FIELD TRAINING IN WILDLIFECONSERVATION RESEARCH

TECHNIQUES AND LARGE MAMMALSURVEY AT NAM PHUI NATIONAL

BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION AREA,LAO PDR.

FINAL REPORT OF CONSULTANCY CONDUCTED FOR IUCN ANDTHE DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY UNDER THE CONSERVATION

SUBPROGRAMME OF THE LAO-SWEDISH FORESTRYPROGRAMME, MARCH 30-JUNE 19, 1997.

By

Ramesh Boonratana, Ph.D.

IUCN The World Conservation Union

15 Fa Ngum Road,

Vientiane, Lao PDR.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Numerous persons and agencies have contributed much effort towards the success of this

first training in field wildlife conservation research techniques and large mammal survey in

Nam Phui NBCA. I would like to acknowledge Mr. Chanthaviphone Inthavong, Head of

Center for Protected Areas and Watershed Management (CPAWM); Mr. Vene Vongphet,

Deputy Head of CPAWM and Head of the Conservation Subprogram of the Lao-Swedish

Forestry Programme (LSFP); Mr. Khamphet Chanthavong, Assistant Head of Protected

Areas Unit of CPAWM; Mr. Khamkoun Khounbolin, Wildlife Inventory and Management

Unit of CPAWM; the staff of CPAWM; Mr. Phouviang Midara, former Head of Nam Phui

NBCA; the staff of Nam Phui NBCA; Mr. Stuart Chape, IUCN Country Representative for

Lao PDR; the staff of IUCN Lao PDR; Mr. Bounhaeng Duangprachan, Provincial Governor

of Sayaburi; Mr. Thongpetch Phengtawan, District Governor of Muang Thong; Mr.

Khammane, Director of the Sayaburi Provincial Forestry Department; Mr. Suriphong and

Dr. Yangyong, Director and Deputy Director of Sayaburi PAFO; Phan Aek Siangsuk

Phommakhan and Phan Tho Boon Lien, Commanding Officer and Second-in-Command

of Sayaburi Provincial Army; the personnel of Sayaburi Provincial Army; Mr. Jan Olaf

Lundberg and Peter Hansen, Regional Coordinator and Research Adviser for the Lao-

Swedish Forestry Programme, based in Luang Prabang. Rob Tizzard assisted with the

reptile and amphibian identification. Translation of the executive summary was done by Mr.

Khamkoun Khounbolin.

This exercise would not have been possible without the interest and efforts of my “boss”

and friend, Dr. Clive W. Marsh, IUCN/LSFP Senior Conservation and Protected Areas

Planning Adviser. Not least, many thanks to all the participants in this exercise for their

commitment and support as I practiced the art of becoming an instructor. My personal

thanks to Sao Kamla of Ban Nakhagnang and Sao Chan of Ban Na Sampan for providing

the much-needed distraction during my three months stint in Lao PDR.

I would like, however, to dedicate this report to the memory of Mr. Chanthone Phothitay’s

child, whose life was taken away soon after birth while Mr. Chanthone was actively

participating in this exercise.

Ramesh Boonratana, Ph.D.

A.k.a. Zimbo

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Field training in wildlife conservation research techniques and a large mammal survey

were carried out in the 1,912 km² Nam Phui National Biodiversity Conservation Area

(NBCA), in Sayaburi Province, northern Lao PDR, from April to May 1997. Participants

comprised personnel from the NBCA Management Team, Agricultural and Forestry

Offices (DAFO’s) in the Districts of Thong and Phieng, Center for Protected Area and

Watershed Management (CPAWM), and the Sayaburi Provincial Army. Training was

carried out both in the classroom at the NBCA’s headquarters in Ban Nakhagnang, and in

the field while actually carrying out surveys for large mammals. Training imparted included

the use of maps and compass, survey and data collection techniques, and lectures in

conservation biology, wildlife ecology and animal behavior.

Techniques employed to survey for large mammals involved both intensive and extensive

patrolling along existing animal trails, particularly along ridges and waterways. Based on

past experience, these are the areas where wildlife most often frequents. Survey routes

took the shape of loops, originating and ending at the camps. This allowed greater

coverage of an area. Camps were moved once an area was satisfactorily surveyed.

In 300-man days, the exercise covered 620 kms of trails (including replicate routes), and

an area of 240 km². Surveys confirmed the presence of 46 non-volant terrestrial mammals

and 63 birds. The number of mammals would have been larger had trapping for small

terrestrial mammals and bats been carried out. The list of birds recorded was limited by the

participants lack of adequate experience at bird identification. There is probably a viable

population of elephant and gaur in the Nam Phui NBCA, and their wide distribution is most

probably related to the distribution of mineral licks in and around the NBCA.

Some recommendations towards an effective conservation management of the Nam Phui

NBCA are summarized below:

• Training should be conducted in the Lao language without an interpreter, and should

be carried out over a period of at least three weeks in both the classroom and the field.

In addition, future training programs should include office-based PAFO and DAFO

personnel, university and college students, and schoolteachers.

• Unauthorized persons should not be permitted to carry firearms in the NBCA. There

should also be a curfew imposed on the communities residing in the NBCA, from

23.00 to 05.00h. Entry into the Controlled Use Zone of the NBCA by non-NBCA

residents should be allowed only between 06.00 to 18.00h.

• Anti-poaching patrolling and law enforcement activities should be carried out regularly,

but randomly, and should focus at mineral licks. A checkpoint should be a permanent

feature of the NBCA’s headquarters (Sayaburi to Pak Lay road), and should be

manned for 24 hours a day. This will curb the flow of illegal timber and other non-

timber forest produce going out of Sayaburi along that route. Permanent guard posts

should be established at Ban Pak Xong, at the two ends of the ‘North-South Security

Track’, and the entrances into the NBCA from both Muang Thong and Muang Pak

Lay. The field staff should be fully equipped in order to perform their tasks.

• Seek the Sayaburi Provincial Army’s cooperation and assistance in managing the

NBCA, and maintain the ‘Special Conservation Unit’ of the provincial army to carry out

activities beyond the scope of the NBCA management team.

• There should be regular and open communication between the NBCA management

team with all the other agencies with interests in and around the NBCA. The problems

of land allocation and planning in the northern part of the NBCA must be quickly

resolved. Aerial inspection and photography is needed to map the current habitat

condition and agricultural encroachment.

• Carry out a wildlife survey in the central west and southwest of the NBCA that could

not be covered during this project. Initiate a long-term study on the distribution and

density of the Asian elephant and gaur in the NBCA.

• The core area and the areas extending northwards and southwards along its western

border should be designated as a Total Protection Zone. All areas within a kilometer

radius of mineral licks should be included into this category. The northern part of the

NBCA around the settlements, and some area in the south around Muang Thong can

be designated as Controlled Use Zones, although with some amendments to its

terminology. A buffer zone should be created in the area immediately east of the

NBCA towards the NBCA’s headquarters, and can be designated as a Provincial

Conservation Forest. There must also be some agreed-upon commitments by the

district governors and village headmen regarding the NBCA’s boundary and zones.

• The NBCA management team should seek the assistance of a long-term adviser. The

adviser should have the correct organizational and managerial skills to coordinate

programs on research, training and management, and to coordinate with the different

agencies with interests in and around the NBCA. The adviser should also be able to

conduct negotiations with communities in and around the NBCA, and promote rural

development projects in exchange for recognition and compliance with rules,

boundaries and zones.

GLOSSARY

Ban = village

Bor = well or large mineral lick

CPAWM = Center for Protected Area and Watershed Management

DAFO = District Agriculture and Forestry Office

Huoay = stream

IUCN = World Conservation Union

LSFP = Lao-Swedish Forestry Programme

Nong = pool/pond/lake

PAFO = Provincial Agriculture and Forestry Office

Pong = mineral lick

Muang = district

NBCA = National Biodiversity Conservation Area

Nam = river

CONTENTS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS i

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ii

LAO TRANSLATION OF THE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY iv

GLOSSARY vi

CONTENTS vii

LIST OF FIGURES ix

1. INTRODUCTION 1

1.1 Background 1

1.2 Objectives 1

1.2.1 Primary Objectives 1

1.2.2 Secondary Objectives 3

2. STUDY AREA 4

2.1 Introduction 4

2.2 Habitat Type 4

2.3 Human Settlement 4

2.4 Access Within the NBCA 5

3. METHODS 6

3.1 Introduction 6

3.2 Training 7

3.2.1 Classroom Training Outline 8

3.3 Surveys 10

4. RESULTS 14

4.1 Training 14

4.2 Surveys 15

4.2.1 Wild Fauna 15

4.2.1.1 Status Account of Large Mammals 15

4.2.2 Mineral Sources 18

4.2.2.1 South 18

4.2.2.2 Central 20

4.2.2.3 North 21

4.2.3 Pools and Wallows 23

4.2.4 Human Intrusions and Activities 23

5. CONCLUDING DISCUSSION & RECOMMENDATIONS 26

5.1 Introduction 26

5.2 Training 26

5.3 Surveys 27

5.4 General 28

5.5 Recommendations 28

5.5.1 Training 28

5.5.2 Management 29

5.5.2.1 Patrolling and law enforcement 29

5.5.2.2 Research 31

5.5.2.3 Zonation 31

5.5.2.4 General 33

5.6 Conclusions 34

APPENDIX I Staff of the Nam Phui NBCA 35

APPENDIX II List of participants 36

APPENDIX III Field equipment list 37

APPENDIX IV List of wildlife recorded at Nam Phui NBCA 38

REFERENCES 42

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1.1 Map of Nam Phui NBCA 2

Figure 3.1 Survey routes in northern Nam Phui NBCA 11

Figure 3.2 Survey routes in central and southern Nam Phui NBCA 12

Figure 4.1 Locations of mineral licks in southern and central Nam Phui NBCA 19

Figure 4.2 Locations of mineral licks in northern Nam Phui NBCA 22

Figure 5.1 Map of proposed zonation in Nam Phui NBCA 32

1. INTRODUCTION

From a biological perspective, very little is known about Nam Phui National Biodiversity

