The proposed Parc Regional de Belomotse - Frontier-publications ...

6.4.3 Breeding status
Many of the captured female T. furculus had swollen genitalia, indicating that the
species was in the breeding season. During a previous survey, in November 2001,
many of the captured females of both Triaenops species were pregnant. Most of the
other mammal species that occur in the surveyed areas also had a breeding season
towards the end of the dry season. This would mean that the births would coincide
with the onset of the wet season, which would ensure the provision of food for the
offspring.
6.4.4 Population density and conservation status
The survey showed exceptionally high densities of Triaenops rufus and T. furculus
within the cave system. Previous studies of these species have identified populations
roosting within caves or equivalent sites, often in mixed-species colonies with
Miniopterus, Myotis and Otomops species. These populations typically contain several
hundred individuals (Garbutt, 1999).
T. furculus is classified as vulnerable, with a decreasing population. T. rufus is data
deficient (IUCN, 2002). Considering the given status of these species, this survey has
identified important populations of both Triaenops species. The presence of
approximately 9,000 individuals of a vulnerable mammal species within a single site
warrants specific conservation attention. In conjunction with the exceptional numbers
of T. rufus and the suspected presence of Hipposideros commersoni, the site should be
classified as one of the most important known microchiroptera roost sites in southwest
Madagascar.
7. Diurnal lemur population study
7.1 Introduction
Preliminary biodiversity studies within the proposed Parc Regional de Belomotse
identified the presence of two species of diurnal lemur; Verreaux’s sifaka, Propithecus
verreauxi verreauxi, and the ring-tailed lemur, Lemur catta. Both species are classified
as vulnerable (IUCN, 2002). While there have been extensive studies of both species
across their ranges in west and south-west Madagascar, no previous studies had been
undertaken in the proposed park area. Whilst lemurs are not necessarily reliable
indicators of forest biodiversity (Ganzhorn 1999), their endemism and status as
Madagascar’s only primate species makes them an extremely important family to
monitor both for biodiversity and conservation management. In addition, they are
charismatic flagship species of importance for tourism, raising public awareness and
providing support to fund-raising.
A population distribution and density study was undertaken in order to ascertain the
range and approximate number of individuals of both species of diurnal lemur within
the surveyed areas. The study aimed to contribute both to conservation and tourism
development within the region, and to provide a basis for future monitoring.
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