1

WILDLIFE SURVEY TRAINING

AT
DONG HUA SAO AND PHOU XIANG THONG
NATIONAL BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION AREAS,
LAO PDR.
Final Report Submitted to the IUCN - Biodiversity Conservation Project

By

Ramesh Boonratana, Ph. D.

January 1998
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GLOSSARY

amsl - above mean sea level

Ban - Village
BCP - Biodiversity Conservation Project
CPAWM - Centre for Protected Areas and Watershed Management
DAFO - District Agricultural and Forestry Office
DHS - Dong Hua Sao
GPS - Global Positioning System
Houay - River/stream
IUCN - The World Conservation Union
NBCA - National Biodiversity Conservation Area
Nong - Lake/pond
PAFO - Provincial Agricultural and Forestry Office
Pong - Mineral lick
PXT - Phou Xiang Thong
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

A wildlife survey training was carried out in Dong Hua Sao and Phou Xiang Thong National
Biodiversity Conservation Areas in southern Lao PDR from November 1997 to January 1998.
The training was conducted both in the classroom and in the field. The classroom training
comprised of two theory sessions totalling six days. The first prepared the trainees for the field
and comprised fundamentals on conservation biology, wildlife ecology and animal behaviour;
the use of maps and compass; wildlife survey and data collection techniques; and report-writing.
The second theory session, held at the end of the exercise allowed the topics learnt during the
initial theory training and the training in the field to be reviewed. Both theory sessions were
conducted at the field station of Dong Hua Sao NBCA.

The field training comprised of field trips of about 7-8 days each, three to Dong Hua Sao NBCA
and one to Phou Xiang Thong NBCA. In the field, trainees carried out patrol surveys (on-the-job
training) for wildlife, applying techniques learnt during the initial theory training. Briefings were
regularly conducted before and after every field trip, and 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 realise their weaknesses,
therefore allowing opportunities to improve themselves.

Wildlife survey techniques taught and employed during this exercise involved the use of teams
comprising three to four 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.

By the end of the training session trainees were able to independently plan and carry out wildlife
surveys and observations, but they are still in need of frequent reinforcement and supervision to
maximise 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 practise, 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. The best graduates from
past training could become instructor’s assistants and eventually become instructors themselves.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Firstly, I would like to acknowledge Mr. Bounsay Saphangthong, Head of Forestry Division,
Champassak Province, and Mr. Klaus Berkmuller, Field Adviser of IUCN - Biodiversity
Conservation Project, for inviting me to conduct this training exercise in wildlife survey
techniques for the staff of Dong Hua Sao and Phou Xiang Thong NBCAs. I am particularly
grateful to Mr. Berkmuller and Mr. Vilavong Vanalath, BCP Senior officer, for facilitating the
exercise and back-stopping me throughout. This training exercise would not have been
successful without the efforts and interests of those participants who “survived the ordeal”. To
them, particularly Mr. Padith, Head of Dong Hua Sao NBCA - many thanks. Also, many a thank
you to the villagers who acted as porters and guides, and the three army personnel who were our
escorts while surveying in Phou Xiang Thong. Office facilities for this report write-up were
provided by IUCN Lao PDR in Vientiane and IUCN-BCP at Pakse. Lastly, but none the least my
personal thanks to Klaus for providing the much-needed humour while in the field, for re-
introducing me to badminton (after a break of about 25 years), for the use of his home during the
write-up and between field trips, and for kindly commenting on this manuscript.