Conservation Area (NBCA), in northern Lao PDR (figure 1.1). No wildlife surveys have

ever been carried out in the Nam Phui NBCA since it was gazetted in 1993. Plans to

conduct a wildlife survey in this NBCA had not been possible in the past due to security

reasons (Berkmuller et al., 1995). Species inventory is, however, one of the more

important prerequisites towards effective management of a protected area and the

conservation of its wild fauna and habitats. Additional data on species abundance and

distribution is necessary to determine the full value of a protected area, and to show where

management is needed. This report describes the first survey of its kind for the Nam Phui

NBCA, and aims to contribute to meeting those needs. This project also aimed to initiate

training of the NBCA staff, so as to assist them in performing their tasks and maximizing

their efforts in the field.

1.1 BACKGROUND

Nam Phui NBCA is one of the few areas in northern Lao PDR with a large intact forest

cover. Large mammals that are reportedly present in the area include the Asian elephant

(Elephas maximus), gaur (Bos gaurus), banteng (Bos javanicus), Asiatic black bear (Ursus

thibetanus), Malayan sun bear (Helarctos malayanus), tiger (Panthera tigris), leopard

(Panthera pardus), gibbons (Hylobates spp.), and possibly the Javan (Rhinoceros

sondaicus) and/or Sumatran rhinoceros (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis) (Salter, 1993;

Berkmuller et al., 1995).

Nam Phui NBCA is one of the four NBCAs in Lao PDR supported by the Conservation

Subprogramme of the Lao Swedish Forestry Programme (LSFP). The NBCA is staffed by

a seven-man team headed by Mr. Phouviang Midara (Appendix I).

1.2 OBJECTIVES

1.2.1 Primary Objectives:

i. To conduct a survey for large mammals in Nam Phui NBCA;

ii. To provide on-the job training to the staff of Nam Phui NBCA and selected staff of

the Center for Protected Areas and Watershed Management (CPAWM);

iii. To prepare a program for wildlife monitoring, anti-poaching patrolling and law

enforcement activities for the NBCA.

1.2.2 Secondary Objectives:

i. To assess the current level of hunting and exploitation of other non-timber forest

products (NTFPs), including the status of the forest, in terms of logging and

agricultural encroachment;

ii. To assess the impact of a new north-south track within the NBCA currently being

constructed by the military, advising on mitigation measures to be jointly

undertaken by the military and the NBCA;

iii. To provide an assessment of the course participants’ capabilities and suggest

their future training requirements.

2. STUDY AREA

2.1 INTRODUCTION

Nam Phui NBCA, measuring 1,912 km² is located in Sayaburi Province, northern Lao

PDR, between 18®12’-18®59’N and 101®04’-101®30’E (Salter et al., 1991) (figure 1.1).

There is, however, a proposal to excise 762 km² at the northern end of the NBCA,

reducing it to 1,150 km² (Berkmuller et al., 1995). The proposed excised area is mainly

degraded forest and land affected by shifting cultivation. The NBCA, covers three districts,

Muang Thong to the southwest, Muang Pak Lay to the southeast, and Muang Phieng to

the north. The entire western boundary of the NBCA coincides with the borders of Lao

PDR and Thailand. Much of this international border is largely sealed due to the presence

of landmines all along the mountain ridge that divides the two countries. The NBCA can be

accessed from Sayaburi provincial town via Ban Nampouy in the north and Muang Pak

Lay in the south, by an all-weather road.

2.2 HABITAT TYPE

Nam Phui NBCA has a contiguous, largely undisturbed forest cover (93%), mainly

represented by mixed deciduous (88%) and dry evergreen forest (5%). Additional forest

types (1%) include tropical montane evergreen and lowland semi-evergreen forest types

(Salter et al., 1991; Berkmuller et al., 1995). Only 40% of the habitat, however, comprise

denser and mature forest. The landform is steep and rugged, with more than 90% lying

above 500 m. The drainage is generally eastwards, into the Mekong River.

A significant feature of the vegetation is the degree of local variation. On the ground,

substantial area in the center of the reserve appears to be species-rich wet evergreen

type. Further botanical investigation of the reserve is needed.

2.3 HUMAN SETTLEMENT

There are five established settlements within the NBCA. Ban Na Sampan (pop. 1320), Ban

Na Nguen (pop. 470), Ban Na Ven (pop. 385), and Ban Pak Xong (pop. 143) are located

in the northern part of the NBCA, along the Nam Phui River; and Ban Mai (pop. 227) lies in

the central region, just inside the eastern boundary of the NBCA. The majority of the

villagers in the northern settlements comprise the Lao Theung and Lao Soung ethnic

groups, while the community at Ban Mai is Lao Lum. All these villagers practice paddy and

shifting cultivation, and gather a wide range of forest products.

Besides villages, there are several military camps and outposts scattered throughout the

NBCA. Also, there is a nomadic group of primarily gatherers, known as ‘Tong Leurng’

(Yellow Banana Leaf People), present within the central part of the area. Nothing much is

known about this group of ‘forest’ people. There are contradictory reports on their social

organization, apparently based on their occasional contacts with settled villages outside

the NBCA, which they visit periodically to trade forest produce such as bees’ honey and

edible shoots with clothes, salt, rice, etc. In the extreme southwest, a new district of 16 Lao

Lum villages, Muang Thong, forms an enclave within the NBCA.

2.4 ACCESS WITHIN THE NBCA

In the north there is an all-weather road running off from the main Sayaburi to Pak Lay

road, at Ban Nampouy, into the NBCA to about 7 kms west of Ban Na Sampan. This road

runs along the to Nam Pouy all the way from Ban Vaiangxai. In the central region, there is

an abandoned military cum logging track running from Ban Nakhagnang westwards into

the NBCA via Ban Mai. From Ban Mai, the track follows the Nam Phoun as far as Nam

Lop1. This track is accessible by a four-wheel drive vehicle during the dry season, with

difficulty, at least 3 kms into the NBCA. Further south, there is an all-weather road running

east west from Muang Pak Lay to Muang Thong, mostly following the banks of Nam Lay.

Currently, there is construction work along this road and some limited logging mostly within

20m of the road.

There is another track from the north at Ban Na Ven running southwards to Muang Thong.

This is the proposed ‘North-South Security Road’ for military purposes. This road runs

parallel to the NBCA’s western boundary, and alongside the Nam Lop. Road construction

was stopped due to lack of funds, and because landmines were encountered in places.

This road could be drivable for about 15 kms south from Ban Na Ven, subject to clearing a

few areas of rubble caused by landslides, and several fallen trees. On May 10, 1997,

however, work on this north-south track has resumed, but from the southern end at Muang

Thong.

1 Nam Lop is spelt as Nam Loy in the currently available maps. Nam Sani on the maps should read Nam Xon andthe river flowing south from Ban Mai is Nam Sani.

3. METHODS

3.1 INTRODUCTION

An 11-day reconnaissance trip to Nam Phui NBCA was made in early April before the

actual training and survey exercise. This enabled the coordinator to assess the level and

training needs of the participants, therefore suitably adapting the training program to suit

the current needs. During the trip, meetings were held with the officials at both the

provincial and district levels. One meeting held at the Provincial Army headquarters in

Sayaburi resulted in the formation of a ‘Special Conservation Unit’ within the provincial

army. It was realized during the reconnaissance trip that the military’s cooperation is

essential for effective conservation efforts in Nam Phui NBCA. The formation of this

“Special Conservation Unit’ could possibly mark the beginning of an important cooperative

effort towards the conservation and management of Nam Phui NBCA.

After a short break over the ‘Lao Pi Mai’ period (Lao New Year), the training and survey

exercise took a total of 32 days, from April 23 to May 24. This included three days of

classroom training and pre-survey briefing, and a one-day field trip to a weekend market

on the Thai-Lao border (18°06’N/101°10’E) near Pha Keo, south of the NBCA, to

investigate the wildlife trade that reportedly occurs there. A mid-survey briefing was also

conducted where the participants’ performance was assessed and discussed. At the end

of the exercise, a debriefing was held at the NBCA’s headquarters and at the Provincial

Forestry Office.

The itinerary was as follows:

April 23 - 27: classroom training and briefing at the NBCA’s headquarters;

April 28 - May 8: wildlife surveys in the central part of the NBCA;

May 8: mid survey briefing and assessment of participants’ performance at NBCA’s

headquarters;

May 9 – 15:wildlife surveys in the southern part of the NBCA;

May 16: rest at the NBCA’s headquarters; Capt. Sila went to the provincial army

headquarters in Sayaburi town to confirm survey plans;

May 17-23: wildlife surveys in the northern part of the NBCA;

May 24: debriefing and party for participants.

3.2 TRAINING

Training in field wildlife conservation research techniques was conducted in two stages.

