of, for instance, Houay Louang.
Further investigation is required but it seems doubtful that the species survives in the few pockets
of suitable habitat that may exist along the lower reaches of the main streams.
Four shells of the Yellow or Elongated Tortoise Indotestudo elongata (Globally threatened) were
found in villages and one live one was found in dry dipterocarp forest close to the edge of semievergreen
forest near Houay Vangmoun. This species is known elsewhere in Laos to be
associated with dry, open forests of pine, dipterocarps or mixed deciduous tree species. It is not
known whether it lives in rocky savannas. The local name, ‘tao phek’, was the same as noted
elsewhere on recent surveys (TE, pers. obs.).
Several other species were described by villagers, but without shells it was impossible to confirm
their identities.
The ease with which our guides’ dogs caught five individuals of the monitor Varanus salvator
(Regionally at risk) in three days during surveys in the Houay Sanan and Houay Vangmoun
catchments suggested that the population densities are high.
4.3.2 Threats to reptiles
If crocodiles still occur they can be expected to experience high hunting pressure in the smaller
streams. They must also be at permanent high risk of accidental entanglement in fishing nets in
the Mekong. Such animals would presumably be killed or taken alive and sold to Thai traders,
since there is reportedly a ready market for them, and they are worth a great deal of money to the
catcher.
Yellow Tortoises and monitors are probably taken for food whenever they are found. They are
easily detected by dogs.
31

5. PROPOSED ACTION FOCUS
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
5.1 Conclusions concerning the most significant species, habitats and threats
A moderate number of Key bird species were confirmed to occur. Green Peafowl was considered
to occur in a population of mid to high global importance. Two other species, Siamese Fireback
and Bar-bellied Pitta, occur in populations which may be of moderate global importance. Wiretailed
Swallow occurs in a population of high national importance, whilst River Lapwing, Green
Imperial-Pigeon and Coral-billed Ground-Cuckoo occur in populations which may be of moderate
national importance. Small Pratincole occurs in a population of low significance but could
potentially be more numerous and is in danger of extinction in PXT.
No mammals are thought to occur in populations of high global importance but wild cattle
(probably mainly Banteng) occur in a population of low to mid global importance and high
national importance. Big cats, probably mainly Leopards with a few Tigers, occur in populations
of high national significance. Primates of several species occur, but numbers were low to very
low and no populations are thought to be of particular significance. A small number of elephants
occurs, possibly only two individuals.
Semi-evergreen forest dominates most sectors, usually in a mosaic with deciduous forest types. It
is the predominant habitat for Siamese Fireback and Bar-bellied Pitta, which both appear
widespread, and Green Imperial-Pigeon, which appears to be scarce and patchily distributed.
Rocky savanna is a very significant part of the habitat mosaic in three main areas of the reserve.
In PXT it appears to be the principal habitat of Green Peafowl and also an important habitat type
for wild cattle (probably Banteng) and big cats.
Mixed deciduous forest and dry dipterocarp forest occur in many areas as small parts of the habitat
mosaic and in a few areas as continuous blocks of moderate size. These habitats are thought to be
less significant for those Key species present in important populations.
Three salt-licks were reported. One, Bong Itao, is reported to be especially significant for wild
cattle in the northern part of the reserve. The other two are reportedly not used by wild cattle but
may be significant for elephants.
Extensive rocky areas are an important habitat feature along the course of the Mekong. These are
the main habitat for Wire-tailed Swallow, River Lapwing and Small Pratincole. The pratincoles
were only found in one limited area, where they were associated with rocky islets.
The most significant threat to Key species was felt to be hunting. Specific very severe threats are
the targeted hunting of wild cattle (especially at Bong Itao); the possible killing of livestockraiding
big cats and the shooting of Green Peafowl. Grazing of domestic cattle on remote areas
during the rainy season probably brings them nto more conflict with big cats.
More general opportunistic hunting pressure is thought to be a major threat to many Key species,
including the big cats, cattle and peafowl mentioned above as well as primates, Green Imperial-
Pigeon, Coral-billed Ground-Cuckoo, Siamese Fireback, Bar-bellied Pitta and varous species
which occur in less significant populations in PXT.
Heavy disturbance by fishermen along the Mekong is thought to be severely threatening Small
Pratincole and, probably, River Lapwing.
A permanent settlement may be in the process of establishment at the mouth of Houay Vangmoun.
If this occurred it would increase many human uses, in particular hunting, in the least heavily used
and probably most important area for wildlife in PXT, the Houay Vangmoun and Houay Xiangla
catchments.
A track leading to Ban Khamteu is in the process of being upgraded to a road. If this was
permitted it would greatly increase access and many human uses, especially hunting, in the
32

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
southern part of the reserve, including the northern margins of the middle Houay Phalaphang
catchment, another area of high importance.
A summary of the relative importance of the major catchments of PXT can be found in Table 1 of
the Executive Summary. In Section 5.2 the conclusions above synthesised to identify the key
areas for managment action to maintain and increase the populations of the most significant Key
species in PXT.
5.2 Key areas areas for protection of Key wildlife species within PXT
Key areas, which can be considered as potential core areas to develop during future management
of the reserve, were identified on the basis of
• confirmed presence of Key wildlife species, especially those with populations of global or
national significance in PXT, in combination with reliable reports from interviews with
hunters
• presence of areas of habitat in good condition with relatively low levels of human use
They have been delineated, where possible, to form natural and recognisable units, such as stream
catchments. They are shown on Figure 11 and listed below. The list does not exclude other areas
where no information was gathered, nor is it certain that core areas can be established in all of
them, since considerations other than value for wildlife are also relevant.
The rationale for the selection of each core area is given below. The number of confirmed records
of high priority Key species in these areas is not high, and further fieldwork may be required to
gather sufficient evidence to support restrictions on human activity in these areas.
No sizable areas of dry dipterocarp forest were found meriting special protection, although small
areas occur in most of the core areas proposed below. The Houay Dua catchment, despite the
presence of elephants, was felt to be too heavily used by people to offer good conservation
prospects for hunting-sensitive species.
The southern upper headwaters of the Houay Louang form the largest tract of hilly semi-evergreen
forest in the reserve and were not surveyed at all. They are expected to experience fairly high
levels of hunting due to their proximity to so many villages outside the reserve, but in the longer
term it may be appropriate to expand the Houay Phalaphang-Houay Talo core area to include this
area too.
Area A (Highest priority) Houay Vangmoun and Houay Xiangla catchments, including
Bong Itao
This is probably the least heavily used sector of the reserve, since it is bordered by relatively few
villages to the north and none along the Mekong. There is a threat of greatly increased human use
if temporary dwellings at the mouth of Houay Vangmoun become permanent. Green Peafowl, a
species of big cat (probably Leopard) and one or two species of wild cattle are present in moderate
numbers. Rocky savannas on a series of low hills are surrounded by logged semi-evergreen forest
of moderate quality, dotted with many small grassy glades, providing good grazing for the wild
cattle. The main users are the people of Ban Nadou and Ban Nondinxay. Smaller catchments to
the east and west are also uninhabited but their importance has not been determined. Further
surveys would be worthwhile.
Bong Itao salt-lick occurs within a few kilometres of Ban Nadou, probably in the catchment of a
stream draining northwards. It is reportedly used by wild cattle from this sector but is heavily
hunted. The lick should be visited and accurately located, and hunting strictly prohibited.
Area B (Very high priority) Houay Kok and Houay Lan headwaters
The main concentration of Green Peafowl in PXT was located here, and the only one numbering
more than two calling males. It is within two kilometres of a village. The main calling area in
mid-March was on Phou Long, east of Houay Kok, but one male was on another mountain west of
Houay Kok and at other seasons birds reportedly also range south of Houay Lan. One local man
33

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
stated that there were rules preventing tree-felling in the Houay Kok valley because of its value to
fish during the rains - this sympathy to conservation may improve the prospects of protecting the
peafowl.
Area C (Moderate priority) Houay Phalaphang and Houay Talo catchments
The remotest area in the southern half of the reserve is the middle Houay Phalaphang valley near
Dan Louang and Dan Ngou Luam. Green Peafowl, wild cattle, a single party of gibbons, big cats
(probably Leopard) and probably also Dhole were recorded. The habitat mosaic here also includes
part of the Houay Talo catchment.
Three groups of table mountains (Phou Ngou/Sati, Phou Alang, Phou Sabao massif) surround this
area and were confirmed to retain populations of gibbons and macaques. Douc Langurs were
reported from all three. The mountain tops support the best semi-evergreen forest encountered in
the reserve.
The lower and upper reaches of the valley were found to be more heavily used and seemed to
support relatively little wildlife (based on brief visits and reports) but would constitute valuable
habitat if protected.
Area D (Lower priority) Islands in the Mekong downstream of Ban Donkoum
Small Pratincole occurs in low numbers and has perhaps been reduced by excessive disturbance.
It may be at risk of extinction in the reserve. This section of the river includes some rocky islands
where the pratincoles were seen resting by day, and may also be used for nesting. Human
disturbance could perhaps be prevented by a seasonal ban on landing on selected islands. A
survey is required first to identify the most important islands and the nesting season. River
Lapwing might also benefit from a reduction in disturbance.
Area E (Lower priority) Houay Xan valley.
The Houay Xan supported a relatively rich selection of hill forest birds, including the only Coralbilled
Ground-Cuckoos found in the reserve. The steep slopes and lack of paths may provide
some protection to hunting-sensitive birds and mammals - macaques were reported (but not
gibbons or Douc Langurs). Two male Green Peafowl were found in a southern tributary valley.
North of Houay Xan there is an unstudied area without human occupants running north to Houay
Xiangla. It may be possible to link area E with area A (above) in the future.
34

