The clouded leopard, a medium-sized wild cat, has been eradicated from Taiwan. Recent research shows that the island is still ideal for returning this species

Description

The clouded leopard, a medium-sized wild cat, has been eradicated from Taiwan. Recent research shows that the island is still ideal for returning this species. Approximately 38% of Taiwan's area could be suitable habitat for the clouded leopard. Notably, 46% of the appropriate habitat is currently protected.

About The Clouded Leopard

The clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa) is native to South and Southeast Asia. It is under several dangers, including habitat loss, prey depletion, and poaching. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies it as 'vulnerable'.

Reasons For Extinction In Taiwan

The clouded leopard once thrived on the island of Formosa. Several factors contributed to the species' extinction in Taiwan-

• Poaching: Illegal hunting for pelts was common, particularly during Japanese administration (1895-1945).

• Habitat Destruction: Deforestation has reduced its natural habitat.

• Prey Elimination: The loss of its natural prey accelerated its decline.

A camera-trap survey undertaken from 1997 to 2012 discovered no sign of clouded leopards in Taiwan, confirming their extinction decades ago.

Current Habitat Suitability

Despite the disappearance of the clouded leopard, new research indicate that Taiwan's animal numbers are recovering. Increased forest cover and a hunting restriction enacted in the 1970s have aided this rebound. Researchers discovered that 38% of Taiwan's landmass, mainly in the mountainous parts, is moderately to very appropriate for the clouded leopard.

Reintroduction Efforts

Plans to reintroduce the clouded leopard to Taiwan are now ongoing. The program is led by the Taiwanese Clouded Leopard Association, which is supported by foreign scientists and conservation agencies. The goal is to reestablish the Formosan Clouded Leopard population.

Research Methodology

The current study used a multi-scale, multivariate habitat selection model. This algorithm predicted suitable habitats in Taiwan by analyzing presence-absence data from camera-trap surveys across the clouded leopard's current range.

Geographic And Ecological Overview

Taiwan, with an area of 36,000 square kilometers, is a harsh and mountainous island. It has a varied range of habitats, including tropical forests and alpine grasslands. More over 60% of the island is classed as forest, with continuous woodland continuing in the uplands.

Findings On Suitable Habitat

The researchers identified a huge, continuous area of 13,854 square kilometers in Taiwan's hilly and mountainous regions that is appropriate for the clouded leopard. This includes-

• The habitat is moderately suitable, covering 10,041 square kilometers.

• The habitat is highly suitable, covering 3,813 square kilometers.

• The study suggests that Taiwan's extensive habitat protection and minimal hunting pressure make it a feasible location for the clouded leopard reintroduction program.

Welcome to Notopedia.com, your comprehensive and free online education resource that covers a vast array of competitive exams and government job opportunities in India. We understand the importance of excelling in sarkari exams, such as UPSC, IBPS, and SSC CGL, SSC CHSL which serve as gateways to esteemed government positions. Our platform offers detailed insights into exam patterns, syllabus, and previous year question papers for various exams, including NEET, JEE, CAT, CLAT, GATE and more. Whether you're preparing for banking exams like IBPS, SBI, railway recruitment or railway exams like RRB, or seeking admission to top-notch MBA and law programs, Notopedia provides you with a wealth of free study materials, mock tests, online test series and expert guidance. Stay up-to-date with the latest exam dates, results, and admit cards for exams like JEE Main, UGC NET, and CET. As you embark on your educational journey, make Notopedia your go-to destination for free mock tests, comprehensive resources, and the latest updates on sarkari results, government job vacancies, and competitive exams. Empower your learning with Notopedia and achieve your academic and career aspirations with confidence.

For more Updates and Information - Visit Notopedia's Bulletin Board

For Latest Sarkari Jobs - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Jobs Section

For access to more than 20,000 Colleges - Visit Notopedia's College Section

For School Studies and Exams Preparation across 14 Boards - Visit Notopedia's School Section

For Comprehensive Preparation of Sarkari Job Exams - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Exams Section

For Comprehensive Preparation of Competitive Exams - Visit Notopedia's College Entrance Exams Section