Firstly, in the classroom at the NBCA’s headquarters (18°47.5’N/101°22.1’E) at Ban

Nakhagnang (figure 1.1); and secondly, in the field while actually carrying out large

mammal surveys. Training was conducted in the Lao language, and directed towards the

particular needs of the NBCA, its field staff, and its wildlife-related problems. Altogether,

the exercise was attended by 12 participants from various agencies (Appendix II). Three

further NBCA staff attended the initial classroom phase of the training (Appendix I). After

preliminary introductions, participants were divided into two teams, to comprise at least

one individual from each agency. Team membership were changed during the exercise,

as seem fit to the coordinator, allowing both teams to be of similar, if not equal strength.

Throughout the training there was a strong emphasis on :

• Teamwork

• Preparation and planning for fieldwork

• Check and double check

The training began with lectures on the need for wildlife, conservation, protected areas,

and what the training hoped to achieve. This included a brief talk on ethics when carrying

out fieldwork on wildlife and in the forests. Since several participants had never had any

experience at camping in the forest, lessons began with the different methods of making

camps and organizing sleeping arrangements. This was followed by going through a list of

equipment (Appendix III), which every field worker should be carrying, explaining the

importance of each item. A brief lesson in the correct use and care for binoculars was also

given, when it was observed that many participants were not familiar with their use.

Detailed lessons in the use of maps and compasses were imparted to the participants.

Much time was developed to familiarizing the participants with maps and compasses,

emphasizing that competence in their use is the basis of any successful survey and

management of a protected area. Then, an overview of the different wildlife census

techniques was given, with particular attention being paid to the survey method to be used

(section 3.2). This was followed by lessons in making observations and recording evidence

in the field, including the art of ‘reading’ tracks and signs. It was compulsory for all

participants to take down notes during surveys (section 3.3), to develop a good note-taking

habit. A collection of sketches and measurements of tracks of some large Asian mammals

was provided to the participants. Participants were taught to take simple measurements

and make sketches of tracks and scats. Finally, participants were introduced to the

ecology and behavior of some of the larger mammals. This was to assist them in making

observations in the field and provide a better understanding of the need of scientific data

towards effectively managing species and protected areas. In the evenings, after dinner,

videos on forests and wildlife were shown. This was followed by a brief discussion.

In the field, the coordinator also led a sub-team of two participants on surveys. Participants

led by the coordinator were changed on a daily basis, to allow closer on-the-job training to

the participants. At camps, in the evening, participants were frequently given simple

assignments involving the use of maps and compass. Time was also made available to

interested participants to ask questions on wildlife ecology and behavior, and

conservation-related issues. The theory and use of a Global Positioning System (GPS)

unit was also explained to some interested participants. Some participants made use of

the evenings to improve their spoken English.

3.2.1 Classroom Training Outline:

a. Introductory Lectures:

- purpose of training program and survey

- definition and purpose of wildlife conservation and protected areas

- ethics of fieldwork (dos and don’ts)

- attire (field clothing)

b. Camping and Field Equipment:

- hammocks, sleeve hammocks, tents and bamboo-based temporary shelter

- ideal locations

- field equipment list and purpose of each

- use and care of binoculars and other field equipment

c. Maps:

- definition, types and purposes

- information from maps (5Ds)

- description: area’s name, map number and edition , and locations (lat/lon, UTM &

6-digit)

- details: man-made, vegetation, drainage, and landform features

- directions: north-south-east-west, true and magnetic north, and general directions

- distances: map scales, measuring distances (linear and non-linear)

- designations: names

- selecting best routes to travel

d. Compass:

- definition, types and purpose

- taking bearings and determining back-bearings

- shadow-tip compass and clock

e. Map and Compass:

- bearings between two points

- determining locations (triangulation)

f. Field Observations and Data Collection:

- taking notes (basic information to record) and sketches

- data sheets

- photography

- identifying species (field guides)

- hunter and villager interviews

g. Indirect Evidence:

- vocalization

- tracks and signs

- scats and scat analysis

- sketches, measurements, aging and determining taxonomic group of tracks and

signs

h. Wildlife Census Techniques:

- brief overview

- presence/absence

i. Wildlife Ecology and Behavior:

- brief overview with examples drawn from large Asian mammals

j. Video Sessions:

3.3 SURVEYS

Intensive and extensive surveys for large mammals were carried out at three sites (figures

3.1 & 3.2) within the Nam Phui NBCA. Animal presence was primarily recorded based on

actual sightings and other evidence left by the animal. No trapping was carried out.

Surveys were carried out on foot, and involved the thorough patrolling of trails, particularly

along ridges, waterways, and dirt tracks. Using animal trails is most probably the best way

to cover large areas. Furthermore, the chances of encountering an animal or its signs are

higher when patrols are carried out along existing animal trails. In addition, mineral licks

important to many large mammals are usually found along animal trails near waterways.

Survey routes were pre-determined from 1:100,000 topographic maps (Maps # E47-47,

E47-59 & E47-71). Routes normally took the shape of irregular loops, originating and

terminating at camps. Speed of travel when carrying out patrols was maintained between

40 to 60 minutes a kilometer, with regular pauses of a few minutes to observe the general

surroundings. This was to avoid missing animal signs (tracks, scats, wallows, etc.). Thus,

up to an average of eight kilometers was covered on each route. Surveys usually began

between 0700 to 0730 h and ended between 1500 to 1630, although occasionally some

teams would return to camp as late as1900 h.

Participants were divided into two major teams. Each team covered different areas and

moved camps when an area was satisfactorily covered. From each camp two sub-teams

of two to three participants would cover different routes. During patrols, team members

would simultaneously searched for evidence of wildlife presence. Participants were trained

in survey and data collection techniques before actual surveys (section 3.1). One or two

participants usually stayed back at camp on a rotational basis, serving as camp guard and

cook for the day. At one camp in the extreme northwestern part of the NBCA, one team

had to have the armed participants take turns at guarding the camp during the night due to

a security-related problem.

The presence of all species were recorded whenever they were sighted, heard and/or from

other signs. Basic information recorded included date, time, species, evidence, and

location. Evidence such as tracks and scats were sketched, described, measured and

aged. Scats were broken-up on site to observe their contents, which might provide further

information on the animal’s feeding ecology and behavior. The presence of mineral licks

was also recorded and the locations determined using maps and compass, and where

feasible, a Global Positioning System (GPS) unit was used. Also recorded were signs of

human intrusion and activities. Whenever contacts were made with villagers and hunters in

and around the NBCA, interviews were carried out to gather further information on the

wildlife present in those areas.

4. RESULTS

4.1 Training

All participants showed basic knowledge in wildlife identification, but names of species and

families were generally limited to common names in Lao. This was with the exception of

Mr. Khamkoun Khounbolin, whose knowledge of the spoken and written English is fair.

Furthermore, he has had several experiences carrying out wildlife surveys and working

with foreign counterparts. Albeit interests in wildlife and forest work varied greatly between

individuals, all were capable of performing their tasks. At the end of the training and survey

exercise, all participants were fairly competent in the basic use of maps and compass, and

some were even able to train their fellow participants. Team leaders were able to plan their

survey routes from maps with minimal guidance, and many participants could navigate

with maps and compass. Some of the participants even worked late into the night using

candlelight and flashlight, improving their skills with maps and compass. Simple

assignments, incorporating bearings, distances and locations were given to the interested

participants.

As instructed, all participants recorded observations into their notebooks. The quality and

quantity of information recorded, however, varied greatly between individuals, in

accordance with their interest in this exercise. Team leaders, given the responsibility of

compiling their teams’ observations did a competent job of putting together the records of

wildlife presence and evidence into a simple format, as ascribed during the pre-survey

training.

This whole exercise was partially handicapped by the lack of compasses and binoculars.

On the average, there was one compass and a pair of binoculars to every three

participants. Overall, this exercise showed the importance of on-the-job training and

individual contact in imparting skills to the field staff. Such a training program should run for

at least three weeks, to allow proper skills and attitude to be developed. Furthermore, a

close friendly rapport between the instructor and trainees should be developed to allow the

trainees to overcome their ‘shyness’ in asking questions.

As a follow-up to this exercise, Mr. Singkaew Phongthai, a staff of the Nam Phui NBCA

was provided with materials and the task of setting up a botanical transect close to the

NBCA’s headquarters. The botanical transect will be used to obtain information on

composition, structure and phenology of the forest, information useful for describing the

forest and for future ecological studies in the area. This transect when completed can also

be used for conducting wildlife transect surveys, besides being useful towards future

training program at the NBCA.

4.2 Surveys

Including replicate routes, a total distance of 620 kms of trails was walked during this

period. This comprised 150 kms of trails in the north, 340 kms of trails in the central region,

and 130 kms in the south (figures 3.1 & 3.2). This represents an area of 80 km² surveyed

in the north, 96 km² in the central region, and 64 km² in the south. In all, a total area of 240

km² of the Nam Phui NBCA was covered in 300-man days of survey, approximately 12.6%

of the NBCA.

4.2.1 Wild Fauna

A list of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fishes recorded during surveys in and

around Nam Phui NBCA is shown in Appendix IV. Altogether, 46 non-volant terrestrial

mammal and 63 bird species were confirmed from the area. This list is not exhaustive, as

no trapping was carried out. There were more bird species observed than that recorded,

as the participants were inexperienced at bird identification. Some areas could not be

surveyed due to the danger of landmines and security-related military operations. Several

army personnel reported that there is a high density of wildlife, especially elephant, gaur

and primates, towards the central west and southwest of the NBCA. Although remaining to

be confirmed, these reports are consistent with the remoteness of this area from any

settlement. Furthermore, gibbon calls heard were all from this general direction.