PART 6: TRAINING
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
A subsidiary aim of the survey was to provide the counterparts with training in techniques which
will be useful to them in their work patrolling the reserve. One of their responsibilities will be to
record important wildlife species in the course of patrols. Some may also be assigned to more
specialised wildlife survey work in due course, for example active monitoring of particular
species.
Although all of the counterparts showed some basic knowledge of wildlife, i.e. recognition of
mammal/bird families, only one of the four showed particular interest in actively observing
wildlife in the field. Time constraints, the lack of a fluent Lao-English translator and the low
levels of bird and mammal activity further reduced the opportunities for gaining direct experience
of the species of interest. However staff were encouraged to use the available field guides to birds
and were assisted in this respect where possible. The following aspects were discussed and where
possible, demonstrated:
- Map use. Use and interpretation of the 1:100 000 topographic maps and locating the trails
walked. Distinction between the grid numbers and the numbers indicating latitude and longitude.
Use of the latter in interpreting GPS (Global Positioning System) data gathered during the survey.
- Note-taking. Staff were encouraged to take written notes of trail details, mammal evidence and
bird species encountered (using the species numbers from Lekagul and Round (1991)). The
necessity for detailed wildlife descriptions for accurate identification was stressed.
- Key species. Field staff were introduced to the idea of rare and threatened species which are
sought during surveys. A list in English of the likely Key mammal and bird species in PXT was
given to each counterpart and they were helped to add the Lao or Thai names, and to crossreference
the bird list to the species numbers in Lekagul and Round (1991). At intervals the
records of Key species accumulated during the survey were discussed.
- Caution in identification. The need for caution in identification of sightings or reports from
villagers was repeatedly stressed, due to the great number of similar species, and the uncertainties
involved in interpreting bird and animal signs.
- Binocular use. The basics of using and caring for binoculars were mentioned whenever we
noticed a problem.
- Field guides. The basics of using a field guide (The birds of Thailand Lekagul and Round
1991) were shown by demonstrating, including the species numbers and the pictorial key to
families. The text was of limited value because the reserve staff do not read English, but some
important points were translated and discussed where possible. Identification of small birds in
open habitats was easiest to discuss, but this was not pursued at the expense of other fieldwork
because such species are almost entirely of low conservation interest and are of secondary
importance both during the survey and for the patrolling staff in the future.
- Green Peafowl surveys. A great deal of time was spent seeking this species. First an
introduction was given to the counterparts explaining, with the aid of maps, the global distribution
of Green and Blue Peafowl, the evidence for a severe decline of Green Peafowl both globally and
in Laos and the current known distribution in Laos (indicating the many places where information
is still poor). This enabled the counterparts to understand why Green Peafowl was a priority
species and why the PXT population was significant. The seasonality of calling, breeding and
moult was discussed and it was explained how in January to March most males should be calling,
allowing an estimate of population size despite the fact that females were very difficult to detect.
At most sites counterparts then accompanied observers on dawn and dusk listening sessions to
count this species. The importance of being in a good position (in spite of mosquitoes!) from
0500-0700 and/or 1730-1900 was impressed on them, and we compared our estimates of the
number of birds heard at each session. Coordinated counts from more than one listening point
were tried only at one site, and, since only one bird was heard, were not necessary.
- Gibbon surveys. It had been hoped to discuss the recording of gibbons in some detail, and to
impress on the counterparts the value of keeping daily note of where gibbons were and were not
heard and the time and length of calling periods. This was attempted in the first week, but since
so few gibbons were found it was not a very useful approach.
35

6.1 Summary of overall staff performance
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
The overall performance of staff throughout the survey period is summarised (below) in terms of
the major survey activities undertaken by staff during the survey, and the level of achievement
attained.
Map reading
Most staff were competent in all respects in the use of 1:100 000 topographic maps. Trails walked
were located and staff were able to distinguish between the grid numbers and the lines indicating
longitude and latitudes. Two members of the team spent two weeks independently mapping trails
in the southern sector of the reserve during the latter part of the survey period. Staff had the use
of the GPS explained to them and were competent in its use by the end of the survey period.
Note-taking
Although staff were encouraged to take written notes of trail details, mammal evidence and bird
species encountered, evidence of this activity being undertaken was scant. Certain staff recorded
bird and mammal species in written form, having consulted relevant reference material, but this
was by no means a regular occurrence, nor was it comprehensive. The necessity for detailed
wildlife descriptions for accurate identification was stressed, and although there was limited staff
comprehension of this issue there was not sufficient time to train staff in such techniques.
Key species recognition
Having established the significance of Key species occurrence in PXT, field staff were
encouraged to add the Lao or Thai names, and to cross-reference the bird list to the species
numbers in Lekagul and Round (1991). Mammals and to use Van Strien and Medway and Wells
000. At intervals the records of Key species accumulated during the survey were discussed.
Staff were able to add Lao and Thai names to the bird and mammal Key species, and in some
cases completed this task with little guidance or enthusiastically sought help with interpretation
problems. Staff were familiar with most of the larger mammal Key species and were keen to
locate footprints and other evidence of species presence. The use of the Van Strien mammal
footprint key in this respect was useful and staff appreciated the value of this document. Staff
would often refer to an illustrated boook about the mammals of Malaysia (000REF), particularly
when village interviews were being conducted. It is not thought that staff distinguished between
Key bird and mammal species when it came to recording species presence/absence in note form.
Staff were actively involved in peafowl survey work, which involved rigid time-keeping and notetaking
at what may by some be regarded as unsocial hours. In most cases initial enthusiasm for
this practice waned, although it is felt that at least one member of the staff team could in future be
relied upon to carry out such surveys independently.
Staff have some ability to recognise Key species in the future, in particular genus-level
identifications of the larger mammals, involving sightings, scats and prints, although they were
often less cautious in assigning identifications to old or indistinct signs than were the specialists.
Their bird recognition (other than Green Peafowl) is probably much less reliable, since the species
involved are less familiar and the number of species is greater. Recognition of the three important
riverine Key species could be learnt easily with a little more training. Only a few of the forestdwelling
Key bird species were encountered, often with only fleeting views or at times when the
counterparts were not present, so very little progress was made with this aspect.
36

RECOMMENDATIONS
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
The four main recommendations are:
• Reduction of destructive methods throughout the reserve. This should include the bannning of use of
modern fire arms for wildlife hunting, the use of poisons and explosives for catching fish and other
wildlife, the snaring of birds and mammals and the use of dogs in hunting practices throughout the
reserve.
• Establishment of effective use controls in selected core zones with participation of local communities.
Such use controls should incorporate the active participation of villagers.
• Associated rural development should serve to encourage abandonment or size reduction of villages
within the reserve boundaries. In-migration should be discouraged.
• Avoidance of opening up additional routes to vehicle access.
Reduce destructive methods throughout the reserve
Hunting of the larger Key species, especially Banteng, Gaur, Leopard, Tiger, gibbon, Douc
Langur and Green Peafowl, was identified as the most urgent problem for wildlife. Hunting of
these species mainly involves shootimg. Serow, Sambar, bears, macaques, Siamese Fireback,
Bar-bellied Pitta, Coral-billed Ground-Cuckoo and Green Imperial-Pigeon are probably also under
high hunting pressure from both shooting and snaring. The first priority for wildlife management
is to reduce hunting pressure in selected core areas. Action should include an education campaign
for nearby villages explaining the reasons why these species are protected by law. Both local
residents and soldiers should be targetted by such campaigns. Restrictions of access to these core
areas should be pursued.
The most acute threat within the Houay Vangmoun sector (Core area A, below) is probably
hunting of cattle at Bong Itao. This should be investigated and if possible, the offenders
prosecuted. Human access to the immediate vicinity of the lick should probably be stopped.
Establishment of effective use controls in selected core zones
The following are suggested as potential core areas (see Figure 10). A detailed rationale is given
in Section 5.2. They are listed in order of importance.
Core area A: Houay Vangmoun and Houay Xiangla catchments, including Bong Itao
Core area B: Houay Kok and Houay Lan headwaters
Core area C: Houay Phalaphang and Houay 000 catchments. Within this area, the most important
subsectors are Dan Louang - Dan Ngou Luam, Phou Alang, the Phou Ngou massif, Phou Alang
and the Phou Sabao massif.
Core area D: Islands in the Mekong downstream of Ban Donkoum
Core area E: Houay Xan valley.
The killing of big cats which raid cattle needs attention. A survey of which villages or remote
pastures are affected and the scale of the problem is required. It may then be possible to improve
levels of animal husbandry so that predation is reduced or a compensation scheme may be
introduced.
Locally logging is at such a high level that the forests are being seriously degraded (e.g., upper
Houay Dua, Houay Luat). Much of the demand is probably from expanding villages within the
reserve. Users need to be identified, commercial operations phased out and alternative,
sustainable sources of timber developed for village use. The Houay Dua valley may be a suitable
area to develop sustainable sources of timber, since it is already experiencing high use associated
with the good road access.
37