Ramesh Boonratana, Ph.D.

aka Zimbo
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CONTENTS

GLOSSARY i

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS iv

CONTENTS v

CHAPTERS

1. INTRODUCTION 1

1.1 Background 1
1.2 Objectives 2

2. STUDY AREA 5

2.1 Dong Hua Sao NBCA 5

2.2 Phou Xiang Thong NBCA 5

3. METHODS 7

3.1 Introduction 7
3.2 Classroom Training 8
3.2.1 Theory Training Outline 10
3.2.2 Assessment of Performance 12
3.3 Field Training 13
3.3.1 Logistics Preparations and Allocation of Responsibilities 13
3.3.2 Daily Trip Preparations 13
3.3.3 Observations and Recording 14
3.3.4 Daily Debriefing 15
3.3.5 Assessment of Performance 15

4. RESULTS 16

4.1 Training 16
4.1.1 Initial Condition 16
4.1.2 Progress Observed 19
4.1.3 Assessment Results 21
4.1.3.1 Theory Training 21
4.1.3..2 Field Training
23

5. CONCLUDING DISCUSSION 31

5.1 Introduction 31
5.2 Training 31
5.3. Recommendations 33
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5.3.1 Surveys and Monitoring 33
5.3.2 Training Needs 35
5.4.2 Equipment Care and Use 37
5.5 Conclusions 38

APPENDIX I. List of Trainees 39

APPENDIX II. List of Participants for Wildlife Surveys 40
APPENDIX III. Sample Wildlife Data Reporting Format 41
APPENDIX IV. Sample Human Impact Data Reporting Sheet 42
APPENDIX V. Revised Patrol Reporting Format 43
APPENDIX VI. Sample Specimen Recording Format 44
APPENDIX VII. Sample Scat Analysis Data Recording Format 45
APPENDIX VIII Procedures for Making Casts of Tracks 46
APPENDIX IX. Ethics of Field Surveys and Patrols 47
APPENDIX X. Locations and Preparations of Camps 48
APPENDIX XIa. List of Field Equipment 49
APPENDIX XIIb. Brief Explanation for Selected Items Listed in Appendix XIIa. 50
APPENDIX XII. Suggested Food Items for Field Trips 51
APPENDIX XIII. Survey Routes in Sector 5, Dong Hua Sao NBCA 52
APPENDIX XIV. Survey Routes in Sectors 26 & 27, Dong Hua Sao NBCA 53
APPENDIX XV. Survey Routes in Sector 9, 10, & 14 Dong Hua Sao NBCA 54
APPENDIX XVI. Survey Routes in Sector 8, 9, & 10 Phou Xiang Thong NBCA 55
APPENDIX XVII Survey Findings at Dong Hua Sao NBCA 56
APPENDIX XVIII Survey Findings at Phou Xiang Thong NBCA 63
APPENDIX XIX Some Local Names for Key Wildlife Species 68

LITERATURE CITED 69
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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background
Earlier surveys carried out in Dong Hua Sao (Timmins et al., 1993; Evans et al., 1996a) and
Phou Xiang Thong (Evans et al., 1996b) National Biodiversity Conservation Areas (NBCA),
both in southern Lao PDR (figure 1.1) have provided important information on wildlife and
habitat, and significantly contributed towards conservation efforts in these two protected areas.
During these surveys, only rudimentary training was imparted to the NBCA staff, as data
gathering was the main priority. Since then, the NBCA staff have familiarised themselves with
much of the terrain and network of trails, and further collected additional information on wildlife
and habitat. A data gathering system has been established whereby information is routinely
collected and compiled for each of the 28 sectors. However, both quantity and quality of the data
need to be improved before sector assessments regarding wildlife and impacts can be made
(Klaus Berkmüller, pers. comm.).

To achieve this, intensive classroom and field training were imparted to the staff of Dong Hua
Sao and Phou Xiang Thong NBCAs from November 1997 to January 1998, aimed at increasing
the quality of data collected and maximising their efforts in the field, as well as improving skills
in data analysis and reporting. Both NBCAs are managed with technical and financial assistance
from the IUCN - Biodiversity Conservation Project (BCP) based at the Champassak Provincial
Agricultural and Forestry Office (PAFO) in Pakse.

Altogether there were 14 trainees, nine from Dong Hua Sao NBCA, four from Phou Xiang
Thong NBCA, and one from the Centre for Protected Area and Watershed Management
(appendix I). The trainees can be broadly categorised into three main groups:
1. NBCA staff, comprising civil servants from PAFO and the District Agricultural and Forestry
Office (DAFO), with a background in forestry and have had experience working with BCP.
2. New NBCA staff, comprising civil servants from PAFO and DAFO, with a background in
forestry, but no prior experience working with BCP.
3. Project staff hired by BCP from villages in and around the NBCA, with neither forestry
background nor prior experience working with BCP (will be referred to as ‘village staff’).

