Wildlife Monitoring Techniques and Participatory Conservation at Nakai - Nam Theun NBCA

IUCN
Wildlife Conservation Society The World Conservation Union

NAKAI – NAM THEUN
CONSERVATION PROJECT [PHASE 2]:
Wildlife Monitoring Techniques

and Participatory Conservation at
Nakai - Nam Theun NBCA
Ramesh Boonratana, PhD.

November1998
Nakai – Nam Theun Conservation Project [Phase 2]: Wildlife Monitoring Techniques and Participatory Conservation 2
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
A month-long training exercise in wildlife monitoring techniques and participatory

conservation was carried out at Nakai – Nam Theun National Biodiversity Conservation Area
in November 1998. The training was conducted both in the classroom and in the field.
Participants comprised the NBCA staff, District Police, Provincial Border Police, and the
‘guardian’ village monitoring units.
The classroom training lasting a week, first prepared the trainees for the field, and comprised
fundamentals on conservation; the use of maps and compass; wildlife survey and data
collection techniques; and report-writing. This was followed by a three-week on-the-job
training. In the field, trainees carried out surveys for wildlife and human/habitat impacts,
applying techniques learnt during the initial theory training. Briefings were conducted nightly
to review findings and trainees’ performance for the day, and prepare them for following day.
These briefings proved quite effective in monitoring the trainees’ progress, and for the
trainees to realize their weaknesses, therefore allowing opportunities to improve themselves.
Wildlife survey techniques taught and employed during this exercise involved the use of
teams comprising three participants each, operating from a single base camp. The teams
would conduct surveys along different routes, pre-determined from 1:100,000 topographic
maps. Patrol surveys were carried out along existing trails, particularly along ridges and
waterways, usually taking the shape of irregular loops, originating and ending at base camps,
therefore allowing a greater coverage of the area. Several of the trails were replicated as the
emphasis of this exercise was on training.
They are, however, still in need of frequent reinforcement and supervision to maximize their
efforts in the field, and be able to collect quality data. Furthermore, there are many skills
learnt during the exercise that still needed strengthening and continued practice, such as the
use of map and compass, wildlife observations and surveys, and data analysis. Similar on-the-
job training should be conducted at least once a year, preferably twice, for three consecutive
years in order to groom a fully qualified and effective patrolling team.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I would like to acknowledge all those who have facilitated this training exercise and
contributed to its success. They include Mr. Stuart Chape and Mr. John Baker of IUCN, Mr.
William Robichaud and Mr. Troy Hansel of WCS, Mr. Xanesay Souryakane and Mr.
Soulisack of CPAWM, Mr. Intong and staff of Nakai – Nam Theun NBCA, the participants
of this exercise and the villagers of Ban Sop-on, Ban Makfueng, Ban Tong, Ban Teung and
Ban Maka.
Ramesh Boonratana, Ph.D.