4.2.1.1 Status Account of Some Large Mammals2

• Asian elephant (Elephas maximus); IUCN Endangered; CITES Appendix I; Lao

PDR Category I: Fresh and recent evidence of the Asian elephant was commonly seen in

the central and southern part of the NBCA. Towards the north, evidence was limited to the

northwestern sector of the NBCA. Tracks of young animals observed suggest the

presence of breeding animals. Based on sightings and fresh evidence, the elephant

population in Nam Phui NBCA is estimated between 350 to 500 animals. This, however, is

a crude population estimate. Furthermore, there are 135 domestic elephants in Muang

Thong, several of which are released to the forest between June to August, and are

collected again in November and December (Thongpet Phengtawan, pers.comm.). An

immediate threat to the elephants is organized poaching for ivory. Reportedly, eight

2 Threatened list follows IUCN, 1996 and Salter, 1993.

elephants were killed in 1995, three in 1996, and one in April 1997. The first two incidents

occurred in the northern central part of the NBCA, and the recent most incident reportedly

occurred in the northwest, near Pong Phoy (section 4.2.2.3). As more areas in the northern

part of the NBCA are being cleared for agriculture, loss of suitable habitat and forest

fragmentation is a potential long-term threat to the elephants. Some rice-fields in the

northern sector were reportedly damaged by elephants in 1996.

• Sumatran and Javan rhinoceroses (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis and Rhinoceros

sondaicus) IUCN Critically Endangered; CITES Appendix I; Lao PDR Category I: In all the

areas surveyed, there was no evidence whatsoever (recent or past) to indicate the

presence of either the Sumatran or Javan rhinoceros. Until all areas within the NBCA are

surveyed, there is still a remote possibility that either or both species may still be present.

• Gaur (Bos gaurus) IUCN Vulnerable; CITES Appendix I; Lao PDR Category I:

Signs of gaur were scarce in the north and south, and mainly observed in and around

mineral licks. Their tracks and dung were frequently encountered in the central region.

These included fresh tracks and dung of an adult and young pair. Based on fresh

evidence, a crude estimate for gaur population in the NBCA is between 200 to 300

animals. Gaurs are also threatened by poaching for trophies, meat and their bile, and

possibly disease through contact with domestic cattle and buffaloes. Gaur bile apparently

fetches US$1200 each in Thailand.

• Serow (Capricornis sumatrensis) IUCN Vulnerable; CITES Appendix I; Lao PDR

Category I: Tracks and droppings of serow were found only in the karst mountain range

north of Ban Mai. The main threat to this species is poaching for both meat and medicine.

Oily extract from this animal is used in treating muscular aches and broken bones.

• Sambar deer (Cervus unicolor) Lao PDR Category II: Evidence of this species

was scarce in the south, uncommon to common in the central and low in the north. This

species is mainly threatened by poaching for meat.

• Barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak) Lao PDR Category II: Sighting and indirect

evidence of this species suggest that it is fairly common in the central region, uncommon in

the north, and scarce to uncommon in the south. In the south, much of the signs and

sighting of the barking deer was limited to the upper altitude (> 650 m) of the Phou

Kaothang mountain range. Threat to the barking deer is poaching for meat and forest fires

caused by hunters. Hunters in the south (from Pak Lay and Thong districts) frequently set

fire to the forests on mountain ridges to flush wildlife.

• Tiger (Panthera tigris) IUCN Endangered; CITES Appendix I; Lao PDR Category

I: One set of fresh tracks was encountered in the upper reaches of Houay Sung Naak, a

tributary of Nam Hoy in the central region. A fresh scat sample containing hairs of wild pig

(Sus scrofa) was found in the northern sector, which could possibly belong to a tiger.

Tracks of tigers were infrequently reported in the north, northwest, central (including at Ban

Nakhagnang, outside the NBCA), the south, and the southwest. There are rare reports of

tigers attacking domestic cattle, albeit two of the reports were very recent, at Ban

Nakhagnang and Ban Khem (Muang Thong). There is no evidence of poaching for tigers,

but one potential threat is the forced elimination of tigers, if they continue to attack

domestic cattle. Based on the single evidence found and the area surveyed, the density of

tigers in the NBCA is estimated at 0.004/km². This is most likely a lower estimate.

• Leopard (Panthera pardus) IUCN Threatened; CITES Appendix I; Lao PDR

Category I: Only one clear track was found near a small stream in the Nam Phoun/Nam

Hoy area. Villagers’ and hunters’ reports of sighting the leopard are infrequent. Possibly

rare.

• Clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa) IUCN Vulnerable; CITES Appendix I; Lao

PDR Category II: Although villagers, hunters and army personnel report this animal being

sighted more often than leopard (Panthera pardus), no track was encountered during the

surveys. Possibly rare.

• Leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis) CITES Appendix I; Lao PDR Category II:

Tracks and possibly scats, although uncommon, were found in all areas surveyed,

particularly near human settlements. Threatened by poaching for meat, although not

preferred, are nevertheless shot and eaten.

• Golden cat (Catopuma temminckii) IUCN Lower Risk; CITES Appendix I; Lao

PDR Category II: Fresh and recent tracks were infrequently encountered in all areas

surveyed, particularly at salt licks and along forest tracks. The golden cat is possibly

relatively more abundant than the other cat species.

• Asian wild dog (Cuon alpinus) IUCN Vulnerable; CITES Appendix II; Lao PDR

Category II: This species and the golden jackal were occasionally reported seen by

villagers, hunters and army personnel in the southwest, central and northern sectors of the

NBCA. Their presence could only be confirmed when their tracks were encountered far

from human settlements because of frequent human incursion with their domestic dogs.

Recent tracks were observed in the central part of the NBCA. Barking sounds could be

heard in the upper reaches of Houay Sung Naak, but it was not possible to determine the

species from the vocalizations.

• Golden jackal (Canis aureus) Lao PDR Category II: see above.

• Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus) IUCN Vulnerable; CITES Appendix I; Lao

PDR Category I: Old and very recent claw marks were frequently encountered, particularly

in the central region, mainly in the upper reaches of Nam Hoy. It was not possible to

differentiate the Asiatic black bear and Malayan sun bear from claw marks, although both

species were reported in the NBCA. Some fresh and recent scats were also found in the

central region. A set of fresh tracks of a young animal was found along a small stream that

led into Houay San Khieo in the southern part of the NBCA. Possibly threatened by

hunting for trade. Several of the Parkia sp. trees that were fruiting during the surveys had

recent claw marks on them.

• Malayan sun bear (Helarctos malayanus) IUCN Data deficient CITES Appendix I;

Lao PDR Category I: see above. Reports of this species are fewer than the Asiatic black

bear.

• White-handed gibbon (Hylobates lar) IUCN Lower risk; CITES Appendix I; Lao

PDR Category I: Possibly rare. Vocalizations could be heard only towards the Lao/Thai

border in the west of the northern region and in the remoter central core of the NBCA. In

the north, an army patrol team reportedly shot one gibbon during the third week of May this

year, apparently from the extreme northern part of the central region. Army personnel,

however, report gibbons being common in the southwestern part of the NBCA. Threatened

by hunting for food.

• Phayre’s langur (Trachypithecus phayrei) IUCN Data deficient; CITES Appendix

II: At least three groups observed in the central region and one reported in the northern

region. Possibly rare. None reported in the south in recent years. Possibly hunted out.

Threatened by hunting for food.

• Pig-tailed macaque (Macaca nemestrina) IUCN Vulnerable; CITES Appendix II;

Lao PDR Category II: Uncommon. Possibly two large groups of 30-60 observed in the

central region, and one group of at least 10 observed in the northern region. One freshly

killed adult male was found in a hunter’s backpack in the northern region along the north-

south security track. Possibly extirpated in the south due to hunting. Threatened by hunting

for food and capture of young ones for sale.

• Assamese macaque (Macaca assamensis) IUCN Vulnerable; CITES Appendix II;

Lao PDR Category II: Rare to uncommon. Only one group of about 20 animals observed

in the central region. None observed in the north, although reported by army personnel.

Possibly hunted out in the southern region. Threatened by hunting for food and young

ones for sale.

4.2.2 Mineral Sources

4.2.2.1 South

There are three mineral licks within the survey area (figure 4.1). All three are located in the

upper reaches of Nam Lay. The largest of the three, ‘Bor Lay Chan’ (18º19.7’N/101º

12.8’E), comprised a 300 m long muddy drain and a 50 m² main lick. Tracks of large

mammals observed at this mineral lick during the reconnaissance trip in early April

belonged to the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus), gaur (Bos gaurus), lesser mousedeer

(Tragulus javanicus), and golden cat (Catopuma temminckii), Malayan porcupine (Hystrix

brachyura), and a civet. At the time of this visit, poachers had recently covered the lick

with branches and twigs. In this manner, the birds wanting to feed at the mineral lick were

forced into an area where a net trap was laid. There was a blind close to the net trap, for

the poacher to operate the trap. There was also a tree by the lick, which had a bamboo

ladder affixed to it. Presumably, this is for a hunter armed with a gun to lay in wait for

wildlife using the lick. Both the blind and the ladder were destroyed by the NBCA staff.