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
The extent of coffee plantations, dry and wet rice cultivation all seem quite limited. They should
be stabilised if possible at their current extent. A survey of sites, extents and owners of the
various patches of cultivation is required, so that expansion can be detected and limited in the
future.
Cultivation in the southern headwaters of the Houay Phalaphang (Core area C) and the northern
headwaters of the Houay Dua brings people for long stays in otherwise quite remote sites and
should be discouraged.
Additional information is required on the following aspects of human use, which are common but
were not confirmed to be serious threats to the wildlife species studied. Data gathering exercises
will necessitate active villager involvement:
Pastures used by domestic cattle during the wet season need to be identified and mapped for each
village.
The owners of rights to yang oil extraction along the various rivers need to be identified, since
their income would be affected by restrictions on access to core areas.
A study is required to indicate whether high levels of fishing in the reserve are likely to be sustainable. This
requires the services of a fisheries specialist.
Abandonment or size reduction of villages
Associated rural development should serve to encourage abandonment or size reduction of villages within
the reserve boundaries. In-migration should be discouraged.
There is a risk that a new permanent village may become established at the mouth of Houay
Vangmoun (Core area A). This should be discouraged most strongly, since it would drastically
reduce the value of the most important potential core area. If this sector is developed as a core
area, the cultivation of cotton and tobacco along the banks of the Mekong by people from Ban
Nadou and Ban Nondinxay may need to be discouraged. It is probably a significant source of
income to people from those villages and some incentive will probably be required in exchange
for cessation.
Villages which could be targeted for abandonment are those closest to core areas, namely, Ban
Donkoum, Ban Khamteu, Ban Khantamkhae and possibly Ban Khauntoungxai.
Avoidance of opening up additional routes to vehicle access
The trail from Ban Xaimon to Ban Khamteu is apparently being upgraded, funded in part by the
residents of Ban Khamteu themselves. It does not pass through any of the proposed core areas,
but will facilitate access for hunting and logging, as has happened along the road to Ban
Kenggnaphut, and will speed access to the middle reaches of the Houay Phalaphang catchment
(Core area C) by people from outside PXT. Upgrading of this road should not be allowed.
Other Action
The trade in wildlife parts through Ban Mai to Thailand is a major threat to certain species both in
PXT and elsewhere in southern Laos. Investigation of the problem is required and improved
policing of the market there, where parts of animals protected by law are openly displayed.
Boundaries and links with other reserves
There is little prospect of extending the reserve, or of linking it with Xe Bang Nouan NBCA,
because cultivation and villages completely surround the boundary. The salt-lick at Bong Itao
38

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
should be located accurately and if necessary the reserve boundary extended to include it and a
zone of forest around it.
PXT is contiguous with Pha Taem Narional Park in Thailand. Cooperation on conservation
affecting the Mekong river is highly desirable if not essential
Priorities for future wildlife surveys
More detailed information on the numbers and distribution of the following species should be
gathered during future surveys, to allow monitoring of the success of protective measures and to
identify other potential measures: Wild cattle, big cats, Douc Langur, gibbon, Green Peafowl,
Small Pratincole, River Lapwing, Wire-tailed Swallow.
The last three species share a restricted and easily surveyed habitat (the Mekong mainstream) and
are relatively easy to identify. It may be possible for field staff to conduct a useful survey of this
group of birds with only limited additional training and without being accompanied by external
survey specialists. Surveys can be made methodically by boat.
Routine recording of large mammal and bird species is already included in the duties of patrolling
staff. Gibbons and peafowl lend themselves most to detection by non-specialists, and should be
given particular attention. Visits to areas known or reported to support peafowl should be made
periodically year-round, but the most important time is January-March when repeated counts of
calling males (ideally involving at least 2-3 nights spent at each locality each calling season)
should provide a reliable index of population size.
Accurate monitoring of cattle and big cats may require the employment of external specialists, but
careful recording of the locations and measurements of any fresh signs found by field staff would
be valuable.
Further searches by field staff, starting with interviews, are needed to identify any sites which still
support crocodiles. Reports to date have been fairly vague and may refer to historical presence.
39

REFERENCES
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Berkmüller, K., Sangthong Southammakoth and Vene Vongphet 1995. Protected area system
planning and management in Lao PDR. Status report to mid-1995. Vientiane: Lao-Swedish
Forestry Cooperation Programme.
Collar, N.J., Crosby, M. C and Stattersfield, A. J. 1994. Birds to Watch 2: the world checklist of
threatened birds. Cambridge, U.K.: BirdLife International.
Corbett, G.B. and Hill, J.E. 1992. The Mammals of the Indomalayan Region. Oxford, U.K.:
Natural History Museum and Oxford University Press
Duckworth, J. W, Timmins, R. J. and Evans, T. D. 1993. A wildlife and habitat survey of Xe Pian
Proposed Protected Area. Vientiane: unpublished report to the Lao-Swedish Forestry
Cooperation Programme.
Duckworth, J. W. and Timmins and R. J. in prep. The natural history and conservation of the
River Lapwing Vanellus duvaucelli in southern and central Laos, with special reference to the
effects of large hydropower projects.
Ernst, C. H. and Barbour, R. W. 1989. The turtles of the world. Smithsonian Institution Press,
Washington D.C. and London.
Evans, T. D. and Timmins, R. J. in press. The status of the Green Peafowl Pavo muticus in Laos.
Forktail.
Groombridge, B. 1994. The 1995 IUCN Red List of Threatened Animals. Cambridge, U.K.:
IUCN.
King, B.F., Woodcock, M. and Dickinson, E.C. 1975. A Field Guide to the Birds of South-East
Asia. London: Collins.
Lekagul, B and Round, P. 1991. A Guide to the Birds of Thailand. Bangkok: Saha Karn Bhaet.
Manivong, K. and Sandewall, M. 1992. Forest cover and land use in Lao PDR: the final report of
the nationwide reconnaissance survey. Vientiane: Lao-Swedish Forestry Co-operation
Programme.
Oriental Bird Club in prep. A Checklist of the Birds of Indochina.
Round, P.D. 1988 Resident Forest Birds in Thailand: their status and conservation. Cambridge
U.K.: ICBP Monograph 2.
Srikosamatara, S. And Sutheethorn, V. 1994. Wildlife conservation along the Thai-Lao border.
Nat.
Hist. Bull. Siam Soc. 42: 3-21.
Thewlis, R. J., Duckworth, J. W., Evans, T. D. and Timmins, R. J. in prep. A preliminary
assessment of the status and conservation of threatened birds in Laos.
Timmins, R. J. And Bleisch, W. V. 1995. A wildlife and habitat survey of Xe Bang Nouan
National Biodiversity Conservation Area. Vientiane: The Wildlife Conservation Society.
Timmins, R. J., Evans, T. D. And Duckworth, J.W. 1993. A wildlife and habitat survey of Dong
Hua Sao Proposed Protected Area. Vientiane: unpublished report to the Lao-Swedish Forestry
Cooperation Programme.
Uthai Treesucon and Round, P.D. 1990. Report on threatened birds in Thailand. Tigerpaper
July-Sept. 1990: 1-9.
40