aka Zimbo
CONTENTS
1EXECUTIVE SUMMARY......................................................................................................................................................................2
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS......................................................................................................................................................................3
CONTENTS...........................................................................................................................................................................................4
INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................................................................................................5
BACKGROUND .........................................................................................................................................................................5
OBJECTIVES .............................................................................................................................................................................5
OUTPUTS ..................................................................................................................................................................................5
TRAINING .............................................................................................................................................................................................7
Table 1.--Topics of classroom training................................................................................................................................... 11
Table 2.--List of trainees......................................................................................................................................................... 12
RESULTS ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
GENERAL ASSESSMENT....................................................................................................................................................... 17
CONCLUDING DISCUSSION............................................................................................................................................................ 18
REFERENCES.................................................................................................................................................................................... 20
APPENDIX Ia: Wildlife Data Recording Format................................................................................................................................. 21
APPENDIX Ib: Wildlife Data Recording Format (in Lao) ................................................................................................................... 22
APPENDIX IIa: Human Impact Data Recording Format ................................................................................................................... 23
APPENDIX IIb: Human Impact Data Recording Format (in Lao)...................................................................................................... 24
APPENDIX IIIa: Trail Mapping Recording Format............................................................................................................................. 25
APPENDIX IIIb: Trail Mapping Recording Format (in Lao) ............................................................................................................... 26
APPENDIX IVa: Key Wildlife and Habitat Interview Data Recording Format.................................................................................... 27
APPENDIX IVb: Key Wildlife and Habitat Interview Data Recording Format (in Lao) ...................................................................... 28
APPENDIX V: Sample Specimen Recording Format ........................................................................................................................ 29
APPENDIX VI: Procedures for Making Casts of Tracks.................................................................................................................... 30
APPENDIX VII: Ethics of Field Surveys and Patrols.......................................................................................................................... 31
APPENDIX VIII: Locations and Preparation of Camps...................................................................................................................... 32
APPENDIX IX: List of Field Equipment .............................................................................................................................................. 33
APPENDIX X: Summary of Wildlife Recorded................................................................................................................................... 34
APPENDIX XI: Summarized Observations on Human/Habitat Impacts............................................................................................ 39
APPENDIX XII: Schedule of Activities ............................................................................................................................................... 40
INTRODUCTION
BACKGROUND
Nakai – Nam Theun NBCA1, measuring 3,445 km², located between 17°34’ – 18°23’N and
105°02’ – 105°46’, lies in Khammouane and Bolikhamsay Provinces. Surveys have shown
that this NBCA has a high and unique diversity and density of wildlife. Several species of
global importance are found here (e.g., saola, large-antlered muntjac, elephant, gaur, tiger,
and Douc langur). Furthermore, the Nakai – Nam Theun NBCA links together a few
protected areas in both Lao PDR and SR of Vietnam, forming one very large contiguous tract
of forested area.
The long-term goals of any protected area can only be realized through an effective
management plan, which incorporates the effective management of its wildlife, habitat and
the people who uses it. Surveys, patrols and monitoring are important field-based
management activities that must be carried out by the NBCA staff to ensure the conservation,
protection, and sustainability of the natural resources. Thus, as part of the long-term objective
to strengthen the management of Nakai – Nam Theun NBCA, it is important to impart
training in field conservation techniques to the NBCA staff.
Nakai – Nam Theun NBCA is a large area with several villages lying in and around it.
Furthermore, the NBCA shares a 220 km border with Vietnam. Hence, active cooperation is
needed between the NBCA staff, the Provincial Border Police who is responsible for the
security of the Lao-Vietnam border, and the villagers who have personal stakes in the area.
The successful conservation of natural resources in the Nakai – Nam Theun NBCA is
dependent upon significant local participation in conservation and management efforts. Thus,
the primary goal of this training is to establish a working understanding of wildlife
monitoring techniques and participatory conservation activities among the project staff and
representatives of relevant agencies and guardian villages. Guardian villages are those
villages playing an active role in monitoring and are responsible for following conservation
guidelines in their respective areas.
OBJECTIVES
1. Strengthen working knowledge of wildlife monitoring methods and techniques among
selected project staff and representatives of relevant agencies and guardian villages.
2. Establish necessary monitoring and patrolling plans and systems with members of the
village monitoring unit in two guardian villages.
3. Conduct supervised monitoring trips in these two guardian villages.
4. Train project staff to establish similar plans and systems with VMUs2 in other guardian
villages.
OUTPUTS
1. Monitoring capabilities among trainees.
1
NBCA = National Biodiversity Conservation Area
2
VMU = village monitoring unit
2. Village monitoring and patrolling plans and systems in two guardian villages.
3. Project staff ability to establish similar monitoring and patrolling plans and systems with
other guardian villages.
4. Report summarizing the training.
TRAINING
Training was carried out both in the classroom and in the field from December 1-30, 1998
inclusive, and was designed to train the project staff and some representatives from relevant
agencies and guardian villages. Carried out in the Lao language, the training primarily
focussed on developing the participants’ skills in:
1. Conducting field surveys for large mammals and key wildlife habitats.
2. Observing and assessing human impacts on wildlife and habitat.
3. Recording and reporting data collected on wildlife and human impacts into a standardized
user-friendly format.
4. Planning areas and routes for human/habitat impact patrolling and biodiversity resource
monitoring.
The above training activities can be summarized into data collection, data compilation, and
data analysis. Besides these, training topics also include basics of conservation, map reading
and compass use, camping and field equipment (table 1). The training was so designed to
assist the field staff in planning their field trips efficiently, to make accurate observations and
record these accurately, and to clearly report their findings in a simple but detailed format.
Participants comprised the NBCA’s patrolling and monitoring staff, members of the
Provincial Border Police and Nakai District Police, and the VMUs of three guardian villages
(table 2).
The training began with a seven-day ‘classroom’ training carried out at the NBCA’s
headquarters (17°42’24”N/105°08’32”E) at Hua Phoo, Muang Nakai (figure 1). This was to
prepare the participants for the ‘on-the-job’ field training activities. Briefly, the classroom
training topics comprised the following:
• Basics of Conservation: The classroom training began with brief lectures and discussion
on protected areas, wildlife conservation, conservation biology and wildlife ecology and
behavior. This was to give the trainees a better understanding the objectives of the
protected area, and the need of reliable and relevant information towards effectively
managing species and protected areas. In addition, a simple understanding of wildlife
ecology and behavior was to assist them in recording observations in the field.
• Map and Compass: This was followed by detailed lessons in the use of maps and
compasses. Competence in map and compass use is the basis to an effective field
management of any protected area. Lessons in map reading included understanding the
map’s description, details, directions, distances and designations. Lessons in compass use
were mainly on taking accurate bearings and determining back-bearings, followed by the
use of compass together with maps. Trainees were also given exercises and assignments
to improve their map and compass skills, and an orienteering walk to improve their
compass use.
• Recording Techniques: Lessons in making observations and recording evidence in the
field, including identifying tracks and other wildlife signs were then imparted to the
trainees. These also included the use of field guides to mammals, birds, and mammal
tracks. Detailed note taking was emphasized throughout the training. The presence of all
wildlife species observed and human activities were recorded into data sheets (appendices
I & II). These data recording sheets or similar ones are currently in used at Dong Hua
Sao, Phou Xiang Thong, Phou Xang He and Nam Poui NBCAs (Boonratana, 1988a & b).
Trainees were also instructed to sketch unidentified wildlife species, tracks, etc., and take
measurements or estimate their sizes in the case of wildlife species sighting. There was
also an emphasis on the collection of specimens (appendix V) whenever opportunity
arose. This included collection of scats for later analysis, hair samples, skulls from dead
animals and making plaster casts of tracks (appendix VI). Specimens collected would
serve as important references, and as displays to impart conservation education and public
awareness.
• Wildlife Observation: Only a single method of wildlife survey based on animal presence
through actual sighting and based on indirect evidence, was imparted to the trainees. This
method based primarily on diurnal surveys, and carried out along existing wildlife trails is
fairly practical - simple to understand and carry out, and less time-consuming.
Furthermore, it can easily be carried out and does not require much equipment. Although
a few wildlife surveys have been carried out, the NBCA is still in need of more data on
wildlife presence and distribution. Such information provides important and useful input
towards managing a protected area. To improve the quality of data collected during
wildlife surveys, trainees were taught how to identify species and cross-refer to field
guides. Lessons on identifying and recognizing wildlife based on indirect evidence
(tracks, scats, etc.) were emphasized. It is relatively difficult to sight wildlife in dense
tropical forests, hence data are mostly gathered from signs. There was also a brief
discussion on the ethics of fieldwork (appendix VII).
• Camping and Field Equipment: Preparation and location of campsites (appendix VIII),
essential field equipment (appendix IX), and suggested food items for the field were
discussed in detail. Much field time would otherwise be wasted if there were no proper
planning and adequate preparation prior to field surveys.
• Data Analysis and Reporting: After the field trip, data collected were compiled and a
simple report was prepared. The report comprised a summarized table of wildlife
recorded, a summarized table for human activities recorded, map/maps for important
sighting of wildlife, routes traveled, human activities, mineral licks, etc., and a written
report briefly highlighting significant finds, and the team’s suggestions/comments. This
report-writing format was to be maintained for future surveys and patrols. This format is
currently being used by the field staff at Dong Hua Sao, Phou Xiang Thong, Phou Xang
He and Nam Poui NBCAs (Boonratana, 1988a & b).
• Surveys, Patrols, and Monitoring: Repeated surveys and patrols for an area was
emphasized to the trainees. Once initial data is collected, there should be a program of
continuous collection of data to see changes, if any, in terms of wildlife presence and
relative abundance, habitat changes and human activity. Monitoring is an important
component for making management decisions. A discussion was also held on the criteria
to assist the trainees in identifying key species
Following the classroom training was a three-week ‘on-the-job’ training in the field.
Activities included:
• Logistics Preparations and Allocation of Responsibilities: Participants were divided into
teams of three persons. Care was also taken to ascertain that teams were of similar, if not
equal strengths. Team members comprised at least one member from the NBCA, police
and VMU to promote teamwork and cooperation between individuals and stakeholders. A
briefing was held before the field trip during which responsibilities were issued and
objectives clarified. Supplies’ coordinators were responsible of purchasing, preparing,