During a second visit to the area in May, Team 1 established a camp, ‘Camp Lay Chan’

about 250 meters from the mineral lick, to allow quick access to the lick for monitoring

wildlife and to deter poaching in the area. Daily visitations at different hours of the day were

made to deter poachers. During this time, fresh tracks of mammals observed belonged to

the Asian elephant, wild pig (Sus scrofa), sambar deer (Cervus unicolor) and barking deer

(Muntiacus muntjak). Other tracks were not discernable, due to the presence of 12

domestic water buffaloes that were brought from Muang Thong to the lick to prevent them

from being infected by parasites that were affecting some buffaloes at Muang Thong.

During the days spent there, there were not less than 200 thick-billed green pigeons

(Treron curvirostra) and several mountain imperial pigeons (Ducula badia) using the lick.

Two new blinds and bird traps had been built since the reconnaissance trip. These were

later destroyed, and the lick cleared of branches and twigs.

About 300 meters upstream, there is another large mineral lick, measuring approximately

35 meters by 25 meters. This lick was named ‘Bor Lay Chan II’ (18º19.5’N/101º12.7’E) as

we could not obtain any information as what the villagers called it. There was a recently

built bird trap and blind at the lick. The lick was covered with branches and twigs. The

branches and twigs were removed, the blind and trap destroyed.

The third mineral lick, ‘Pong Heen’ (18º19.3’N/101º12.7’E), is about 2 km further upstream,

and measured 2.5 meters by 2 meters. There was also a bird trap and a blind, and the

area outside the bird trap was similarly covered with branches and twigs. These were

subsequently destroyed.

Interestingly, several minutes after clearing the licks, thick-billed pigeons and mountain

imperial pigeons came down to the lick.

4.2.2.2 Central

There are four confirmed mineral licks in this area (figure 4.1). One ‘Pong Cha-art’ (18º

29.6’N/101º25.4’E) is, however, located outside the NBCA, on the track from Ban

Nakhagnang to Ban Mai, besides the Houay Cha-art. This lick measured 20 m by 25 m,

and tracks of wild pig and birds (possibly green pigeons). Tracks of domestic dog and

domestic elephant were also observed at this lick.

‘Pong Hae’, (18°47.4’N/101°22.1’E), measuring 3m by 1.5m, is also located outside the

NBCA, but close to the NBCA’s headquarters, and besides the Nam Gnam River. Tracks

of mammals observed at this lick were identified as those made by sambar deer and

barking deer.

The third lick is ‘Pong Saam Kha’ (18º30.5’N/101º24’E), measuring 6 m by 7 m, is located

along an abandoned logging track, about 8 km north of Ban Mai village. Tracks observed

at this lick belonged to leopard cat, sambar deer, barking deer and lesser mousedeer.

Villagers reported observing tiger tracks at this lick last year.

Team 2 reported another mineral lick, ‘Pong Houay Senung’ (18º29.8’N/101º20.5’E) up

Houay Senung. Its exact location is, however, subject to confirmation. There were possibly

a few other mineral licks in this region, observed and reported by some of the participants.

Several times participants mistakenly reported mud wallows and bathing pools as mineral

licks.

4.2.2.3 North

There are two mineral licks (figure 4.2), ‘Pong Phoy’ (18°45.8’N/101°15.9’E) and ‘Pong

Houay Haan’ (18°47.2’N/101°18.3’E) in the headwaters of Nam Pouy River, close to the

border of Thailand and Lao PDR. A male elephant was found killed at one of these licks

and its ivory removed. This incident reportedly occurred in early April, this year. Just

immediately outside the NBCA, in Ban Pak Xong there is a mineral lick ‘Pong Xong’ (18°

53.8’N/101°27.7’E), measuring 150 m by 150 m. The whole area has been cleared for

agricultural purposes. Barking deer and some bird species were reported to occasionally

use this lick. There are two other smaller mineral licks close to Ban Pak Xong, ‘Pong

Chant’ and ‘Pong Thamphak’, but both had been converted into ricefields. Another mineral

lick ‘Pong Haek’ in Ban Nam Xong, outside but very close to the NBCA, is similarly

converted to ricefields. Ten vernal hanging parrots (Loriculus vernalis) and a white-

throated kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis) were observed at this lick.

4.2.3 Pools and Wallows

An interesting topographical feature of the NBCA, especially in the north is the presence of

permanent water pools. All these pools, with the exception of Nong Xae, ranged from

approximately 16 m² to 25 m². Nong Xae (18°44.5’N/101°22.6’) measures about 30,000 m

² and is located close to a saddle, along the north-south security road.

Elephant and pig wallows were frequently encountered, particularly in the central region.

Most of these wallows were located close along the waterways, ridges and saddles. On

flatter parts of mountain ridges, frequently used elephant wallows have created little pools

of rainwater. These pools are probably an important source of water to several mammal

species during the dry season.

4.2.4 Human Intrusions and Activities

All areas surveyed had signs of human intrusion. In the south, villagers from Muang Thong

and Muang Pak Lay districts very frequently enter the NBCA to hunt and trap wild animals,

catch fish, gather edible fungus and mushrooms, and other green plants. Wildlife poachers

hunt using homemade and modern guns. Gunshots were heard both during the

reconnaissance trip and during the exercise. There were several old and recent makeshift

shelters in this area, with racks for smoking meat. Some of these poachers deliberately set

fire to the forest, especially along the ridge trails to flush out the animals. Signs of recent

and old fires were common.

Apparently, harvesting fishes by using explosives occur in this area, although the

frequency with which it occurs is uncertain. On May 9, an explosion was heard at about

14.00h along Nam Lay River close to the track that led from Muang Pak Lay to Muang

Thong. On investigation by some of the participants, four men escaped on two

motorcycles towards Muang Thong. An official letter was reportedly sent by the NBCA’s

head to the District Governor of Muang Thong in regard to this incident.

During the four days when a camp was made near Bor Lay Chan, numerous people came

through the area daily. Some were genuinely collecting edible plants and catching fishes,

but some had only guns with them. Word was put out that there was a big team of army

and NBCA personnel in the area conducting an anti-poaching operation. This was in the

hope that it would curb hunting in the area, at least for a few days.

There was also some evidence of illegal logging in the area. Restrictions to logging

operations within 20 m on either side of the new road (section 2.4) from Muang Pak Lay to

Muang Thong had apparently been ignored. There was also some old evidence of trees

being felled in the NBCA.

In the central area, villagers from Ban Mai frequently enter to fish and search for edible

plants and mushrooms, usually limited to the rivermouth of Houay Senung. Further inside

the NBCA, old and recent signs of human intrusion with evidence of hunting were

observed. Villagers, however, reported not going beyond Houay Senung since the NBCA

was established. This was contradictory to observations made along the Nam Phoun close

to Nam Lop, where campfire and machete cuts indicated very recent human presence

(less than 4 days old). There was also a simple blind made on a tree along a major animal

trail.

One survey team also found evidence of illegal logging about 4kms west of Ban Mai.

There were two recently fallen ‘mai dou’ trees (Pterocarpus spp.) with diameters of 165 cm

and 129 cm, and heights about 30 m. Apparently, some villagers from Ban Mai were

involved in this. This has been reported to the authorities for further action. Towards the

north of Ban Mai within the NBCA, there is some slash and burn agriculture.

The main activity in the northern part of the NBCA is paddy and shifting cultivation, which

is quite widespread. Forests are cleared by the slash and burn method. Since the

coordinator’s first visit to the area in early April, there have been further forest clearances

into the NBCA. This rapid loss of forested area is undoubtedly due to the rapid rate of

immigration. Villagers frequently use the north-south track to harvest ‘mak kho’ and ‘mak

taw’ palms and other forest produce. These palms are valued by the communities in this

region and are not felled when forested areas are cleared for agriculture.

Poaching for ’Mai Ketsina’ (Aquillaria sp.) is apparently quite serious with cross-border

trade. Signs of fallen trees were found on every survey route. On one particular 8 km route,

not less than 50 old and recent trees were found, including an abandoned camp of not

more than three days old. Apparently, these poachers would use the north-south track

under the cover of darkness to bring out their harvest. Evidence implies that some villagers

had a definite involvement in this.

Hunting and trapping for wild meat is closely related to the ‘Mai Ketsina’ poaching and

harvesting of ‘mak kho’ and ‘mak taw’. Numerous bird traps were found, apparently placed

there by the army personnel based at the outposts, villagers, and ‘Mai Ketsina’ poachers.

At one of the army outposts, there was a black giant squirrel (Ratufa bicolor) and water

monitor lizard (Varanus salvator), all smoked and dried. At the same outpost there was

also some feathers belonging to silver pheasant (Lophura nycthemera), grey peacock-

pheasant (Polypectron bicalcaratum), red jungle fowl (Gallus gallus), and scaly-breasted

partridge (Aborophilia cambodiana). The officer-in-command at that outpost reported that a

gibbon was shot for food during a military patrol.

On one occasion, a small group of both civilians and military personnel was met along the

north-south track with a freshly killed adult male pig-tailed macaque. On another occasion,

on the same track, a villager from Ban Na Ven was met with a freshly killed black giant

squirrel. During a one-day stay at Ban Na Sampan, meat of wild pig and Malayan

porcupine (Hystrix brachyura) was sold there, plus a live scaly-breasted partridge. On a trip

out of the NBCA, a villager from Ban Pak Xong was met carrying live emerald dove

(Chalcophaps indica) and thick-billed green pigeon (Treron curvirostra) for sale, on his way

to Ban Nampouy. Wild meat and live animals from the NBCA and the northern region are

occasionally sold at the market in Ban Nampouy.