ANNEX 1: MAPS AND PLACE NAMES
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
The following map sheets were used throughout the fieldwork:
RDP Lao Service Geographique d’Etat, 1:100,000 (1985-7): D-48-07, D-48-08, D-48-19, D-48-
20, D-48-31, D-48-32.
Topographic features shown were broadly accurate, including the boundaries of major land-cover
types. However, many villages have appeared in new locations or changed their names. Many of
the natural features on the maps are unnamed or have names differing from those in local usage.
Names used in the text are those in local use, related to the 1:100,000 topographic maps by Table
9 and Figure 2.
Table 9 Village and other locality names of the PXT area which differ from those on the
RDP Lao Service Geographique d'Etat, 1: 100 000 maps
Local Name Topographic Map Name Grid reference
(centre or river mouth)
Villages
Ban Tha or Ban Thakhanxomxua Ban Thakhanxomxua 455457
Ban Khamleusa not mapped 530440
Ban Phou Ka not mapped 515470
unnamed settlement not mapped 635400
Ban Kenggnaphut Ban Kenggnaphut (Ban Hang) 685305
Ban Hatxeno not mapped 684291
Ban Senpan not mapped 675250 (uncertain)
Ban Khantoungxai not mapped 665203
Ban Khantamkhae not mapped 649180
Ban Khamteu not mapped 645078
Ban Donkoum Ban Donkoum 615033
Ban Seula H Koum (B Hang) 535015
Ban Mai Ban Singsamphan 549953
Ban Latsua Ban Latsua (Nongmek) 670945 (uncertain)
Watercourses
Houay Khouang H. Khong/H. Ngoua 528440
Hong Lik not named 561448
Houay Sanan H. Sanan/H. Amon 590425
Houay Vangmoun H. Vangmouang/H. Vay 635395
Hong Bokham/Hong Kham not named 698338
Houay Va-Noy unnamed 702288 (from south)
Houay Va-Gnai unnamed 702288 (from east)
Houay Va unnamed 695296
uncertain Houay Va-Noy 703302
Phou Khai unnamed 668180
Phou Long unnamed 680180
Hong Tat unnamed 664120
Houay Lahit Houay Pong 650120 (from south)
uncertain Houay Lahit 648108
Other
Lat Foot unnamed 648470
Dan Hang unnamed 785350
Dan Louang Dan Ngou Luam 665015
Dan Ngou Luam unnamed 695018
41

ANNEX 2: TERMINOLOGY AND CONVENTIONS
2.1 Key Species
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Key Species are those of elevated conservation concern, as detailed by the following sources:
Birds:
Globally threatened and Globally near-threatened species are listed by Collar et al. (1994).
Regionally at risk species are those considered by Treesucon and Round (1990) to be 'At Risk in
Thailand'
National historical decline species are those for which a decline greater than the magnitude of
habitat loss is demonstrated by Thewlis et al. (in prep.). This source discusses the Lao status of
birds in all four of the above categories.
Mammals and reptiles
Globally threatened species are listed by Groombridge (1994).
Regionally at risk species are those which Salter (1993) lists as being of high conservation
concern which are not Globally threatened.
2.2 Nomenclature and Systematics
Bird nomenclature and systematics
Systematic order and nomenclature for birds follow Lekagul and Round (1991), with King et al.
(1975) used for species not found in Thailand. Note is also taken of revisions to species limits
discussed in Oriental Bird Club (in prep.).
Mammal nomenclature and systematics
Corbett and Hill (1992) is generally followed, with exceptions where noted.
Testudine nomenclature and systematics
Ernst and Barbour (1989) is followed throughout.
2.3 Altitudes
All altitudes are approximate, and are quoted to an accuracy of +/- 50 m.
2.4 Grid References
Locations are given as six-figure grid references read from the standard grid used on the 1: 100
000 maps detailed above. Eastings (3 digits) proceed northings (3 digits).
ANNEX 3: METHODOLOGY
3.1 Limitations
1. Travel between sites often took considerable time as a result of the necessity of organising boat
travel along the Mekong between sites, limited by the number and availability of boats at any
given village.
2. Little nocturnal work was conducted, to allow sufficient time for diurnal work. The reserve
offers good opportunities for nocturnal work, with several good trails in remote areas.
3. Two evenings of peafowl surveillance were stopped due to heavy rain.
4. The survey was brief in relation to the size of the reserve and only a small proportion of each
of the habitats was visited. Among the more extensive parts of the reserve not covered at all were:
• the south-western lobe , west of Phou Houaxang
• the upper headwaters of Houay Louang and Houay Phalaphang (though trails were
mapped in this area, and some interviews carried out by counterparts)
• the rocky savannas between Houay Lan and Houay Pong-Noy
42

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
• the southern headwaters of Houay Dua, including the Phou Kham-Gnai/Phou Lon
massif
• the Houay Xiangla and upper Houay Xan catchments
• the Bong Itao area
• areas west of Houay Khouang
• the eastern margin of the reserve along its whole length
5. The weather during most of March 1996 was exceedingly hot, such that bird and mammal
activity was very low, between approximately 0900 and 1700 and conditions were very physically
demanding for the survey team. This was particularly true in deciduous habitats when it was
almost impossible to conduct useful observational work through the heat of the day.
3.2 Habitat Survey
3.2.1 Habitat evaluation
Habitat was surveyed primarily as a framework for assessing wildlife status and human
disturbance. The major natural vegetation types were identified and categorised by degree of
degradation and fragmentation. Photographs were taken of more distinct habitats. Non-forest
habitats included islands and bank side habitat along the Mekong and a mosaic of secondary
growth and agriculture with low conservation significance. No detailed classification of nonforest
habitats was attempted.
Habitat areas were estimated from Figure 5 by the process of overlaying a grid (effective cell size
0.81 km 2 ) and counting the number of complete squares occupied by successive habitat blocks,
combining partially filled cells by ocular estimate. This method was repeated once, and the
estimates agreed so closely that no further replications were required. An average was taken,
multiplied by the cell size and each result rounded to the nearest 5 km 2 . The area of semievergreen
forest was obtained by subtraction from the total reserve area of 995 km 2 (Berkmüller et
al. 1995).
For the purposes of calculating the habitat areas in Table 2, the area along the road to Ban
Khantoungxai was notionally divided 50:50 between dry dipterocarp and mixed deciduous forest
since this was approximately the ratio observed when the team drove rapidly through the area on 5
March. Furthermore, four patches of deciduous forest along the escarpments at the boundaries of
the reserve were assigned to mixed deciduous forest.
For the purposes of calculating the habitat areas in Table 2, unvisited habitat patches were
assigned to rocky savanna mainly between Houay Sanan and Houay Dua, since extensive rocky
savannas were observed on some hills there and adjacent hills bear very similar landforms. The
area linking Houay Kok with Hong Tat, and some patches around the middle Houay Phalaphang
valley were also assigned to rocky savanna for the same reasons. Dry dipterocarp forest was
predicted to occur near Ban Thakhamxomxua, since this patch has similar map symbols and
topography to the nearby area of this habitat at Ban Phou Ka.
3.2.2 Human use
Considerable anecdotal information concerning use of PXT was collected by observation during
fieldwork and in discussion with local residents. There was no formal survey of human use;
interviews had already been conducted by DWFC staff in some local villages, and such work was
not appropriate to the current team members' expertise.
3.3 Bird Survey
3.3.1 Field observation
This was the chief method, with the emphasis on maximising encounters, especially of Key
Species. Observers moved singly along existing trails or sat where birds concentrated, e.g.
fruiting and flowering trees, areas with good understorey visibility and breaks in the canopy.
Effort was centred away from areas with heavy human disturbance but most habitats were
covered. Careful attention was paid to the altitudes of all important records.
43

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Areas where villagers reported Green Peafowl Pavo muticus to be present were visited in the
evenings between 1730 and 1900 and the morning between 0500 and 0700, to maximise the
chance of detecting this species’ characteristic call. Additionally, time was spent in these areas
during the day to establish further the status of the species. On occasional nights, observations
were extended into darkness to locate nocturnal species.
Remains found in the field and birds (dead or alive) carried by people or found in village houses
were examined. This did not add any species unrecorded by other means but did include the
following Key species: Siamese Fireback, Green Peafowl and Bar-bellied Pitta.
3.3.2 Sound recording
Tape-recorders were used to record vocalisations for identification. Reference tapes were
available in the field. As yet unidentified recordings may be identified in future. Some attempt
was made to draw birds to the observer using playback
3.3.3 Interviews
Information was sought concerning a small number of species or species groups (namely
pheasants, hornbills, vultures, storks and other large waterbirds) in interviews with local people.
Although hunters readily recognise showy groups such as hornbills and storks, species
identifications may not be reliable. A few such reports are discussed in the results.
3.4 Mammal Survey
3.4.1 Opportunistic observation of mammals
Diurnal mammals (principally squirrels, tree shrews and primates) were recorded opportunistically
during ornithological fieldwork. Tracks and signs were identified where possible, chiefly
footprints. However, because many genera are polytypic (particularly those of conservation
interest, e.g. Bos, Panthera, Ursus, Cervus) few prints are unequivocably identifiable to species.
Reports of primates, notably Gibbons and Douc Langurs were followed up where possible with
potentially suitable habitat visited to assess status. A number of animal scats were collected to
verify identification.
3.4.2 Timed nocturnal walks
This method was used to sample nocturnal communities. Animals were detected mainly by the
reflection of their eyes in the light of a headtorch, by sighting faint shapes in the torch beam, by
their vocalisations and by the sound of their movements. A powerful spotlight allowed
identification. Few walks were attempted.
3.4.3 Interviews
Interviews with local people were undertaken (see below) to gather information on elusive and
scarce species. Confirmation was sought by field visits or examination of trophies wherever
possible.
3.5 Reptiles
From previous experience it was known that turtles and crocodiles are subjected to heavy
exploitation, yet very little is known about their status. An incidental aim was to identify species
present and assess their status. Turtles are particularly difficult to observe in the field, mainly
because they are inconspicuous and easily overlooked. Aquatic turtles in particular are very shy.
Most information was gained from villages by questioning inhabitants (see below) and asking to
see remains, principally carapaces and plastrons, a number of which were obtained for
identification and future reference. The number of types, a description of each type, the preferred
habitat at each season, locations and other information on ecology and behaviour were sought (a
synthesis of data from the IUCN/WCS/PAWM surveys will be published at a later stage).
3.6 Village Interviews
Informal interviews were conducted by TE and one or more counterparts with inhabitants of most
villages visited. The interview technique was a flexible one aimed at gathering information
44

