Reintroduction and Behavioral Observations of Chinese Gorals (Naemorhedus griseus) in Natural Conditions

Abstract

The study of the ecology and behavior of gorals (Naemorhedus griseus) was conducted in Maelao-Maesae Wildlife Sanctuary, Chiang Mai Province during July 2012 – July 2013. The behavioral patterns of the gorals were observed using focal-scan sampling and descriptive methods. Results showed that the seven most common behavioral patterns were standing, walking, resting, grooming, scratching, feeding (foraging), and ruminating. Twelve plants were recognized as goral food based on direct field observations. Overall land area used by the gorals in this study was 81,124 m2. The highest number of gorals was found in dipterocarp forests, followed by deciduous forests and the coniferous forests, respectively. Natural condition scores (BCS) of each goral revealed moderate score levels (2.6). Survival rate under soft release conditions was high (50.00%). Female gorals were observed to give birth under soft release conditions. The results from this study provide new knowledge for the reintroduction of gorals into their natural habitat that can be used for conservation management, especially in terms of facilitating and monitoring the increasing goral populations. Effective reintroduction programs can be used as a first important step in conserving gorals in their natural habitats.