and maintaining food and equipment. Team leaders were responsible for the team’s and
team members’ equipment, planning survey routes, and submission of reports.
• Daily Trip Preparations: Survey routes were pre-determined from 1:100,000 topographic
maps and/or based on existing trails. Routes normally followed existing wildlife trails,
and these took the shape of irregular loops, originating and terminating at base camps.
This allowed greater coverage of an area. Simpler routes, going along streams and
returning the same way were given to trainees that had no prior experience with forest
work. One team, on a rotational basis, usually stayed back at camp and were given the
tasks of maintaining camps, preparing food, gathering firewood, etc.
• Observations and Recording: Wildlife presence was recorded based on sightings or other
evidence (tracks, scats, vocalizations, etc. – see appendix I). No trapping was carried out.
Surveys were carried out on foot, along existing tracks and trails, particularly along ridges
and waterways. Using animal trails have been observed to be effective in covering large
areas in tropical rainforests (Boonratana, 1997a & b; 1988a & b). 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. During patrol surveys, team members would
simultaneously search for evidence of wildlife. Speed of travel when carrying out patrols
was maintained between 40 to 60 minutes for every kilometer, with regular pauses of at
least a minute, to observe the general surroundings. This was to avoid missing cryptic
animals or animal signs. Thus, up to an average of eight kilometers per day was covered
on each route by each team. Surveys usually began between 0700 to 0730h and teams
returned to camp between 1530 to 1700h. Type of evidence was recorded, along with
date, time, species, and location (appendix I). Evidence such as tracks and scats were
aged, described, sketched and measured. Scats were collected and were later analyzed by
the trainees. Locations of important sightings were determined using maps and compass,
and where feasible, a Global Positioning System (GPS) unit was used. Important
sightings included the presence of key species, mineral licks, unmapped ponds or
wetlands, and human activities. Observations on human activities were also recorded onto
data recording sheets (appendix II).
• Daily Debriefing: In the field, debriefing was conducted every night after meals. This was
to review the day’s findings and plan surveys for the next day. Survey teams would report
the results of surveys, highlighting the main findings. Team members would alternate on
a daily basis in reporting their findings, to encourage participation by all. Comments and
suggestions were offered to improve their field performance and skills.
• VMU Monitoring and Patrolling: A system to monitor natural resources and patrol the
NBCA was established in two guardian villages, Ban Makfueng and Ban Maka. This was
also carried out as an exercise in planning, involving all trainees, to encourage active
participation by all. At Ban Maka, members of the Provincial Border Police were invited
to participate in the discussions and planning. Furthermore, this exercise provided 'hands-
on' training to the NBCA staff in planning out similar monitoring and patrolling systems
in other guardian villages.
NOTE: Although originally planned for two guardian villages, field surveys could not be
carried out in Ban Maka, due to the weather situation, strong winds and rains, and fast-
flowing swollen rivers. The participants arrived in Ban Maka on the second day that Typhoon
Elvis crossed the Annamites, and escaped from the area by the fourth day as the weather
worsen. Hence this period was spent on training the participants in data compilation and
analysis. Surveys were, however, carried out all along the way to and from Ban Maka.
Table 1.--Topics of classroom training
MAJOR TOPICS SKILLS/SUB-TOPICS

Conservation basics Protected areas;
Wildlife conservation;
Conservation biology;
Wildlife ecology & animal behavior.
Map & Compass Types and purposes of maps;
Information from maps: description, details, directions, distances
& designations;
Description: map no., edition & location;
Details: colors; vegetation types, drainage & landform features;
Directions: bearings & location determination;
Distances: map scale, linear & non-linear distances;
Designations: names & significance;
Best routes of travel & feasible camp locations;
Types & purposes of compasses;
Taking compass bearings & determining back-bearings;
Assignments & exercises.
Recording Techniques Note-taking, sketches & measurements;
Wildlife & human activity data recording sheets;
Hunter/villager interviews;
Trail mapping;
Photography;
Specimen collection: plaster casts (tracks), scat, skulls, snares,
traps, etc;
Assignments & exercises.
Wildlife Observation Presence/absence;
Survey routes;
Identifying species & using field guides;
Indirect evidence: tracks, scats, vocalization, scrapes, etc;
Speed of travel & precautionary measures;
Camping & Field Ideal locations & set-up;
Equipment Field equipment list & significance;
Pre-survey preparations.
Data compilation & Tabulation of wildlife data & human activities;
Report-writing Maps for routes traveled, important sightings: wildlife, human
activities, mineral licks, etc;
Scat analysis;
Highlights of significant finds.
Miscellaneous Patrolling, monitoring & law enforcement;
Videos on wildlife.
Table 2.--List of trainees
NAME AGENCY/VILLAGE
Vanhmala Nakai – Nam Theun NBCA
Sonlawon Nakai – Nam Theun NBCA
Saipanya Nakai – Nam Theun NBCA
Vissaya Nakai – Nam Theun NBCA
Sila Provincial Border Police (based at Ban Maka Nua)
Saengmanee Provincial Border Police (based at Ban Maka Nua)
Putthai Nakai District Police
Serth Nakai District Police
Bounsom* Headman, Ban Thamouang
Nang* Militia, Ban Thamouang
Tang* Militia, Ban Thamouang
Thongdam** Deputy Headman, Ban Maka Nua, Militia & member of VMU
It** Militia, Ban Maka Kraang & member of VMU
Siangkang Deputy Headman, Ban Makfueng
Duang Head of Militia, Ban Makfueng & Head of VMU
Bounsom*** Militia, Ban Makfueng & member of VMU
Phouang*** Militia, Ban Makfueng & member of VMU
Siangphan*** Militia, Ban Makfueng & member of VMU
*Participated until Nov. 16
**Participated until Nov. 21
***Did not attend the classroom training.
The trainees at Camp Houay Tong.
Classroom training at the NBCA’s headquarters.

Trainees recording and measuring tiger scrapes.
Trainees preparing plaster cast of a tiger track.

Law enforcement activities – a Vietnamese trader

with monkey bones and porcupines’ stomachs.
Escaping Typhoon Elvis.