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
informally, rather than a structured interview. Time constraints meant that informants were
generally asked only about the highest priority species. In some cases pictures of wildlife were
presented to villagers to aid identification and to stimulate interest and discussion. This was
followed by questions concerning the presence/absence and relative abundance of species along
with the locations of sightings. The aim was to gather data on wildlife status and distribution and
on local human interaction with species. Status information was sought particularly on those
species which are hard to confirm or assess by the methods outlined in Sections 3.3 to 3.4.
Species for which information was sought were chosen according to the ability of local people to
identify them positively. This ruled out many small species such as small cats, civets, most
rodents, bats and small birds. Informants (preferably people who regularly use the forest) were
asked about the presence of broad groups of species such as deer, cats or pheasants, how many
species they thought were present and a detailed description of each (especially in the case of
closely similar species). Local names were gathered. Results are discussed under the relevant
sections (4.1 for birds and 4.2 for mammals).
45

ANNEX 4: BIRD SPECIES RECORDED DURING THE SURVEY
4.1 Bird status
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Bird status was assessed subjectively using the following criteria:
• overall encounter frequency (the number of records): this baseline is considered in the light of
the following factors, to assess how the encounter rate reflects the species's abundance.
• shyness
• activity level
• area of detection, depending on habitat density
• main vegetation storey inhabited
• aerial species are hard to record in dense forest
• calling frequency and seasonality
• distinctiveness of calls
• volume of call
• whether common calls of the species are known
• flocking behaviour
• carrying capacity for the bird of its chosen habitat
• seasonality of occurrence
During recent surveys elsewhere in Laos the abundance of each bird species in each habitat was
assessed subjectively on a three-point scale whereby the number of records was assessed in the
light of various features of detectability in order to arrive at the bird’s true abundance. The three
bands of abundance can be loosely defined as follows, for a medium-sized bird of average
detectability:
Common: seen daily, often in large numbers, in favoured habitat
Frequent: seen on most days favoured habitat is visited, but not usually in large numbers
Occasional: seen only occasionally, on fewer than half the days
Since individual sites in PXT were visited only briefly, the lower two abundance categories could
not be separated and were pooled as ‘Present’, a category which also includes species which were
confirmed to occur but whose abundance could not be estimated.
46

Table 10 Status of bird species recorded in PXT (overleaf)
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
The following species list follows the taxonomic order used by Lekagul and Round (1991).
Scientific names can be found in that text, except where indicated in the table. Rows for
unidentified members of a genus exclude records identified to species.
Key
C = Common (recorded daily, sometimes repeated records)
P = Present, probably not common or abundance not assessed
rem = Identified only by remains in this sector
Provisional records are marked [ ].
All columns represent the dominant habitat in a surveyed area of habitat mosaic. Where a species
seemed to be associated with patches of a rare part of the mosaic, rather than that listed in the
column title this is denoted by another habitat code.
Sites
Phal = Middle Houay Phalaphang catchment
Kok = Houay Kok headwaters
Bokham = Hong Bokham headwaters
Sanan catchments
Vang = Houay Vangmoun catchment
Luat = Houay Luat/Houay Dua confluence
Dua = Houay Dua valley
Kouang/Sanan = Houay Kouang/Houay
Habitats
DDF = Dry dipterocarp forest RS = Rocky savanna with patches of mixed deciduous and
other forest types
MDF = Mixed deciduous forest SEF = Semi-evergreen forest
The Mekong column includes the river, adjacent rocky and sedimentary features, bank vegetation
and heavily degraded habitats fringing villages.
Notes:
(1) The first identifiable Chinese Pond-Heron in breeding plumage was seen on 18 March.
(2) All Green-Pigeon calls heard were suspected to be Thick-billed, but the calls of Pompadour Pigeon were not known.
(3) Megalaima lagrandieri
(4) Chrysocolaptes lucidus/Dinopium javanense
(5) Picus rabieri
(6) Pitta soror/nipalensis
(7) One morph was commonly seen, with a moderately high density of neat streaking on the underside. Identification will
await examination of museum specimens.
(8) Migrant forms, Anthus richardi ssp., excluding Paddyfield Pipit
(9) Resident form Anthus (richardi) rufulus.
(10) The race Pericrocotus (roseus) cantonensis, treated in the text as a full species.
(11) It is not known whether the ‘kleep’ calls of this species are diagnostic, but they are thought to be.
(12) Macronous kelleyi
(13) Stachyris ruficeps/rufifrons (including ambigua).
(14) All laughingthrushes heard were suspected to be White-crested.
(15) Orange-bellied birds of the race philippensis were seen at Dan Ngou Luam, Dan Louang and along the Mekong
mainstream. Non-orange males were recorded more widely.
(16) Yellow-billed birds were widely noted. Black-billed birds were seen occasionally along the Mekong mainstream.
47

4.2 Key bird species accounts
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Grey Heron Ardea cinerea (Regionally at risk)
Houay Xan valley: an unidentified Ardea sp., probably this species, was seen briefly on the
morning of 28 March flying high over the valley, heading west.
Mekong mainstream: six were seen together south of Ban Khantoungxai on the morning of 30
March, apparently leaving a roost tree.
This bird may only be a passage migrant to PXT.
Siamese Fireback Lophura diardi (Globally threatened)
Houay Phalaphang catchment: a complete rump and tail feathers were seen at a house in Ban
Donkoum. Plucked feathers were found at an old campsite on Dan Ngou Luam. There were three
confirmed sightings in semi-evergreen forest around the middle reaches of the Houay Phalaphang
in the space of a few days, suggesting high densities.
Houay Dua catchment: one seen and two other parties of Lophura sp. (this species or the less
likely Silver Pheasant L. nycthemera) heard along H. Luat
Houay Kouang/Houay Sanan catchments: shed feathers of this species were found near Houay
Sanan.
The species was widely reported and appears to be at least locally common. The total population
of the reserve is probably moderately high, since there is a great extent of semi-evergreen forest
on gentle slopes at suitable altitudes.
Green Peafowl Pavo muticus (Globally threatened)
Houay Phalaphang catchment: People in Ban Donkoum reported peafowl from Dan Louang and
Dan Ngou Luam. Train feathers in Ban Donkoum were said to have been shed naturally on Dan
Louang. None were heard on Dan Ngou Luam despite several mornings and evenings at various
listening posts covering several square kilometres of suitable habitat. One was heard south of the
river on 11 March, in an area of rocky savanna with strips of semi-evergreen forest. Counterparts
reported seeing a male and female here next day. Another heard same morning near Dan Louang,
a large rocky savanna surrounded by semi-evergreen forest.
Hong Tat catchment: villagers from Ban Kamteu reported small numbers here. Two nights were
spent at the site and one male was heard repeatedly. The neighbouring Houay Lahit valley was
also reported to support the species and there may be additional individuals there.
Houay Kok catchment: the largest concentration of peafowl found was in this area. People from
Ban Kamteu, Ban Khantoungxai and Ban Khantamkhae reported peafowl here (referring to the
area as 'Houay Lan'). No water remained in the waterholes in the Houay Lan itself and guides
indicated that peafowl were expected to have moved to remaining water sources in the nearby
Houay Kok catchment, which was the area surveyed. A dusk and dawn count from Phou Khai on
the west side of the valley indicated at least 4 calling males, one on Phou Khai and three on Phou
Long on the east side of the valley. The following evening and morning were spent on Phou
Long, the east side of the valley, and at least seven males were heard. Again, one was on Phou
Khai and the remainder on Phou Long. One male was seen. Two types of dropping, attributed by
the guides to the male and female, were both very numerous. Examples were taken for
confirmation. The steep valley sides support semi-evergreen forest with some mixed deciduous
forest in the valley bottom and extensive rocky savanna on the ridge tops. The area is all within 2
km of Ban Khantamkhae. The guides reported that peafowl were scarce or absent over the great
extent of rocky savanna stretching south to the Hong Tat site.
Houay Xan catchment: two males were heard at Hong Bokham calling from sites a few hundred
metres apart on one evening and the following morning. No birds were heard from two other
listening points in the vicinity of the stream. Birds were calling from rocky savanna close to semievergreen
forest.
Houay Vangmoun catchment: one evening and morning count were conducted at a site called Lat
Foot, a tract of rocky savanna on Phou Siangthong with semi-evergreen forest in the surrounding
valleys. One male was heard. A few male-type droppings and one female-type dropping were
found, but heavy rain may have washed others away.
48