5. CONCLUDING DISCUSSION & RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 INTRODUCTION

The primary aims of this exercise were to conduct a survey for large mammals in Nam

Phui NBCA, and provide on-the-job training in wildlife conservation research techniques to

the staff of the NBCA and CPAWM. This training and survey exercise was later extended

to include DAFO staff and personnel from the Sayaburi Provincial Army. Other aims

included providing recommendations towards an effective management of the NBCA.

5.2 TRAINING

Training in field wildlife conservation research techniques can be quite difficult with

participants who have never spend any time in the field, and are from different educational

level and background. However, results of this exercise show that it was possible to impart

training and knowledge, when participants had to actually use the knowledge and training

gained from the classroom in real situations. Participants became more focussed on their

earlier ‘maps and compass’ training when they realized its importance in terms of fieldwork

and protected area management, besides the risk of getting lost. Mentally preparing the

participants for the field by going through the field equipment list and camping

arrangements, though seemingly minor, also contributed greatly to the survey’s success.

The initial problems of ‘learning-shyness’ and attitude towards fieldwork and teamwork

were solved by the instructor’s total involvement with the participants with regard to the

daily activities. This was also achieved by conducting the training in Lao language, albeit

with occasional help from the participants themselves. Using an interpreter will serve only

to alienate the instructor. Asking questions and/or giving assignments immediately after a

particular topic was taught ensured that no participant lagged behind during the classroom

training. Questions, when asked in an informal way encouraged the participants to

participate in discussions. Training through questions and assignments were conducted

throughout the exercise.

As clearly observed from this exercise, classroom training alone will not allow knowledge

gained to be translated into knowledge deployed in real situations. Although participants

were taught how to differentiate and identify tracks, scats, feeding and other signs when

recording wildlife from indirect evidence, these could only be clarified under field

conditions. On-the-job training and individual contact over several weeks are very

important towards the preparation of field and non-field staff for effectively managing a

protected area.

A confidential assessment of the trainees, training needs and recommendations has been

submitted to the IUCN/LSFP Senior Conservation and Protected Areas Planning Adviser,

and the Head of CPAWM for further perusal.

5.3 SURVEYS

Significant finds with regard to mammals, are the presence of populations of elephants and

gaurs, that are most likely still viable. The presence of large carnivores - tiger, leopard,

clouded leopard, golden cat, Asian wild dog, golden jackal, Asiatic black bear and Malayan

sun bear was also a significant find. Bird density and diversity was highest in the northern

region. Some species, such as red jungle fowl, scaly-breasted partridge, thick-billed

pigeon, Indian cuckoo, coucals, and racket-tailed drongos were commonly encountered in

all regions.

The generally relatively low abundance of mammals in the areas surveyed, particularly in

the southern and northern part of the NBCA, imply higher levels of wildlife poaching in

these sectors. Primates, in particular the more gregarious macaques, were rarely

encountered although the habitat is rich in legumes and appears very edible. Of the three

areas, the central region, most likely due to less human incursions, had better density and

diversity of mammals. In the south, hunting focussed at major mineral licks has reduced

the number of large herbivores and some bird species. Similarly, frequent forest fires

deliberately set by hunters to flush wildlife has reduced the amount of habitat available to

the animals. Towards the north, in addition to hunting, wildlife is seriously threatened by

the rapid loss of habitat to forest clearance for agriculture.

In all areas surveyed, wildlife is threatened by the presence of domestic animals. Some

wildlife species are possibly threatened by disease-bearing domestic animals. Domestic

dogs in the NBCA are known to attack and kill wildlife. A serious potential threat to wildlife

and the NBCA as a whole, is the increased access into the NBCA that will reach once the

north-south security road is completed. Also, there is apparently organized poaching for

‘Mai Ketsina’, and on a smaller scale for timber products.

Another significant find in the NBCA is the presence of several mineral licks, and the

concentration of wildlife in their vicinity. In addition, the mineral licks encountered were

along or very close to rivers and streams. Destruction of the mineral licks and wildlife

poaching at these licks will significantly reduce wildlife population.

5.4 GENERAL

As was apparent from the reconnaissance trip but further reconfirmed in the main survey,

the military’s cooperation is central and far effective towards the conservation of Nam Phui

NBCA, as much of the area is under their control. During this exercise, it was observed

that the military for security reasons are already carrying out conservation work by

patrolling the area for illegal human presence. In recent years, all illegal human activity in

the area were related to the poaching of ‘Mai Ketsina’, elephant and gaur. However,

military patrols in search of poachers and the military’s findings (remains of elephant or

gaur, etc) on these patrols are not known to the NBCA staff until usually about a month or

two later. This, is largely the weakness of the NBCA’s management, in terms of

maintaining communication with the related agencies in and around the NBCA.

Another weakness of the management team is curbing the illegal trade of timber and other

non-timber forest produce through the main road from Sayaburi to Pak Lay, which is right

in front of the NBCA’s headquarters. Trucks laden with timber can be often heard rumbling

down the road after midnight, usually preceded by a motorcycle outrider. This motorcyclist

presumably looks out for the possibility that the road is being blocked for checking

purposes.

Throughout the exercise, the Provincial Army’s ‘Special Conservation Unit’ would instruct

the army personnel based at the main camps and some outposts to cease hunting in the

area. At one remote outpost, which did not have any alternate source of protein, a dozen

young chickens were given by the coordinator as a gesture of goodwill.

In general, the community in and around the NBCA is not aware of the purpose of the

NBCA. They do know that it is a protected area, and that they are not allowed to do any

hunting or logging in it. Several villagers have indicated interest in having a person explain

to them the purpose behind conserving wildlife and the forests, and answer specific and

general questions that they have.

5.5 RECOMMENDATIONS

5.5.1 Training

• Training should be conducted in the Lao language without the use of an interpreter.

This will quickly create rapport between the trainees and the instructor by removing

the third party relationship, therefore greatly overcoming the trainees’ reluctance in

asking questions.

• The training conducted along the same lines, lasting for a minimum of three weeks,

should be repeated at least biannually, therefore reinforcing the previous participants’

training and imparting knowledge to the new ones. In addition, such training when

combined with surveys will allow wildlife to be monitored, and provide further input into

managing the NBCA.

• Extend training exercise to include schoolteachers, university students, and office-

based CPAWM, PAFO and DAFO staff. Exposure of this type would provide a clearer

understanding of wildlife and habitat conservation. It will also assist the office-based

staff in performing their tasks related to administration and policies, in addition to

having a ‘hands-on’ understanding of the problems in the field and those faced by the

field staff.

5.5.2 Management

5.5.2.1 Patrolling and Law Enforcement

• Unauthorized persons should not be allowed to carry firearms in the NBCA, and

legitimate residents living in the NBCA must surrender their firearms. This will not only

reduce the level of hunting, but also assist the military in performing their security-

related duties.

• Anti-poaching patrolling activities should be carried regularly but randomly, so as not

to allow poachers from knowing the patrolling schedule. Foot patrols should be carried

out along the smaller rivers and streams, where poachers camp are usually located.

Focus of anti-poaching patrolling activities should be on the mineral licks. A work

schedule should be developed such that field patrols of at least a week is undertaken

each month.

• Have a semi-permanent shelter made of bamboo built at Camp Lay Chan (18°

19.7’N/101°13’E), about 250 m from Bor Lay Chan. This shelter will provide quick

overnight facility to the NBCA staff to conduct their anti-poaching patrolling activities.

Furthermore, it is strategically located along the main trail to Bor Lay Chan and Bor

Lay Chan II. It also allows quick and frequent access to the two major mineral licks, at

the same time far enough so as not to deter wildlife from using the licks. Anti-poaching

activities in this area should be carried out immediately, and should be visited with at

least a two-night stay every few days for the initial two months. Then random but

regular visitations can be carried out. Similar semi-permanent structures can be built at

various strategic locations in the NBCA to facilitate anti-poaching activities. This must

be accompanied by visits to local villages to explain the new activity and seek

approval for appropriate penalties, ideally approved by the village headmen or District

Governors.

• A checkpoint should be maintained on the main road from Sayaburi to Pak Lay, in

front of the NBCA’s headquarters. This checkpoint must be maintained 24 hours a

day. This road is the only vehicular route to Thailand from this province. Maintaining

this checkpoint will at least deter, if not arrest the illegal trade of timber, ‘Mai Ketsina’,

wildlife, orchids and other non-timber forest produce.

• Permanent guard posts, preferably managed by the military, should be maintained at

both ends of the North-South Security road. Once the road is completed, use of this

road should be allowed only to the authorized individuals. Motorized vehicular

movement on this road should be kept to an absolute minimum.

• A permanent guard post should also be maintained at Ban Pak Xong to monitor the

traffic in and out of the NBCA, including checking for prohibited forest produce. This

guard post will also be able to keep a check on new immigrants. Permanent guard

posts should also be maintained at the entry points into the NBCA from both Muang

Thong and Muang Pak Lay. Construction of these guard posts might probably be a

better use of funds than the new offices proposed in Muang Thong and Muang

Phieng. There is also a need for commitment from the DAFO staff in maintaining these

posts.