RESULTS
Interest and attitude towards field activities, and skills in field techniques, knowledge
concerning protected areas and conservation of natural resources varied considerably among
the trainees. This was a reflection of their background and qualification.
• Basics of Conservation: Prior to this training, the trainees did not truly understand the
objectives and concepts of protected area, protected area management and conservation of
natural resources. Hence, basics of conservation were emphasized throughout the training
exercise, beginning with discussions at the start of the training and regularly discussing
them during daily debriefings in the field; thereby reinforcing their understanding based
on actual field experience. Books on wildlife, mammal tracks, and the Forestry Law were
also distributed to the trainees. In addition, videos on wildlife were shown in the evening.
• Map and Compass: Similarly, map and compass ability were initially almost non-existent.
One trainee, Mr. Bounsom of the Ban Thamuoang VMU, was however familiar with their
use as he had received some training when he was a member of the armed forces. Lessons
in map and compass were continued until the trainees were ready to move on to different
topics. The better trainees were placed besides the weaker ones to provide more practice
for the former and provide better attention to the latter. Orienteering exercises conducted
at the NBCA headquarters greatly helped the trainees in improving their compass skills.
• Data Collection and Report Write-up: Initially, none were adept at recording information,
making wildlife observations, analyzing data and writing reports. Skills at correct
recording of information and wildlife observation could only be achieved under constant
guidance, by having the instructor accompanying the survey teams daily. Daily
debriefings further reinforce their recording skills. To familiarize the trainees and give
them the much-needed practice, each team had to analyze their data and submit their
reports. Guidance was offered and several corrections were made before the reports were
finally accepted.
• VMU Monitoring and Patrolling: A monitoring and patrolling system was established for
the VMUs in Ban Makfueng. This involved 3-6 members of the VMU over a period of 3-
5 days a month (Note: five days a month was the maximum that any member of the VMU
could commit in a single month due to other commitments). Routes and areas to be
monitored and patrolled were selected on the basis of feasibility, their important to key
wildlife, and within or adjacent to the village's area of responsibility. Routes selected had
all been surveyed during the 'on-the-job' training. Monitoring plans for Ban Makfueng
endorsed by the head of the NBCA's patrolling and monitoring unit and the head of the
VMU are available both at the NBCA headquarters and with the VMU of Ban Makfueng.
Although the area around Ban Maka was not surveyed during this exercise, a monitoring
system was nevertheless established. The Provincial Border Police based at Ban Maka
together with the village militia, who are also members of the VMU, conduct 'security'
patrols regularly. This range from a day to a week per trip. To establish a monitoring and
patrolling system for the VMU of Ban Maka would therefore conflict with the security
patrols. Rather, it was suggested that the VMU/village militia and the trainees from the
Provincial Border Police carry out wildlife and habitat monitoring and patrolling in
conjunction with the security patrols. It was also suggested to the trainees from the
Provincial Border Police that they impart the knowledge acquired on this training to their
colleagues, therefore increasing conservation efforts in Nakai - Nam Theun NBCA. Also,
in both Ban Makfueng and Ban Maka, trainees were requested to record their information
on the forms provided.
The classroom training, however, proceeded extremely slowly and some skills could not be
imparted at all. This was due to the wide gap in educational background of the trainees,
particularly between the NBCA staff and members of the VMU. Furthermore, one participant
was illiterate and a few others were semi-illiterate. In view of this, several topics had to be
adapted to suit the villagers. Hence, not all skills could be imparted to the NBCA staff. Some
skills (e.g., trail mapping and village interviews) were opportunistically imparted only to the
NBCA staff (appendices III and IV). In spite of the gap in educational background, yet
cooperation and teamwork amongst the participants was good. In the field, skills and
knowledge of the NBCA staff, the police, and the VMU were complementary to one another,
and yielded information on wildlife and human impacts, summarized in appendices X and XI.
On a positive side, the training and participatory conservation resulted in the voluntary
closure of traps and snares by Mr. Siangkaang, the deputy headman of Ban Makfueng village.
Mr. Siangkaang was also a participant on this training exercise.
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
During the classroom session, most of the villagers did not participate in the discussions and
were reluctant to ask questions. Most trainees became more interested in the training during
the field trip, when they realized the need to fully understand the theory to carry out their
surveys well, and when everyone was more familiar with one another. Although important,
not all aspects of map and compass use were imparted to the trainees. Only skills needed for
them to perform their tasks well were imparted. After training, all trainees were able to
distinguish vegetation types and drainage features, but distinguishing landform features was
limited to a few NBCA staff.
In the field, the trainees worked together quite well, showing good cooperation and division
of labor. All, in particular the villagers, were fairly adept at observing wildlife and its signs.
Use of field guides for identification purposes was still weak. Note taking, sketching and
measuring specimens improved with time, although sometimes lacking in important details.
Briefings carried out every night in the field apparently proved quite effective in allowing the
trainees to improve their performance. The survey teams when accompanied by the instructor
serve to reinforce their training, particularly when applying techniques learnt in the classroom
to field situations. In addition, it allowed doubts and questions that usually arose during the
daily patrols to be immediately resolved. Furthermore, several field techniques such as
detecting and identifying wildlife signs, and orienteering could only be clarified under field
conditions.
It is still uncertain whether the NBCA staff is able to establish similar monitoring and
patrolling plans and systems with other guardian villages, as there was no opportunity for
them to attempt it unguided during this exercise. Thus, the NBCA staff should attempt to plan
a monitoring and patrolling system in a guardian village, and this ought to be reviewed before
and after its implementation to assess the staff's ability.
CONCLUDING DISCUSSION
Information gathered during surveys comprise not only observations on wildlife, but also on
human activity and habitat condition. Systematic gathering data in this format provides
essential information needed before assessments regarding wildlife and human impacts can
be made. Monitoring of wildlife and their signs present in an area, in the long term provide
basic ecological information on behavior, distribution, activity and ranging patterns. Data on
important components of wildlife habitat in terms of its condition, vegetation type, critical
habitat features (nesting grounds, mineral licks, water holes, lakes and ponds), provide
information on influencing factors that affect species’ survival, abundance and distribution.
In addition, data on locations of wildlife observations provide information on key wildlife
habitats. All this information gathered over time when correlated to ecological factors and
human activity will assist in making correct management decisions.
Ideally, the field training should be carried out over a period of several weeks, with at least
three field trips, each lasting about a week, followed by three days of data compilation and
analysis, and report writing after every trip. Prolonged and repeated on-the-job field training
is possibly the only way to equip protected area and associated conservation staff with the
basic skills and experience required to implement field management activities (Boonratana,
1997b; 1998a & b). However, given the short duration of this training exercise, it is now up
to the NBCA staff to provide the necessary leadership and motivation to the VMUs. In
addition, it is important that all the trainees translate the skills acquired into meaningful
activities, carrying forward the processes initiated during this exercise.
Equally important is for the NBCA staff to carry out activities suggested to them at the end of
the training session. These included:
• Maintaining master maps of the NBCA showing:
1. major trails in the NBCA;
2. locations of key wildlife species (e.g., tiger, leopard, clouded leopard, gaur, banteng,
saola, giant muntjac, gibbon and Douc langur);
3. locations of key wildlife habitats (e.g., mineral licks and ponds).
• Data collected should be compiled, analyzed and the report written up immediately after
every field trip to avoid unnecessary delays in report submission, and while the
impression is still ‘fresh’. Furthermore, there should be a filing system which include
maintaining separate files for wildlife data sheets, human/habitat impact data sheets, and
trip reports.
• Specimens (plaster casts, skulls, snares, etc.) collected should be cleaned and labeled, and
recorded into the specimen record book.
• Establishing monitoring and patrolling systems with the VMUs of other guardian villages
in the NBCA, in a similar manner as that established in Ban Makfueng, initially by
carrying out joint surveys followed by a discussion using information gathered on wildlife
and habitat.
• Continue to use the data recording format prescribed for wildlife surveys and
human/habitat impacts with improvements, if necessary.
On top of these suggestions, there is a major issue that the NBCA management authority has
to address soonest possible, that is the indiscriminate harvesting of wildlife by guns, traps and
snares in most areas surveyed. Most unacceptable is wildlife poaching carried out by some
members of the VMUs of the guardian villages. If this is allowed to continue, the very idea of
VMUs and guardian villages is defeated, and this training exercise will lose its significance.
Hence, it is important for the NBCA management authority, with active participation from
the villagers, to develop ‘village rules and regulations’ with regard to exploitation of natural
resources. Nevertheless, it is very important and desirable to involve the stakeholders in the
conservation efforts of Nakai-Nam Theun NBCA, leading to active participatory
management of the area. Hence, the VMUs have a strong prospective role to play in field
conservation activities.
Conservation of natural resources does not end with the designation of a protected area. For a
protected area to remain viable, it has to have a strong management plan and a strong field
team involving all the stakeholders. To produce a management plan that will be effective, and
yet flexible enough to be able to adapt to current demands, information on wildlife, habitats,
and people (using the protected area) is needed. Much time, money and effort can be wasted
to gather such information if the field team is not equipped with the necessary ‘tools’ to
collect the information. Hence, the training exercise conducted at the Nakai-Nam Theun
NBCA was designed to equip the field team with those tools that will assist them in
performing their tasks. Although still far from being fully trained, the field team is now much
clearer of their objectives and how best to achieve them. Based on the results of this field trip,
it was observed that most of the trainees were able to maximize their efforts in the field,
therefore producing quality data essential towards conservation efforts in the NBCA. Thus,
such a training exercise, carried out both in the classroom and the field is important towards
producing an effective field team.
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rhinoceros, Asian elephant and banteng in Sabah. WCS, New York.
Boonratana, R. 1997b. Field training in wildlife conservation research techniques and large
mammal survey at Nam Phui National Biodiversity Conservation Area, Lao PDR.
IUCN/LSFP, Vientiane.
Boonratana, R. 1988a. Wildlife survey training at Dong Hua Sao and Phou Xiang Thong
National Biodiversity Conservation Areas. IUCN/BCP, Vientiane/Pakse.
Boonratana, R. 1988b. Field management of Nam Poui and Phou Xang He national
biodiversity conservation areas. IUCN/LSFP, Vientiane.
Corbet, G.B. and J.E. Hill. 1992. The Mammals of the IndoMalayan Region: A Systematic
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.
Sokolov, V.E., Z.V. Rozhnov, and T.A. Pham. 1997. New species of viverrids of the genus
Viverra (Mamalia, Carnivora). Zool. Zh. Vol. 76:585-589.
APPENDIX Ia: Wildlife Data Recording Format
Location:...........................…………………………………….…… Date:……………….
Time Start:……………. Time End:....…….......... Distance Covered:................................
Personnel:...............................................................……….…………………………….…
Evidence: 7. Feeding Signs
1. Sighting 8. Other:
2. Tracks - Wallows
3. Vocalization - Bathing Pools
4. Scat/Dung - Mud Smears
5. Nests - Antler/Horn marks
6. Scrapes/Claw Marks 9. Reliable Report
Time Species Location Evide Remarks
nce
APPENDIX Ib: Wildlife Data Recording Format (in Lao)