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
See Figure 7. Peafowl were also reported from Phou Din in the Houay Xiangla catchment (at a
site called Hong Sai) and Phou Daocheng in the Houay Xan catchment (the latter by a man who
had not been there for at least two years). A minimum of 13 calling males were detected in PXT
(seven of them around Houay Kok) and the total population is almost certainly somewhat higher,
since much suitable habitat occurs which could not be visited, especially between Houay Xan and
Houay Xiangla and south of Houay Kok. The ratio of females to calling males was reported to be
high (3:1 or more) by hunters, but even a conservative estimate of 1:1 suggests a population in
excess of thirty birds.
This species has declined very severely in Laos and many of the remaining populations will
probably become extinct over the next ten years (Evans and Timmins in press). PXT supports one
of the largest populations in Laos. The only other sites confirmed to have significant populations
are Phou Khao Khouay NBCA (where up to 6 males have been counted), Xe Pian NBCA (where
at least 5 males have been heard and the population is though to be larger). There are probably
also important populations in Bolovens Southwest Proposed Protected Area and elsewhere in
Attapu province, but none have been surveyed. Several other sites, including Dong Hua Sao
NBCA, are thought to support very small numbers.
River Lapwing Vanellus duvaucelli (National historical decline)
Mekong mainstream: small numbers were recorded along the shores of the river (Table 6). The
largest group size was four.
Most were associated with the main stretches of rocky outcrops and rapids. They presumably feed
along the small sandy beaches and bars which are deposited amongst the rocks, since sand bars are
the favoured habitat in other areas of Laos surveyed.
Summing maximum counts for each section of river gives a total of 21 individuals. This is
probably an underestimate since incubating birds and some others would have been overlooked
amongst the jumbled rocks. There was thought to be only limited movement up and down the
river since at many locations birds were found repeatedly. Furthermore, the survey coincided with
the breeding season of this species (Duckworth and Timmins in prep.) and many birds were
presumed to be holding territory. Taking single individuals or groups of two to represent breeding
pairs but treating groups of three or more as non-breeding birds suggests a minimum population of
around 11 breeding pairs and 7 non-breeders (or failed breeders). If all individuals seen
represented the off-duty mates of birds incubating eggs the maximum estimate would be 21 pairs.
The rocky areas around Ban Thakhanxomxua were not surveyed and are likely to support one or
more additional breeding pairs.
Table 6 Records of River Lapwing in PXT
Section 6 12 13 18 19 21 25 26 27 29 30 Max.
B. Khamleusa-Houay Vangmoun - 1 - 1
Houay Vangmoun to Houay Xan 2 - 2
Houay Xan to B. Kenggnaphut - - -
B. Kenggnaphut-B. Hatxeno 2 1 2
B. Hatxeno to B. Senphan 2.1.1 - 4
B. Senphan to B. Khantoungxai 3 1.4 3 5
B. Khantoungxai to B. Khantamkhae 1 1.1 - - - 2
B. Khantamkhae to rapids above B. Khamteu - - - -
Rapids above B. Khamteu - - - -
B. Khamteu to B. Donkoum 1 1 1 1
B. Donkoum to B. Seula - 1.3 2 4
Downstream of B. Seula - - - -
Total 21
Columns represent dates in March 1996. Different groups within a section are separated by dots.
B. = Ban
Small Pratincole Glareola lactea (Regionally at risk)
Mekong mainstream: there were repeated records of groups of 1-5 along the stretch between Ban
Donkoum and Ban Seula (Figure 7). They were either loafing in the heat of the day on rocky
49

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
islands or hawking for food in the evening. It is possible only five individuals were present in the
reserve, but a few seem likely to have been overlooked.
Much larger numbers (50 or more) have been found at four sites in Laos (Khonphapheng Falls, Xe
Pian and Nam Kading NBCAs and Vientiane), with small numbers at a few other sites (Thewlis et
al. in prep.). PXT appears suitable for a much larger population than was detected and high levels
of human activity may have reduced their numbers. If this is the case, the remaining few
individuals may also soon be lost. The favoured islands were between grid lines 580 and 600
East. It may be necessary to protect some from disturbance to benefit this species. Further
investigation is required.
Green Imperial Pigeon Ducula aenea (Regionally at risk)
Houay Xan catchment: one was seen flying across the Houay Xan valley on the morning of 28
March.
Phou Alang: calls, provisionally identified, were heard on 15 and 16 March.
Houay Dua catchment: calls, provisionally identified, were heard near the mouth of Houay Saving
on 21 March and 23 March.
See Figure 7. All records were associated with semi-evergreen forest. It has declined greatly in
both Thailand and Laos, presumably due to hunting and clearance in its preferred habitat of
lowland riverine forest (Round 1988, Thewlis et al. in prep.). The small number of records at
PXT was typical of all sites where this species has been found in Laos except Xe Pian NBCA
(Thewlis et al. in prep.), suggesting that the population is not healthy and requires active
protection from hunting.
Coral-billed Ground-Cuckoo Carpococcyx renauldi (Globally near-threatened)
Houay Xan catchment: one was heard calling on 27 March from an area of mixed deciduous/semievergreen
forest mosaic in a depression near Hong Bokham. Another was heard in the Houay
Xan valley on 27 March from a ridge of semi-evergreen forest.
See Figure 7. March is thought to be a period of high calling activity for this species in Laos
(Thewlis et al. in prep.), so the small number of records is probably a reliable indicator of a small,
localised population.
[Javan Frogmouth Batrachostomus javensis (Regionally at risk)
Houay Phalaphang catchment: one was heard from semi-evergreen forest by the middle reaches of
the river.
Houay Louang catchment: several heard each night during nocturnal surveys in semi-evergreen
and mixed deciduous forest.
Houay Dua catchment: heard once each in semi-evergreen and mixed deciduous forest.
According to recent taxonomic revision this bird is more correctly called Blyth's Frogmouth
Batrachostomus affinis (Oriental Bird Club in prep.). All identifications were provisional, based
on calls which are not confirmed to be given solely by this species. There are as yet no confirmed
records from anywhere in Indochina, but these calls have been heard commonly in a great many
areas of Laos surveyed in recent years, including quite heavily degraded forest (Thewlis et al. in
prep.), and on this basis the species is not thought to be under significant threat, either in Laos as a
whole or in PXT.]
Red-collared Woodpecker Picus rabieri (Globally threatened)
Phou Alang: one male was seen in semi-evergreen forest on the upper slopes of Phou Alang
(Figure 7), in a wooded valley with a flowing steam surrounded by tree ferns. It was feeding on a
trunk in the mid-storey.
This species is generally much rarer in logged rather than unlogged forest in Laos (Thewlis et al.
in prep.). This probably explains the low number of records in PXT. Forest on Phou Alang was
relatively little logged and the species may now be restricted in PXT to this mountain and the few
other remaining pockets of good quality forest on flat mountain tops and the bottoms of steepsided
valleys. It is vulnerable to logging of these areas.
50