• Impose curfew hours from 23.00h to 05.00h to residents living in the NBCA. Entry into

the Controlled Use Zone of the NBCA (section 5.5.2.3) should only be allowed from

06.00h to 18.00h, unless with authorization.

• Domestic elephants involved in illegal logging activities in the NBCA should be

confiscated, and their owners penalized. These confiscated elephants should be

marked and released to the wild, and should never be recaptured. Radio-collars could

possibly be attached to the released animals. This would provide useful information on

habitat utilization and patterns of movement.

• Maintain the ‘Special Conservation Unit’ within the Sayaburi Provincial Army. The

objectives of this unit are to visit all the military outposts in the reserve, and collect

data on wildlife presence from interviews with the army personnel at those outposts.

The unit will also collect data on wildlife presence as they have been trained (section

3.2), en route to the outposts, and in the area surrounding the outposts. At the military

outposts, hunted animals, if any will also be recorded. Another objective of the unit is

to instruct the army personnel at those outposts to stop from further wildlife hunting,

and to provide reports of sighting of important mammal species and illegal activities in

the area. Funding is, however, needed to maintain this unit, in terms of basic field

equipment, guide books and operational costs.

5.5.2.2 Research

• Conduct wildlife surveys in the southwest area of the NBCA that could not be covered

during this survey.

• Initiate a long-term study to determine the density of elephants and gaurs in the

NBCA. This could be incorporated into a proposed nation-wide survey to determine

the status of Asian elephant in Lao PDR (Chantaviphone Inthavong, pers. comm.).

• Radio-collars should be attached to released elephants, (section 5.5.2.1) to study the

patterns of movement and habitat utilization, therefore providing management input.

• Conduct a botanical survey in the Nam Phui NBCA..

• Conduct a social anthropological study on the forest dwelling ‘Tong Learng’. Such a

study might also provide information on ethnobotany and more information on the

presence and distribution of wildlife in Nam Phui NBCA.

• Ensure the continuation of the phenological study currently being carried out near the

headquarters (section 4.1).

5.3.2.3 Zonation

• Mineral licks must be made off-limits to all except those with proper authorization. All

trails leading to the mineral licks should have ‘Restricted Area’ signboards at least 1

km away from the mineral lick. One should also be placed at the Camp Lay Chan.

These signboards will effectively stop anyone caught within the off-limits area from

claiming ignorance.

• Reject the proposal to excise the northern part of the NBCA (Berkmuller et al., 1995).

Although much of this area is degraded and converted to agriculture, there is still good

forest cover towards the western part of the proposed excision area. There are two

confirmed mineral licks in this western portion, which are being frequently used by

large mammals, particularly elephants. They are also the focus of elephant poachers.

Most importantly, any excision of the NBCA will further increase immigration into the

area and subsequently further incursion into the NBCA. This, however, will need more

attention in a follow-up study.

• Create zones within the NBCA. A proposed zoning of the NBCA following the

categories of Article 42 of the Forestry Law is shown in figure 5.1. These included a

Total Protection Zone in the core area extending north and south, along its western

borders; Controlled Use Zones towards north, and south. The terminology of the

Controlled Use Zone should be redefined to exclude logging and wildlife hunting.

• Maintain a buffer zone, perhaps with the status of a Provincial Conservation Forest,

east of the NBCA towards the NBCA’s headquarters. Large mammals recorded in this

area included tiger, sambar deer, barking deer, lesser mousedeer, wild pig, and civet

spp. Much of the forest cover in this area is still good, and could be developed for

recreation and a field training center.

5.5.2.4 General

• The NBCA must acquire basic field equipment for its field staff (see appendix III for

suggestions) to assist them in performing their tasks. Radio communication (walkie-

talkies) should also be available to the field team, should urgent contact with

headquarters or other team members become necessary.

• The NBCA’s management must maintain regular contact and open communication

with all other agencies with interests in and around the NBCA. These include the

military, district governors, DAFOs and the village headmen.

• There must be some agreed-upon commitments by the district governors and village

headmen with regard to the NBCA’s boundary and zones. Systematic process of

discussion and negotiation is needed to develop an effective and accepted set of

‘rules’ for the Controlled Use Zones and the boundary with core zones.

• Continue and improve village development and support programs. There is already

focus in the three villages (Ban Na Sampan, Ban Na Nguen, and Ban Naven) in the

northern part of the NBCA, where LSFP is already assisting in land allocation and

planning.

• There is an urgent need to carry out an aerial inspection and aerial photography to

map current habitat condition and agricultural encroachment.

• All domestic elephants in the province should be registered, possibly by bar coding

them. This system using microchip implants has been successfully tested at the

Chiang Mai Zoo, in Thailand. Records of the domestic elephants should also be

maintained. This should include the elephants’ biodata, ownership, and photographs

taken at yearly intervals.

• A Lao-speaking individual fully trained in conservation biology with a good knowledge

of forestry and wildlife laws should spend at least a two-day session in each village in

and around the NBCA. This can be incorporated with a conservation education and

public awareness program, and be made part of the NBCA management team’s

routine.

• Seek cooperation from the appropriate agencies in Thailand in preventing incursion

along western the border of the NBCA. The western boundary of the NBCA is

currently largely sealed by landmines along the mountain ridge that divides the two

countries. There are, however, plans to remove those landmines. Albeit this will foster

good relations between the two countries, it will also inevitably lead to illegal incursions

into the NBCA. In addition, cooperation is needed from Thailand to assist in curbing

the illegal trade in wildlife and other forest products from Sayaburi Province into

Thailand.

• Domestic animals should not be allowed into the Total Protection Zone of the NBCA.

Domestic animals kept at military outposts as an alternate source of protein should be

kept within those outposts. All domestic animals in the Controlled Use Zone and

around the NBCA should be inoculated against potentially dangerous diseases.

• Provide a long-term adviser to the NBCA, whose tasks include assisting the

preparation of a sound management plan; coordination of the various agencies

involved with the NBCA; coordination of programs on research, training and

management; conducting negotiations with communities in and around the NBCA;

and promotion of rural development projects in exchange for recognition and

compliance with rules, boundaries and zones.

5.6 CONCLUSIONS

The Nam Phui NBCA by virtue of its large size, intact forest, important water catchment

area and a diverse wild fauna, is an important area for biodiversity and habitat

conservation in northern Lao PDR. The populations of elephant and gaur there are most

likely viable in the long term, if given the right protection. Furthermore, mineral licks

important to many wildlife species, especially large herbivores, are fairly common in the

area. However, the integrity of the NBCA and future of its wildlife and wild habitat are

severely threatened by rapid loss of habitat and intense poaching. Although several

recommendations have been put forth, it is very important for the NBCA to acquire the

long-term assistance of a qualified adviser with the correct organizational and managerial

skills, to coordinate the various efforts towards the effective conservation of Nam Phui

NBCA.

APPENDIX I. Staff of the Nam Phui NBCA

1. Mr. Phouviang Midara (Head)*

2. Mr. Bhouvanh Thippawong (Deputy)

3. Mr. Sompetch Bounkaewvisan (Administration)**

4. Mr. Singkaew Phongthai (Technician)

5. Mr. Lake Vilaisak (Technician)

6. Mr. Oun Vilaisak (Technician)**

7. Ms. Sompetch Khampha (Technician)**

* Transferred to Provincial Forestry Department at the time of writing this report.

** Attended the classroom training at the NBCA headquarters.

APPENDIX II. List of the participants in the field training and large mammal survey at Nam

Phui NBCA.

1. Dr. Ramesh Boonratana (Instructor & Coordinator; IUCN/LSFP Consultant)

TEAM 1:

2. Mr. Khamkhoun Khounbolin (Team Leader & Supplies Coordinator; CPAWM)

3. Mr. Singkaew Phongthai (Nam Phui NBCA)

4. Mr. Outhin Saiyalath (Muang Thong District Forestry)

5. Lt. Boonsou Thongwaen (Intelligence Corps., Sayaburi Provincial Army)

6. Cpl. Khampane (Intelligence Corps., Sayaboury Provincial Army)

7. Mr. Sing Saengphet (Muong Phieng District Forestry & Ban Na Sampan Rural

Development Project)

TEAM 2:

