Factors affecting the occupancy of Chinese pangolins ( <i>Manis pentadactyla</i> ) suggest a highly specialized ecological niche

The Chinese pangolin is a critically endangered and biologically unique species, yet information on its status, distribution, habitat preferences still scarce in Nepal, which limits effective conservation action. This study identified the current burrow density distribution pattern, important parameters associated with Nepal through opportunistic field surveys. Fifty-four belt transects were examined for presence of burrows. For each active (burrow freshly dug soil, footprints, scat near entrance) old compacted dead leaves, spider web entrance), we recorded geographic coordinates assessed data 11 that included elevation, aspect, slope, canopy cover, ground or absence ant termite colonies, type, soil distances to nearest water source, road, settlement. A total 141 burrows 430 an overall clumped S 2 / = 2.188 $$ \left\{\left({S}^2/a\right)=2.188\right\} . Active was estimated be 1.04 burrows/ha. Of predicted influence probability encountering burrows, all significant except elevation. More than 92% found at elevations between 450 750 m facing either SE NW aspect. Similarly, about 90% distributed areas having slopes 0% 30% moderate high located close sources, roads, settlements. Additionally, they strongly preferred forest habitats (with Shorea robusta, Castanopsis indica, Schima wallichii, Clerodendron infortunatum, Nephrolepis auriculata as dominant vegetation), red colonies. Although area currently provides suitable pangolins, it slowly being degraded due increasing rates degradation. Conservation efforts should increased order protect this species their habitats. Finally, our findings reveal characteristics could instrumental policy makers managers making plans pangolins.