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Black-headed Woodpecker Picus erythropygius (Regionally at risk)
Houay Phalaphang catchment: one was seen in tall mature mixed deciduous forest north of the
river. One was seen in dry dipterocarp south of the river. Three parties of two were seen in two
hours in dry dipterocarp forest near Ban Donkoum.
Houay Louang catchment: singles were seen in dry dipterocarp forest near Ban Kamteu and near
Houay Luat.
Houay Dua catchment: two singles were seen in dry dipterocarp forest near Ban Hatxeno.
Houay Kouang-Houay Sanan catchments: one was seen in dry dipterocarp forest near Ban Phou
Ka.
This species was almost restricted to dry dipterocarp forest and was absent from rocky savanna
(unlike most other species using dry dipterocarp forest). It was recorded every few hours during
fieldwork in this habitat, from all the larger patches of the habitat where surveys were conducted.
The population is probably not of national significance since many larger areas of suitable habitat
occur elsewhere in Laos. Progressive degradation of the dry dipterocarp forests by logging, fire
and overgrazing may threaten this species in the long term.
Bar-bellied Pitta Pitta ellioti (Globally near-threatened)
Probably fairly common in all semi-evergreen forest areas of the reserve, especially on lower,
flatter terrain. Calls were heard almost daily in this habitat. Possibly also present in some taller
mixed deciduous forest stands. There were records, (mainly of calling birds) from the Houay
Phalaphang, Houay Dua, Houay Louang, Houay Kouang, Houay Vangmoun and Houay Xan
catchments. None were located during four days on Phou Alang.
[Blue-rumped/Blue-naped Pitta Pitta soror/nipalensis (both Globally near-threatened)
Houay Phalaphang catchment: one was seen in a belt of semi-evergreen forest amongst rocky
savanna, but could not be identified to species.
Blue-rumped Pitta is the more likely to occur, but the distribution of Blue-naped Pitta is not yet
fully known. Blue-rumped is believed to occupy similar habitats to Bar-bellied Pitta, but lacks
distinctive calls and is much harder to survey (Thewlis et al. in prep.).]
Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii (Regionally at risk)
Mekong mainstream: common along stretches where extensive rocky shelves constricted the flow
of the river but much scarcer where earth or rocky banks lined wider reaches of the river. Table 7
summarises the records.
Many birds appeared to be in clearly separated groups of 1-4 birds, with 200 m or more between
them, suggesting partially or completely territorial breeding pairs. These groups were used as the
basic unit for a preliminary estimate of population size. The last week of the survey seemed to
coincide with the emergence of fledged young as several groups of them were seen during 25-30
March, but none earlier.
Counts were not comprehensive, since they were conducted from fairly fast moving boats and
along wider stretches of the river which only allowed one bank to be searched with binoculars.
Fortunately the species spends a great deal or time in flight, largely avoiding the wider stretches of
river where counts were most difficult and appeared to be largely restricted to the riverbed, bars
and banks for feeding (seldom, if ever, ranging over adjacent forest areas). Since there must have
been young in the nest for much of the survey period, few birds were expected to be incubating.
Therefore a high proportion of individuals were thought to have been detected, often with
consistent counts on successive journeys along the same stretch of river. Counts on the last
journey, on 30 March were by far the highest and were clearly boosted by the appearance of many
juveniles. However, the spacing of the records seems to suggest a higher number of 'territories'
than would have been estimated from an analysis of counts before that date. This is difficult to
account for. The sum of the maximum counts for the various sections of river was 80 birds, of
which at least 11, possibly more than 20, were juveniles. A preliminary estimate of 29-37
breeding pairs was made, based on the spacing of groups and individuals presumed to represent
breeding pairs. The area around Ban Thakhanxomxua was not visited but is likely to support
51

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
several more pairs, judging from the habitat shown on topographic maps. This is by far the largest
population found during recent surveys in Laos (Thewlis et al. in prep.), and also one of the few
not immediately threatened by hydro-electric projects.
Table 7 Records of Wire-tailed Swallow in PXT
Section 6 12 13 18 19 21 25 27 29 30 Max. Group
s
B. Khamleusa-Houay Vangmoun 1 2.1 3 2
Houay Vangmoun to Houay Xan 2j - 2j 1
Houay Xan to B. Kenggnaphut - - - -
B. Kenggnaphut-B. Hatxeno - - - -
B. Hatxeno to B. Senphan 1.2 - 3 2
B. Senphan to B. Khantoungxai ? 2.2.
- 7 4
2.1
B. Khantoungxai to
2 1 1 - 2 1
B. Khantamkhae
B. Khantamkhae to rapids above - 1 - 1 1
B. Khamteu
Rapids above B. Khamteu - 4 2.2+2j.2 6+2j 3
B. Khamteu to B. Donkoum 5.2.
2.4.2 5.3.3+3j.4j. 23+7j 7-10
2.1
1.1.1.1.7.1.
B. Donkoum to B. Seula 1.1. 3.1.1.
3.2.2.1.1.2. 22 6-11
1.1 2.2.2
1.1.5.3.1
B. Seula to B. Mai 1 1 - 1 1
Downstream of B. Mai 1 1 1
Total 69+11j 29-37
Columns represent dates in March 1996. Different groups within a section are separated by dots.
Birds which were certainly juveniles are indicated separately within a group by the letter j. ?
indicates no count was made.
B. = Ban
[Brown-rumped Minivet Pericrocotus (roseus) cantonensis (Globally near-threatened)
Houay Dua catchment: one was well seen in dry dipterocarp forest near Ban Hatxeno on 21
March, with a second, poorly seen bird nearby. This identification is provisional pending
examination of museum specimens.
This form is now considered a full species, but was treated as a race of Rosy Minivet P. roseus by
Lekagul and Round (1991). It occurs sparsely at all sites it has been found in Laos, but uses a
wide variety of forest types.]
Grey-faced Tit-Babbler Macronous kelleyi (Globally near-threatened)
Houay Phalaphang catchment: one was heard on 7 March in a belt of semi-evergreen forest along
a stream in dry dipterocarp forest near Ban Donkoum (Figure 7).
This is a very small number of records, and the population of the reserve must be low. Several
other sites in southern Laos have very much larger populations, with daily records of 5-20 birds
commonplace (Thewlis et al. in prep.).
Hill Myna Gracula religiosa (Regionally at risk)
Scarce in comparison with many other recently surveyed areas of Laos. There were less than 30
records, though they were present in all main catchments surveyed. The highest densities (with
the species being recorded daily, sometimes more than once) were noted in semi-evergreen forest
along the Houay Dua and Houay Louang. Semi-evergreen forest was preferred but there were a
few records from rocky savanna or mixed deciduous patches. A party of ten at Hong Bokham was
the only group of more than two seen.
52

ANNEX 5: MAMMAL SPECIES RECORDED DURING THE SURVEY
5.1 Status of mammals
Table 11 Mammal species recorded during the survey (overleaf)
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Order and scientific nomenclature follow Corbett and Hill (1992). As mammals are difficult to
detect, absence of a symbol should not be taken to suggest absence of a species from that habitat.
Identification of tracks followed van Strien (1983) and the personal experience of observers.
Identifications are confirmed unless the species name is in square brackets, in which case the
identification is provisional. Use of a classification other than that of Corbett and Hill (1992) may
result in a species changing from confirmed to provisional or vice-versa.
Key
Evidence: the best evidence for each sector is given, in square brackets if the identification is
provisional identifiable field records are given an abundance code: C = common or abundant
(equivalent to the C category for diurnal birds, Annex 4 and only used for diurnal mammals); P =
present, but not possible to assess abundance. S = signs ; d = remains in the field. Reports are
not shown. The only remains in villages were of Hodgson’s Crested Porcupine, Southern Serow
and Common Muntjac, but these could not be located by sector or habitat, so are also omitted
Sites
Phal = Middle Houay Phalaphang catchment
Luat = Houay Luat/Houay Dua confluence
Kok = Houay Kok headwaters
Dua = Houay Dua valley
Bokham = Hong Bokham headwaters
Kouang/Sanan = Houay Kouang and Houay Sanan catchments
Vang = Houay Vangmoun catchment
Habitats
DDF = Dry dipterocarp forest
RS = Rocky savanna with patches of mixed deciduous and other forest types
MDF = Mixed deciduous forest
SEF = Semi-evergreen forest
The Mekong column includes the river, adjacent rocky and sedimentary features, bank vegetation
and heavily degraded habitats fringing villages.
53

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
54

4.2 Key mammal species accounts
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Slow Loris Nycticebus pygmaeus (Regionally at risk)
Houay Dua catchment: one seen in semi-evergreen forest along the road to Ban Kenggnaphut.
Houay Louang catchment: commonly encountered in mixed deciduous forest and semi-evergreen
forest along the Houay Louang, where it usually occupied a tall bamboo in the understorey.
Nocturnal surveys were not conducted in any other sectors. The high density observed along a
major path by Houay Louang where hunting might be expected to be relatively severe suggests the
species is under little or no threat in PXT.
Pig-tailed Macaque Macaca nemestrina (Regionally at risk)
Phou Alang: there were records of a party of about ten individuals on the mountain top on all four
days it was surveyed. They may be associated with the spring found there.
Long-tailed Macaque Macaca fascicularis (Regionally at risk)
Houay Kouang/Houay Sanan catchments: one party of at least six was seen in semi-evergreen
forest 1 km from Ban Khamleusa.
[Stump-tailed Macaque Macaca arctiodes (Regionally at risk)
Reports from several sectors of the reserve suggested that this species was still present, especially
on the larger mountains.]
[Douc Langur Pygathrix nemaeus (Globally threatened)
A special effort was made to obtain reports of this species. Many people reported that it still
occurred, in particular on the massifs of Phou Sati, Phou Alang, Phou Sabao and Phou Kham-
Gnai. Only Phou Alang was well surveyed and none were located, although they could have been
overlooked if they kept to the very steep slopes of the mountain. Further surveys are required
concentrating on the least accessible areas of slope forest to determine the status of this species.
The population is expected to be quite small, given the intensity of human activity, the
vulnerability of Douc Langurs to hunting and the very poor numbers of gibbons found (see
below).]
Gibbon Hylobates sp. (Globally threatened)
Phou Alang: very distant gibbon calls were heard at 1140 on 7 March; these calls were so faint
that even vague directions were not possible to obtain.
Houay Phalaphang catchment: very distant calls were heard from an escarpment 2 km north of the
middle Houay Phalaphang valley, 0735-0755 on 9 March; they were calling from SW or SE of the
observer. Calls were also heard at 0829-0834 on 7 March 3-4 km to the south of Ban Donkoum
on the lower slopes of Phou Ngou. These latter were not duetting calls and may have been a lone
male. No other gibbon calls were heard despite extensive fieldwork in the middle stretches and a
five day trail-mapping survey conducted by two of the counterparts in the upper headwaters.
These records suggest an extremely small remnant population. Guides were also insistent that
gibbons could occasionally be heard on Phou Kham-Gnai, in the Houay Dua catchment, but in the
northern third of the reserve people confirmed that the species was absent. Figure 8 shows the
location of records and areas likely to be important for this species, and probably other primates in
PXT.
There were no sightings and calls were too faint to tape record. The taxon present is unknown,
but calls resembled one or other of the forms in the Black or Concolor Gibbon Hylobates
(Nomascus) complex, presumably either H. (concolor) gabriellae or H. (concolor) siki on the
basis of range.
[Dhole Cuon alpinus (Globally threatened)
Houay Phalaphang catchment: one clear fresh footprint on the bed of the middle Houay
Phalaphang (Figure 9) was provisionally identified as belonging to this species, since it was large
(9 cm long) but relatively narrow, unlike the typical smaller, wider prints of Lao domestic dogs.
55

