Predator-prey co-occurrence: defining a management plan for a newly established protected area in central Myanmar

Protected areas (PAs) have an important role in biodiversity conservation, protecting wildlife habitats and mitigating wildlife population decline. Over the past decade, Myanmar, which is part of the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot, has expanded its number of PAs, preserving substantial portions of the remaining natural habitat. Unfortunately, comprehensive data on the biodiversity status of most newly established PAs is lacking. In this study, we estimated the occurrence of predators and photographic capture rates of prey in North Zarmari Wildlife Sanctuary, a recently established PA situated in the Bago Yoma Range of central Myanmar, to provide data for its management plan development. A camera trap survey conducted between March and June 2020 at 63 grid cells (4 × 4 km2) recorded 25 mammal species, including Critically Endangered and Endangered prey and predators, and illegal activities such as illicit hunting and logging. Leopard (Panthera pardus) occurrence was positively influenced (AUC of 0.92) by the presence of primates and wild pigs. Bears showed a preference for areas surrounding human settlements, perhaps due to the availability of food related to human activities. Small carnivores were also affected by human disturbances. Despite evidence of low protection and high human disturbance, our results suggest a notably rich diversity of both prey and predator species within the area. The occurrence of species was impacted by a combination of factors, including habitat type and the level of human disturbance. Additionally, many species appeared to be affected by their proximity to the forest edge and human settlements. Therefore, the success of future conservation efforts hinges on the implementation of well-informed management action, underscored by a thorough understanding of the distribution and interplay among key wildlife species. This entails addressing relevant threats, as well as understanding the species’ interactions with environmental factors at play within their habitats.