APPENDIX IIa: Human Impact Data Recording Format
Location:...........................……………………………………….… Date:……………….
Time Start:…………… Time End:....…….......... Distance Covered:.................................
Personnel:...............................................................……….………………………
A: Hunting Activities B: Non-Hunting Activities
1. Traps/Snares 1. Forest clearance
2. Guns/Crossbows 2. Timber-cutting
3. Fishing gear 3. Huts
4. Hunting dogs 4. NTFP collection
5. Camps 5. Livestock grazing
6. Wildlife 6. House construction
7. Other 7. Other
Time Activity Location* Active/Non-active Remarks**
*Latitude and longitude, if possible

**To also include information on the number of persons, their ethnic group, purpose,
residence, names, etc.
APPENDIX IIb: Human Impact Data Recording Format (in Lao)

APPENDIX IIIa: Trail Mapping Recording Format
Location:………………………………………… District:…………………………
NBCA:………………………………...... Date:…………………….. Page No:.…..
Personnel:……………………………………………………………………………
No. Bearing Distance (m) Remarks*
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
μ
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
• To include distinctive landform or drainage features
APPENDIX IIIb: Trail Mapping Recording Format (in Lao)

APPENDIX IVa: Key Wildlife and Habitat Interview Data Recording Format
Village:………...…..….. District:……………..….. Ethnic Group:……..…………. No. of

Houses:……………. Domestic Animals:……………………………….…...
NBCA:………………………………………………..….……. Date:……………
Personnel:…………………………………………………………………...……….
No. Species Location Distance* Direction** Remarks
1 Elephant
2 Gaur
3 Wild buffalo
4 Banteng
5 Vu Quang ox
6 Giant muntjak
7 Malayan sun bear
8 Asiatic black bear
9 Tiger
10 Leopard
11 Clouded leopard
12 Asian wild dog
13 Asiatic jackal
14 Gibbon sp.
15 Douc langur
16 Francois langur
17 Peafowl
ο Key habitats:#
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
* from village
** from village either in km or hiking time
# include mineral licks, water pools, caves, etc.
APPENDIX IVb: Key Wildlife and Habitat Interview Data Recording Format (in Lao)
APPENDIX V: Sample Specimen Recording Format
No.: specimen number as entered into the record book

Date: date of collection
Specimen: specimen type (hair, skin, bones, casts, traps, etc.), and species if known.
Location: location where specimen was collected
Personnel: names of personnel who made the collection
Remarks: to include relevant information associated with the specimen (age, sex, habitat,
amount, etc.)
No. Date Specimen Location Personnel Remarks