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
This species was widely reported in small groups, but was nowhere considered common.]
Bears Ursus spp. (both Globally threatened)
Houay Louang catchment: one old set of claw marks on a tree trunk on the slope of Phou Chouang
were the only direct evidence, but there were few opportunities to detect such evidence due to lack
of large trees and the limited number of days observation conducted in semi-evergreen forest.
Local people report that there are two species of bear, presumably Sun Bear U. malayanus and
Asiatic Black Bear U. thibetanus.
[Small cats Felis spp. (Regionally at risk)
Medium-sized hair-rich droppings presumed to be from small cats were seen sparsely but widely
in all sectors, especially on bare rocky areas where they were most conspicuous.]
Larger cats Panthera/Pardofelis/Felis (Globally threatened or Regionally at risk)
Houay Khouang/Houay Sanan catchments: one large scat, 8.5 cm circumference, was found in a
rocky savanna area close to the lower Houay Sanan.
Houay Vangmoun catchment: one large scat, 8 cm circumference, was found in an open grassy
area near Houay Vangmoun.
Houay Dua catchment: a set of fresh prints, with a toe spread of 8 cm, were seen in sand on a busy
path between Houay Va-Noy and Houay Va-Gnai. Three scats were found in deciduous forest
patches to the east, with circumferences of 7, 8 and 11 cm. A set of claw marks with a span of 8
cm was found on a tree in semi-evergreen forest close to the mouth of Houay Saving.
Hong Tat catchment: three scats, each with a circumference of 8 cm, were seen in rocky savanna
between Phou Chouang and Houay Lahit.
Houay Phalaphang catchment: large scats with circumference of 8-8.5 cm were common (at least
30 seen, over a wide area) in rocky savanna at Dan Louang, Dan Ngou Luam and areas south of
the middle stretch of the river.
See Figure 9. People from all villages visited reported that big cats were quite numerous,
sometimes taking cattle. Both Leopard (seua dao) and Tiger (seua kong) were specified, the latter
apparently much scarcer and identified by its much larger prints (the size of a spread hand, rather
than a fist) or occasional sightings. No-one recognised photographs of Clouded Leopard
Pardofelis nebulosa or Asiatic Golden Cat Felis temmincki.
The prints and claw marks seen in the Houay Dua valley are appropriate in size for either Leopard
Panthera pardus (Regionally at risk) or Clouded Leopard (Globally threatened). Most of the scats
seen were also suspected to belong to one of these species, rather than Tiger Panthera tigris
(Globally threatened) which typically produces even larger scats and prints. The largest scat in the
Houay Dua valley may have come from a Tiger but there was no other direct evidence. Clouded
Leopards are thought to favour semi-evergreen forest, so seem unlikely to be the source of the
numerous scats in rocky savanna areas.
Judging from the combined, (albeit inconclusive) evidence, it seems likely that PXT supports a
nationally important population of Leopards and a few Tigers. Clouded Leopards conceivably
also occur, but there was no evidence. Further study would be valuable, directed at assessing the
species numbers, total population and the level of livestock predation.
Asian Elephant Elephas maximus (Globally threatened)
Houay Dua catchment: old footprints of one were seen in slender-bamboo grassland, about 3 km
east of Ban Hatxeno (Figure 10).
The headman of this village informed us that two animals are present in this area, apparently the
only ones known in PXT. Reports of Elephants visiting a salt-lick south of Ban Kham-I (Figure
10) may well refer to the same individuals, but this requires investigation. Dung and prints from a
working elephant were seen on Phou Siangthong, associated with some sawn planks. Our guide
indicated the animal was from Ban Phapho (Xe Pian NBCA).
Wild Cattle Bos spp. (Globally threatened)
56

Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Houay Vangmoun catchment: numerous fresh trails and dung from wild cattle were seen in this
area, both on the rocky savanna of Phou Siangthong and in the network of grassy clearings
amongst semi-evergreen forest in the valley bottom. The prints had all been made since torrential
rain two nights earlier, and were associated with freshly grazed grass, which was sprouting
vigorously in this area. One set of prints involved an adult with a smaller animal in association
and three other well separated areas were visited with fresh tracks of single animals so it is
conceivable as many as five animals were involved. All the larger prints were 10-12 cm wide and
a little longer, with the narrow, tapering shape typical of domestic cattle and Banteng Bos
javanicus rather than Gaur B. gaur or domestic water buffalo. Since there were clearly no
domestic cattle being pastured in this area, which is distant from the nearest village, they were
probably Banteng prints, and this was also the opinion of the guides. One set of large, wide,
rounded prints was found in the bed on the Houay Vangmoun and was suspected to be from Gaur.
Hong Tat catchment: one old set of large prints (approximately 13 cm wide and 14 cm long,
shaped like domestic cattle) was pointed out by guides amongst the old prints of domestic cattle
pastured here during the rains. They were suspected to be from Banteng which guides informed
us will associate with grazing herds of domestic cattle.
Houay Phalaphang catchment: old prints and dung were widely scattered in rocky savanna areas
north and south of the river, as well as one set crossing the riverbed. Prints were typically 10-12
cm wide and a little longer and, again, were suspected to be Banteng. The presence of associated
prints as small as 5 cm wide suggested the presence of younger animals. Most people questioned
said that domestic cattle were not pastured in this area, but one guide insisted that they were.
A salt-lick at Bong Itao (Figure 10) was reported to be used by Banteng during the wet season.
Seven were said to have been shot there in 1995. The small salt-lick near Houay Va was not
reported to be used by wild cattle, nor were areas in the Houay Bong and Houay Lan sector north
of Hong Tat. The records suggests two separate populations (Figure 10). The northern one is the
larger one, judging from reports and the evidence that several animals were active in just a part of
the suitable habitat. The Houay Xiangla and Houay Xan catchments were largely unsurveyed and
may support more animals. The village headman in Ban Khamteu believed that there were no
more than five wild cattle in the whole area of the Houay Louang and Houay Phalaphang
catchments, the southern population.
The identification of footprints is seldom certain, so these records have to be treated as
provisional, but it is clear that there are significant numbers of one or two species of wild cattle in
PXT. If they prove to be Banteng they will be markedly more significant. Only one other NBCA
surveyed so far in Laos (Xe Pian) was suspected to support a significant population of Banteng.
There were also reports of small herds in Xe Khampho Proposed Protected Area, but this has yet
to be investigated. Thus the population in PXT is of great national significance. It merits further
survey work and the highest priority for protective measures by reserve staff. The status of Gaur
in the reserve is less certain.
[Southern Serow Naemorhedus sumatrensis (Regionally at risk)
Hong Tat: numerous droppings, including some fresh ones with urine-dampened sand adjacent,
were seen in a belt of evergreen trees along a cliff in rocky savanna (Figure 10).
Suspected footprints were also seen on Phou Sabao-Gnai, in the Houay Louang sector. These
records cannot be separated from the less likely Chinese Goral N. caudatus, so remain
provisional.]
Finlayson's Squirrel Callosciurus finlaysoni (Regionally at risk)
This species was confirmed to occur in semi-evergreen forest throughout the reserve sometimes
commonly. There were also sparser records from other forest types, even the most open areas of
rocky savanna.
57

Table 12 Nocturnal mammal encounter frequencies
Species Houay Dua Houay Louang
Slow Loris 1 5
unidentified loris (probably Slow) 1
Giant Flying Squirrel sp. 3 (4)
small flying squirrel 1
Common Palm Civet 1
Unidentified small carnivore (seen) 1(2)
Total 3 (4) 10 (11)
Hours 4 8
Ease of survey: ground Moderate Good
Ease of survey: trees Good Good
Wildlife and habitat survey of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
Number of encounters given, with total number of individuals in brackets if different.
For scientific names, see Table 11.
Routes are shown on Figure 4.
58