8. Capt. Sila (Team Leader; Agricultural Products Corps., Sayaburi Provincial Army)

9. Mr. Phuataalune Sundara (CPAWM)

10. Mr. Chanthone Photitay (CPAWM)

11. Sgt. Nguen Song (Intelligence Corps., Sayaburi Provincial Army)

12. Mr. Somsay Livanhseng (Muang Phieng District Forestry)

13. Mr. Lake Vilaisak (Nam Phui NBCA)

APPENDIX III. Field equipment list

1. Backpack & daypack

2. Sleeping bag or blanket

3. Tent or hammock, mosquito net & tarpaulin

4. Binoculars

5. Compass

6. Altimeter

7. Camera & films

8. Watch

9. Maps in water-proof bags

10. Flashlight, spare batteries & bulbs

11. Notebooks, Pens & pencils

12. Measuring tape & plastic strings

13. Machete & sharpening stone

14. Field clothes & cap

15. Leech socks & insect repellant

16. Hiking shoes & slippers

17. Water canteen

18. Lighter & candles

19. Whistle

20. Personal toiletries

21. First-aid kit

22. Cooking pot, bowl, mug & spoon

APPENDIX IV. List of wild fauna recorded in and around Nam Phui NBCA

MAMMALS3

Species Lao Loum name Evidence4

Northern treeshrew (Tupaia belangeri)Bat spp.Slow loris (Nycticebus coucang)Pig-tailed macaque (Macaca nemestrina)Assamese macaque (Macaca assamensis)Phayre’s leaf monkey (Trachypithecusphayrei)White-handed gibbon (Hylobates lar)Malayan pangolin (Manis javanica)Chinese pangolin (Manis pendactyla)Black giant squirrel (Ratufa bicolor)Variable squirrel (Callosciurus finlaysonibocourti & C.f. menamicus)Burmese striped tree squirrel (Tamiopsmcclellandi)Indochinese ground squirrel (Menetesberdmorei)Red-cheeked squirrel (Dremomys rufigenis)Lesser giant flying squirrel (Petaurista elegans)Red giant flying squirrel (Petaurista petaurista)Giant flying squirrel (Petaurista philippensis)Phayre’s flying squirrel (Hylopetes phayrei)Particoloured flying squirrel (Hylopetesalboniger)Large bamboo rat (Rhizomys sumatrensis)Bay bamboo rat (Cannomys badius)Porcupine spp.Malayan porcupine (Hystrix brachyura)Bush-tailed porcupine (Atherurus macrourus )Asiatic Jackal (Canis aureus)Asian wild dog (Cuon alpinus)Bear spp.Asiatic black bear (Selarnactos thibetanus)Malayan sun bear (Helarctos malayanus)Yellow-throated marten (Martes flavigula)Hog badger (Arctonyx collaris)Common otter (Lutra lutra)Civet spp.Large Indian civet (Viverra zibetha)Small Indian civet (Viverricula indica)Common palm civet (Paradoxurushermaphroditus)Masked palm civet (Paguma larvata)Binturong (Arctictis binturong)Leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis)Golden cat (Catopuma temmincki)Clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa)Leopard (Panthera pardus)

KretairKiaLing lomLing kangLingKhaang

ThaneeLin khwaiLin nghieaDaangKerhawk

Kerhawk

Kerhawk

KerhawkBaangBaangBaangBaang

BaangOnToonMenMenHonMa chokMa naiMi

Mi maMa nai maiMoo lengNaakNghenNghen phanNghen haang kaanNghen mong

NghenMi khaw, NghenmiSua nokSua faiSua lai maekSua dao, Sua dam

SiSiReSiSiSi

VoSi, ClSi, ClSiSi

Si

Si

SiSiSiSiSi

SiSiSiSi, FeSi, FeFe, NeTrTrCl, TrReReReSiTr, DuTr, DuReReSi

SiReTrTrReTr

3 Taxonomy follows Corbet & Hill, 19924 Evidence: Si: Sighting (including, trophies, kills and in captivity); Vo: Vocalization; Tr: Tracks; Du: Dung/feces; Cl:Claw marks, Fe: Feeding signs; Ne: Nests; Ot: Other; Re: Reliable recent reports.

Tiger (Panthera tigris)Asian elephant (Elephas maximus)Wild pig (Sus scrofa)Lesser mousedeer (Tragulus javanicus)Barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak)Sambar deer (Cervus unicolor)Gaur (Bos gaurus)Serow (Capricornis sumatrensis)

Sua khongSaangMu paKaaiFaanKuangMeuy, KathingNyearng pha

TrSi, Du, Tr, FeSi, Tr, Ne, FeSi, Tr,Si, Vo, Tr,Du,Si, Tr, DuTr, DuTr, Du

BIRDS5

Species EvidenceChinese pond heron (Ardeola bacchus)Little heron (Butorides striatus)Black-shouldered kite (Elanus caeruleus)Silver pheasant (Lophura nycthemera)Siamese fireback (Lophura diardii)Red jungle fowl (Gallus gallus)Grey peacock-pheasant (Polypectron bicalcaratum)Crested argus (Rheinardia ocellata)Scaly-breasted partridge (Aborophilia cambodiana)White-breasted waterhen (Amaurornis phoenicurus)Thick-billed pigeon (Treron curvirostra)Mountain imperial pigeon (Ducula badia)Barred cuckoo-dove (Macropygia unchall)Emerald dove (Chalcophaps indica)Vernal hanging parrot (Loriculus vernalis)Indian cuckoo (Cuculus micropterus)Green-billed malkoha (Phaenicophaeus tristis)Coral-billed gound-cuckoo (Carpococcyx renauldi)Greater coucal (Centropus sinensis)Lesser coucal (Centropus bengalensis)Asian barred owlet (Glaucidium cuculoides)Blue-eared kingfisher (Alcedo meninting)Banded kingfisher (Lacedo pulchella)White-throated kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis)Black-capped kingfisher (Halcyon pileata)Indian roller (Coracias benghalensis)Dollarbird (Eurystomus orientalis)Brown hornbill (Ptilolaemus tickelli)Oriental pied hornbill (Anthracoceros albirostris)Great hornbill (Buceros bicornis)Great barbet (Megalaima virens)Moustached barbet (Megalaima incognita)Coppersmith barbet (Megalaima haemacephala)Lesser yellownape (Picus chlorolophus)Rufous woodpecker (Celeus brachyurus)Asian palm swift (Cypsiurus balasiensis)Richard’s pipit (Anthus novaeseelandiae)Grey wagtail (Motacilla alba)Scarlet minivet (Pericrocotus flammeus)Black-crested bulbul (Pycnonotus melanicterus)Red-whiskered bulbul (Pycnonotus jocosus)Flavescent bulbul (Pycnonotus flavescens)Puff-throated bulbul (Criniger pallidus)Black drongo (Dicrurus macrocercus)Bronzed drongo (Dicrurus aeneus)

SiSiSiSiSiSi, VoSiVoSi, VoSiSiSi, VoSiSiSiSi, VoSiSiSi, VoSi, VoSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSi, VoSi, VoReSi, VoSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSi

5 Taxonomy follows Lekagul & Round, 1991.

Lesser racket-tailed drongo (Dicrurus remifer)Hair-crested drongo (Dicrurus hottentottus)Greater racket-tailed drongo (Dicrurus paradiseus)Black-naped oriole (Oriolus chinensis)Maroon oriole (Oriolus traillii)Sultan tit (Melanochlora sultanea)Velvet-fronted nuthatch (Sitta frontalis)White-crested laughing thrush (Garrulax strepitans)Common tailorbird (Orthotomus sutorius)Oriental magpie-robin (Copsychus saularis)White-rumped shama (Copsychus malabaricus)Slaty-backed forktail (Enicurus schistaceus)White-crowned forktail (Enicurus leschenaulti)Pied bushchat (Saxicola caprata)White-throated fantail (Rhipidura albicollis)Asian paradise flycatcher (Terpsiphone paradisi)Ashy wood-swallow (Artamus fuscus)Hill myna (Gracula religiosa)

SiSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSi

REPTILESSpecies EvidenceGekko spp.Tokay gecko (Gekko gecko)Indochinese water dragon (Calotes versicolor)Skink spp.Yellow tree monitor (Varanus bengalensis)Water monitor (Varanus salvator)Python spp.Reticulated python (Morelia reticulatus)Banded krait (Bungarus fasciatus)Cobra spp.King cobra (Ophiophagus hannah)Iridescent earth snake (Xenopeltis unicolor)White-lipped pit viper (Trimeresurus albolabris albolabris)Yellow tortoise (Testudo elongata)Common Siamese soft-shelled turtle (Trionyx cartilageneus)

Si, VoSiSiSiSiSiReSiSiReSiSiSiSiSi

AMPHIBIANSSpecies EvidenceRana alticolaAsian treefrog (Rhacophorus nigropalmatus)Lao bullfrog (family: Ranidae)

SiSiSi

FISHES6

Species Lao Loumname

Evidence

Common climbing perch (Anabas tetsudineus)Round-tailed garfish (Xenentodon canciloides)?Batrachian walking catfish (Clarias batrachus)(Poropontius deauratus)(Taxotes chatareus)??Hoven’s slender carp (Leptobarbus hoeveni)(Monotreta sp.)

Pla khingPla sa-thongPla dookPla chaatPla momPla thaoPla phungPla pao

SiSiSiSiSiSiSiSi

6 Species subject to confirmation, as list was prepared based on Lao names

(Channa orientalis) (Bagarius sp.) (Achiroides sp.)? (Mastacembulus sp.) (Danio sp. or Esomus sp.or Rasbora sp.)? (Hypsibarbus sp.) (Thynnichtys thrnnoides)? (Chitala lopis) Snakehead (Channa marulius)? (Sikukia gudgeri)? (Xenentodon cancila or Hyporhamphus limbatus) ?

Pla kangPla khaePla phanPla laatPla sieuPla paakPla khomPla tongPla kouanPla maamPla chat-thong

SiSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSiSi

REFERENCES

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Planning and management in Lao PDR: Status Report to mid-1995. IUCN/LSFP

Unpublished report, Vientiane.

Corbet, G.B. and J.E. Hill. 1992. The Mammals of the IndoMalayan Region: A Syetematic

Review. Oxford University Press, New York.

IUCN, 1996. 1996 IUCN Red List of Threatened Animals. IUCN, Gland, Switzerland.

Lekagul, B. and P.D. Round. 1991. A Guide to the Birds of Thailand. Saha Karn Bhaet

Co., Ltd. Bangkok, Thailand.

Salter, R.E. (compiler). 1993. Wildlife in Lao PDR. A Status Report. IUCN, Vientiane, Lao

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