001
002
003
004
005
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
APPENDIX VI: Procedures for Making Casts of Tracks
Equipment needed:-
• Plaster of Paris
• Bowl or mug
• Stirrer (any thin stick or bamboo measuring about 20 cm long)
• Water
• Old newspapers
Procedure:-
• Clear track of fallen leaves, twigs or stones.
• Repair track, if necessary, by slowly pressing index finger to the loose soil in and around
the track.
• Place four sticks around the track, to neatly contain the plaster. Sticks should measure at
least 1 cm in diameter, to maintain a cast thick enough that it won’t easily break.
• Add water to a bowl containing some Plaster of Paris, while simultaneously stirring the
mixture. The mixture should be of correct viscosity. Note: if the mixture is too thick, it
will harden too quickly and not enter the crevices, therefore losing much of the details; if
the mixture is too thin, it will take too long to harden.
• Slowly pour the mixture along the stirrer into the track, starting with the deeper recesses
first.
• Pour the mixture until it overflows the track. (Make more plaster of Paris mixture if
insufficient).
• Scratch a code onto the plaster cast before it finally hardens.
• Once harden, wrap the cast in several layers of newspaper to prevent it from breaking
during transportation back to the field station.
• At the field station, clean the soil off the cast by using a toothbrush.
• Once cleaned, the track-cast should be lacquered, labeled and recorded into the specimen
record book (appendix III) maintained at the field station.
APPENDIX VII: Ethics of Field Surveys and Patrols
The following ethics are strongly recommended to improve chances at wildlife sighting:
• A patrol team should comprise not more than three persons per survey route. Fewer
persons mean less noise produced.
• Cigarette smoking should be totally avoided when conducting survey patrols, and be
allowed only at camps. In dense primary forest, the smell of cigarette smoke can linger
for up to three days, and be detected up to a radius of 500 meters.
• Team members should maintain a distance of at least two meters from each other, and
travel at a speed of a kilometer to an hour (or at least not less than a kilometer-and-a-half
to an hour). Frequent pauses of at least a minute should be made every 25-30 m to
observe the general surroundings for cryptic animals and/or wildlife signs.
• Clothing and daypack should be dull-colored and inconspicuous.
• Radios at camp should be just audible to the immediate listener and not too loud as to
scare away animals or ‘drown’ wildlife vocalizations that could otherwise be heard.
• Establish camps at least 800 m away from key wildlife habitats such as mineral licks,
lakes, etc.
APPENDIX VIII: Locations and Preparation of Camps
An ideal campsite should have the following criteria:-

Campsites should be more or less centrally located within the study area, to allow adequate
coverage of the area.
In a relatively flat area and close to a water source, to allow a comfortable and convenient
campsite.
Campsites should be checked for dead standing trees before setting up camps, to prevent
injury/injuries, if the tree/trees should fall.
Campsites should not be less than 800 m from key wildlife habitats (e.g., mineral licks,
water pools, etc.), to avoid disturbing the animals.
Preparations and maintenance of campsites:-

• Campsites should preferably be established by 1630 h, to prevent chaos once it gets dark
or at the worst, when it rains. Hence, campsites should be reached by 1500 h to allow
adequate time for establishing campsites. The distance and the terrain from the point of
hike to the proposed campsite should be taken into consideration when planning the time
at the start of hike. Note: speed of travel with a full backpack along forest trails range
from 2-3 km/hr.
• On arrival at campsites, team members should first prepare the ‘kitchen’. This include
having two fireplaces (to speed up cooking, therefore preventing loss of field time), a
rack for storage of edibles, and a tarpaulin over the kitchen area to ensure the kitchen
remains dry in case of sudden rains.
• Water for drinking should immediately be boiled.
• Rubbish at camps should be burnt and buried, and campsites should be thoroughly
checked for any leftover litter before campsites are abandoned.
APPENDIX IX: List of Field Equipment
I. For each Participant:

• Backpack# & daypack
• Sleeping bag# or light blanket
• Tent# or mosquito net & tarpaulin# (5 x 5 m)
• Binoculars#
• Compass#
• Global Positioning System unit*
• Altimeter*
• 35 mm camera & ASA 200 films
• Watch
• Flashlight# (with spare batteries & bulbs)
• Machete#
• Notebooks# (1 pocket size for the field & 1 regular size for camp)
• Ball-point pens# & pencils#
• Measuring tape (2-3 m)#
• Dull-colored field clothes# & cap#
• Light canvas shoes with studded soles# & slippers
• Insect repellent & leech socks
• Water canteen#
• Lighters
• Whistle#
• Mug, spoon & bowl
• Personal medication
• Personal toiletries
II. For each Survey Team:

• Global Positioning System#
• Altimeter#
• Camera (35 mm with ASA 200 films)#
• First-aid kit#
• Topographic maps & photocopies of proposed survey areas#
• Data recording sheets#
• Pot, ‘huat’ (basket for steaming glutinous rice), & ‘thip’ (small basket container for
storing steamed rice)#
• Sharpening stone#
• Plastic string (2 rolls)#
• Plastic pails (for soaking glutinous rice and storing boiled drinking water)#
• Candles (Two 20 cm candles per night)#
• Plastic bags (various sizes) & rubber bands#
• Plaster of Paris & old newspapers#
• Small spade#
* if available
# should be provided by the NBCA
APPENDIX X: Summary of Wildlife Recorded
Evidence: 7. Feeding Signs

1. Sighting (incl. trophies and carcasses) 8. Other:
2. Tracks - Wallows
3. Vocalization - Bathing Pools
4. Scat/Dung - Mud Smears
5. Nests - Antler/Horn marks
6. Scrapes/Claw Marks 9. Reliable Report
Species Evidence Remarks

Elephant Elephas 8 An old mud smear on a tree, measuring 1.9
maximus m high, in the Houay Tong area was the
only evidence to show the presence of
elephant in the area.
Gaur Bos gaurus 2,4,7,9 Fresh, recent and old tracks were commonly
encountered along the trails, particularly
along the logging tracks and the ridge trail
from Houay Tong camp to Phou Laem. A
villager from Ban Sop-On reportedly sighted
five animals close to Houay Tong in
September 1998.
Banteng: Bos javanicus 2 Only a single set of old tracks encountered
along a logging track in Houay Tong area.
Large-antlered Megamuntiacus 1,2 The tracks of this species was encountered
Muntjak: vuquangensis more frequently than that of the other
muntjak species. Inquiries also suggest that
this was similarly observed by the villagers
of Ban Makfueng. Fresh tracks and
droppings were frequently observed at a
mineral lick ‘Poung Noy’ (17°51’33”/105°
22’07”) and the drying wetlands in the area.
There is also a trophy at Ban Makfueng.
Hairs and blood of a recently poached
animal found near Ban Makfueng could
possibly belong to this species as the hairs
were relatively long.
Indian muntjac Muntiacus 2 Tracks were occasionally encountered.
muntjak Villagers of Ban Makfueng describe two
color variations – yellow and reddish. There
is a trophy at Ban Makfueng showing dark
reddish hairs.
Sambar deer Cervus unicolor 2 Recent and fresh tracks were infrequently
encountered, mainly along the logging
tracks.
Serow Capricornis 2 Tracks were observed mainly on the ridge,
sumatraensis and near some limestone caverns.
Wild pig Sus scrofa 1,2,5,8 Signs of this species were commonly
encountered in the Houay Tong area. There

