An integrated analysis into the causes of ungulate mortality in the Wanda Mountains (Heilongjiang Province, China) and an evaluation of habitat quality

As part of our ungulate population protection program, the specific causes of ungulate mortality were examined and the effect of single habitat on habitat selection by ungulate analyzed. An integrated occurrence–mortality model for three ungulate species (wild boar Sus scrofa L., red deer Cervus elaphus L. and roe deer Capreolus capreolus Pallas) within the Wanda Mountains of Heilongjiang Province, China was then created. Results showed that steel cable snares and poison, used to kill ungulates, were the primary threats to survival of wild boar (40.07% poison, 27.79% cable snares), red deer (51.35% poison, 40.54% cable snares) and roe deer (29.31% poison, 56.90% cable snares). Furthermore, we found evidence that aspect, slope, elevation and forest type are important factors in determining ungulate habitat preference. The integrated occurrence–mortality model indicated that 46.39% of suitable habitat was associated with mortality risk. This model correctly classified 8.06% (297.49 km2) of the study area as unsuitable habitat, 5.43% (200.44 km2) as first attractive sink-like habitat, 32.76% (1209.85 km2) as second attractive sink-like habitat, 8.20% (302.77 km2) as third attractive sink-like habitat, and 8.91% (329.00 km2), 30.53% (1127.22 km2) and 6.11% (225.29 km2) as first, second and third source-like habitats, respectively. The results indicate that source-like habitats should be preserved to prevent habitat loss and degradation, while attractive sink-like habitats should be managed effectively to mitigate mortality risks. In particular, the various authorities need to be more proactive (increase patrolling, thereby providing employment, educational opportunities and increasing income) to reduce human-caused ungulate mortality.

► We examined the specific causes of human-caused ungulate mortality.
► We modeled an integrated occurrence–mortality model which related to habitat quality.
► Steel cable snares and poison were the primary threats to survival of three ungulate species.
► The model indicated that 46.30% of suitable habitat was associated with mortality risk.