were two separate encounters – the first
comprised a group of ten, and the second
comprised a group of three.
Hog-badger Arctonyx 1,8 One animal was killed in a trap at Ban Tong.
collaris Feeding signs were fairly common
throughout.
Tiger Panthera tigris 2,4,6 Scrapes and tracks were frequently
encountered along the logging tracks and the
ridge trail to Phou Laem. Generally, scrapes
measured 13-15 cm in width and 30-50 cm
in length. There were however one set of
scrapes that measured 11-12 cm (width) by
36-40 cm (length). This latter set of scrapes,
placed between 20-30 m apart, were
encountered along the ridge trail from Phou
Laem to Laat That rocky flats, and almost
all the scrapes had some urine in it. One set
of tracks encountered measured 5.7cm (pad
length) by 6-7.7 cm (pad width), and 9-11.4
cm (track length) by 10.5 cm (track width).
Another set measured 7cm (pad length) by 8
cm (pad width) and 13 cm (track length) by
13 cm (track width).
Leopard (?) Panthera pardus 4,6 A scat with muntjak hairs was encountered
at Laat Takou, west of Ban Makfueng could
possibly belong to this species. There was
also a scrape nearby that measured 9.5-10
cm by 30-37 cm.
Golden cat (?) Felis temminckii 2 Track measurements and shape suggested
that they belong to this species. Tracks
measured 5-5.6 cm (track length) by 4.8 cm
(track width), and 2.6-2.7 cm (pad length)
by 2.8 cm (pad width)
Fishing cat (?) Felis viverrina 2 Track measurements and shape suggested
that they belong to this species. Tracks
measured 4-4.5 cm (track length) by 4.4-4.5
cm (track width), and 2.4 cm (pad length) by
2.8- 3 cm (pad width)
Leopard cat Prionailurus 2,4 Fresh and recent tracks were frequently
bengalensis encountered along the logging tracks in the
Houay Tong area.
Dhole Cuon alpinus 4 A single scat containing muntjak sp. hairs
was found along a logging track in the
Houay Tong area.
Bear sp. Ursus sp. 6 Signs were quite rare and old . Villagers
report the presence of both species.
Civet sp. 2,4 Track measurements suggest that they
belong to a palm civet. Scats with fruits and
occasionally insects were infrequently
encountered.
Binturong Arctictis 2,4 Tracks and scat were encountered close to
binturong the Houay Tong.
Large Indian Viverra zibetha 1,2,4 Tracks commonly encountered along the
civet(?) trails. One individual was photographed by a
camera trap in the Houay Tong area. This
individual could possibly be a recently
described species Viverra taynguensis
(Sokolov et al., 1997). This, however,
remains to be confirmed.
Back-striped Mustela 1 A skinned and partially roasted weasel
weasel (?) strigidorsa observed at Ban Makfueng could possibly
be this species.
White- Hylobates 3 Vocalizations heard from Houay Tong camp
cheeked leucogenys suggest the presence of three groups in the
gibbon area. Duets accompanied by great calls
usually began at 0547 h and ended at 0609
h. Vocalizations were also from Phou Laem.
Douc langur Pygathrix 1,4,7 All sightings of this species were limited to
nemaeus the ridge from Houay Tong camp to Phou
Laem. Feeding signs were also observed
along the ridge from Houay Lang to Phou
Laem.
Pig-tailed Macaca 1,2 Small groups were occasionally encountered
macaque nemestrina in the Houay Tong area.
Slow loris Nycticebus 1 One individual was spotted in a tree close to
coucang Ban Makfueng.
Pangolin sp. Manis sp. 2,8 Recent and old burrows were observed
along the ridge from Houay Tong camp to
Phou Laem.
Black giant Ratufa bicolor 1,2 Frequently encountered in the Houay Tong
squirrel area, and along the Phou Laem ridge.
Red-bellied Callosciurus 1 Commonly encountered on surveys.
squirrel erythraeus
Indian giant Petaurista 1 One observed at camp, feeding just above
flying squirrel phillipensis the camp.
Brush-tailed Atherurus 7,8 Signs of this species was more common
porcupine macrourus along the ridges of Houay Tong-Phou Laem
and Houay Ian-Phou Laem, particularly
around the limestone outcrop.
Malayan Hystrix 2,7,8 Feeding signs were occasionally
porcupine brachyura encountered. A pile of quills were also
observed along a trail, which apparently
might possibly be a result of poaching.
Otter sp. 4
Oriental small- Aonyx cinerea 2,4
clawed otter
Bar-backed Arborophila 1
partridge brunneopectus
Red Gallus gallus 1,2 This species was occasionally sighted and
junglefowl heard in the Houay Tong area.
Silver Lophura 1
pheasant nycthemera
Woodpecker 1,2
sp.
Great barbet Megalaima 1,2
virens
Rufous- Aceros 1
necked nipalensis
hornbill
Indian roller Coracias 1
benghalensis
Indian cuckoo Cuculus 1,2
micropterus
Greater coucal Centropus 1
sinensis
Spotted dove Streptopelia 1
chinensis
Thick-billed Treron 1
pigeon curvirostra
Pin-tailed Treron apcauda 1
pigeon
Crested Spilornis cheela 1
serpent eagle
Black eagle Ictinaetus 1
malayensis
Chinese pond Ardeola bacchus 1
heron
Black drongo Dicrurus 1
macrocercus
Greater racket- Dicrurus 1
tailed drongo paradiseus
Lesser racket- Dicrurus 1
tailed drongo remifer
Spangled Dicrurus 1
drongo hottentotus
Hill myna Gracula 1
religiosa
White-crested Garrulax 1
laughingthrush leucolophus
White wagtail Motacilla alba 1
White-lipped Trimeresurus 1
pit viper albolabris
albolabris
Red-necked Rhabdophis 1
keelback (?) subminiatus
subminiatus
Monitor lizard Varanus 1 .
bengalensis
Skink sp. 1
APPENDIX XI: Summarized Observations on Human/Habitat Impacts
• Wildlife Poaching: Poaching of wildlife was observed in almost all areas surveyed, and is
particularly common close to the settlements. Guns, crossbows, slingshots, traps, and
snares are used for poaching. Among the wildlife recorded during this training exercise to
fell prey to the hunting activities included muntjac sp., macaque sp., hog-badger, Malayan
and brush-tailed porcupines, silver pheasant, partridge sp., monitor lizard, and several
rodent species. Wildlife is poached both for local consumption and for trade.
• Wildlife Trade: Trading in wildlife or wildlife parts is common. Vietnamese traders
frequently visit the villagers to trade MSG3, dry cells, etc., with wildlife products. On
November 18, the participants came across six Vietnamese traders. Two of them had
animal parts – bones of macaque sp., and stomachs of porcupine sp., obtained in
exchange with four ‘D’ dry cells at Ban Tong. Lao wildlife traders frequently visit Ban
Bouama, particularly to purchase pangolins for the Lak Xao market.
• Forest Clearance: A forested area on Phou Pan, south-south-west of Ban Makfueng has
been cleared by six Ban Makfueng residents (including the headman) for uphill rice
cultivation.
• Timber and Cane Extraction: Although supposedly limited to the intended inundation
zone, signs of past commercial logging have exceeded above the inundation zone.
Villagers usually cut trees in the forest near the settlements to make poles and planks for
their houses. ‘Waai toon’ cane shoots are harvested for local consumption and sale in
Muang Nakai and Thakhek town.
• Forest Fires: Fresh and recent human-induced fires were commonly observed in the pine
forest, particularly along the main trail from Ban Sop-on to Ban Peung. Fires are started
to clear trails and to flush wildlife.
• Livestock Grazing: Buffaloes range freely in the area between Ban Phonsavang, Ban Sop-
on and Houay Tong. Pigs and poultry are usually kept within the settlements. There is a
mineral lick ‘Poung Nat’ (17°51’50”N/105°22’12”E) at Ban Makfueng that is heavily
used by buffaloes. Villagers reported that wildlife (including the large-antlered muntjak)
uses this mineral lick when buffaloes do not use it.
• Camps: Several old and recent temporary camps were encountered in the Houay Tong
area, mostly located along the stream. Evidence suggest that the ‘campers’ were
harvesting fish.
3
MSG = Monosodium glutamate
APPENDIX XII: Schedule of Activities
30/11/98 Arrive in Vientiane. Briefing by John Baker (IUCN Field Manager).

31/11/98 AM: Planning and logistical discussions at WCS. Participants included John
Baker, Mike Hedemark (WCS Country Program Coordinator) and Troy
Hansel (WCS Training Officer).
PM: Final preparations for field trip.
1/12/98 AM: Depart for Nakai - Nam Theun NBCA headquarters at Huaphoo,
Muang Nakhai, Khammouane Province. Accompanied by John Baker.
PM: Preliminary introductions to the NNT NBCA’s head and deputy, Intong
and Soukatha respectively, other NBCA staff and some trainees of the
course.
2-8/12/98 Classroom training at the NBCA headquarters.
9/11/98 Depart by vehicle and on foot to Houay Tong area.
10-14/11/98 Field activities in Houay Tong area.
15/11/98 Depart for Bak Makfueang (project’s focal village).
16/11/98 Field activities in Bak Makfueang area.
17/11/98 Depart for Ban Tong. Briefed the sub-district chief of field trip’s objectives.
Overnight at Ban Tong.
18/11/98 Depart for Ban Teung. Met Bryan Stuart and party en route. Stopovers at
Ban Poung and Ban Thong at Ban Poung for law enforcement activities and
at Ban Thong to brief sub-district chief of trip’s objectives. Overnight at Ban
Teung.
19/11/98 Depart for Ban Maka Nua
20/11/98 No field activity due to typhoon Elvis. Substituted with training in data
compilation and report write-up.
21/11/98 Depart for Ban Teung. Met Bill Robchaud (WCS) and party en route.
22-23/11/98 Sub-teams prepare written reports.
24/11/98 Depart for Ban Makfueng.
25-27/11/98 Field activities in Bak Makfueang area.
28/11/98 Depart for NNT NBCA.
29/11/98 Assisted sub-team leaders in report preparation.
30/11/98 Team leaders debrief John Baker, Troy Hansel and Intong (NBCA Head) of
training activities and presented findings of surveys and patrols.
1/12/98 Depart for Vientiane.
2-12/12/98 Report write-up.
13/12/98 Contract terminates.

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IUCN

Wildlife Conservation Society The World Conservation Union

Wildlife Monitoring Techniques

Ramesh Boonratana, PhD.

A month-long training exercise in wildlife monitoring techniques and participatory

Ramesh Boonratana, Ph.D.

objectives clarified. Supplies’ coordinators were responsible of purchasing, preparing,

Table 1.--Topics of classroom training

MAJOR TOPICS SKILLS/SUB-TOPICS

Table 2.--List of trainees

The trainees at Camp Houay Tong.

Classroom training at the NBCA’s headquarters.

Trainees recording and measuring tiger scrapes.

Trainees preparing plaster cast of a tiger track.

Law enforcement activities – a Vietnamese trader

Escaping Typhoon Elvis.

Boonratana, R. 1997a. A state-wide survey to estimate the density of the Sumatran

APPENDIX Ia: Wildlife Data Recording Format

APPENDIX Ib: Wildlife Data Recording Format (in Lao)

APPENDIX IIa: Human Impact Data Recording Format

*Latitude and longitude, if possible

APPENDIX IIb: Human Impact Data Recording Format (in Lao)

APPENDIX IIIa: Trail Mapping Recording Format

APPENDIX IIIb: Trail Mapping Recording Format (in Lao)

Village:………...…..….. District:……………..….. Ethnic Group:……..…………. No. of

APPENDIX V: Sample Specimen Recording Format

No.: specimen number as entered into the record book

No. Date Specimen Location Personnel Remarks

APPENDIX VI: Procedures for Making Casts of Tracks

APPENDIX VII: Ethics of Field Surveys and Patrols

APPENDIX VIII: Locations and Preparation of Camps

An ideal campsite should have the following criteria:-

Preparations and maintenance of campsites:-

APPENDIX IX: List of Field Equipment

I. For each Participant:

II. For each Survey Team:

APPENDIX X: Summary of Wildlife Recorded

Evidence: 7. Feeding Signs

Species Evidence Remarks

encountered in the Houay Tong area. There

APPENDIX XI: Summarized Observations on Human/Habitat Impacts

APPENDIX XII: Schedule of Activities

30/11/98 Arrive in Vientiane. Briefing by John Baker (IUCN Field Manager).

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