The educational qualification of the trainees ranged from high-school leavers to holders of a Lao
equivalent of a Bachelor’s degree. Age of the trainees ranged from one 18 years old to two in
their fifties. Some NBCA staff have had experience assisting wildlife and habitat surveys in both
NBCAs (Evans et al., 1996 a & b). All three village staff are quite familiar with the forest and
are quite good at wildlife identification.

1.2 Objectives
1. To provide intensive training in wildlife survey and other relevant field techniques to the staff
of Dong Hua Sao and Phou Xiang Thong NBCAs.
2. To conduct wildlife surveys (on-the-job training) in pre-selected areas of Dong Hua Sao and
Phou Xiang Thong NBCAs.
3. To assist the staff in collecting data on the impact of human activity in both NBCAs, in terms
of wildlife and log poaching, fishing, forest clearance, cattle grazing, etc.
4. To train the staff in compiling and analysing the data collected, and provide a simple
methodology for data presentation and report writing.
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Figure 1.1.--Dong Hua Sao and Phou Xiang Thong NBCAs
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2. STUDY AREA

2.1 Dong Hua Sao NBCA

Located within Bachieng, Pakxong and Pathoumphon Districts in Champassak Province,
between 14°50’-15°11’N and 105°55’-106°18’E (figure 1.1), Dong Hua Sao NBCA covers an
area of 1,100 km² (Berkmuller et al., 1995).

About 70% of the NBCA have elevations ranging from 200 - 1000 m, and much of the upland
areas form a part of the southern Bolevens plateau. The drainage is westwards into the Mekong
River. The vegetation comprise mainly of evergreen forest (63%), mixed deciduous forest
(21%), and dry dipterocarp forest (8%). Lakes, ponds and wetlands constitute an important
element in the lowland of the NBCA (Timmins et al., 1993; Berkmuller et al., 1995).

Dong Hua Sao NBCA is readily accessible by road from Pakse along the east-west and north
south highways. There are, however, several seasonal and abandoned logging roads that provide
access into the NBCA. Also, the NBCA is accessible along numerous foot trails that are found
throughout its boundary (Timmins et al., 1993; Berkmuller et al., 1995; Evans et al., 1996a).

2.2 Phou Xiang Thong NBCA

Measuring 1,200 km² (Berkmuller et al., 1995), Phou Xiang Thong NBCA is located between
15°19’-15°52’N and 106°29’-106°47’E, with its upper two-thirds in Salavan Province and its
lower one-third in Champassak Province, within the districts of Lakhonpheng, Khongxedon,
Xanasombun (figure .1.1). The entire western boundary of the NBCA coincides with the borders
of Lao PDR and Thailand along the Mekong River.

Much (90%) of the elevations of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA lie below 500 m, with the drainage
westwards into the Mekong River, with mixed deciduous forest (56%), evergreen forest (19%),
and rocky flats forming the main habitat types (Berkmuller et al., 1995).

The NBCA is accessible by boat almost throughout its boundary along the Mekong River, and
by numerous tracks and foot trails from the north-south highway (National Highway Route 13)
located close to its eastern boundary (Berkmuller et al., 1995).
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3. METHODS

3.1 Introduction
Training was carried out in both the classroom and the field while actually carrying out wildlife
surveys and patrols (on-the-job training). Training was designed to provide the most basic of
field techniques; easily understood and practical, yet essential for protected area management.
Furthermore, these techniques require a minimal of monetary input. Topics and instructions were
adapted to satisfy the individual trainee’s aptitude and to suit each NBCA’s needs. Both the
classroom and on-the-job training were conducted in the Lao language. Throughout the training
notes were maintained on the progress, strengths and weaknesses of each trainee. A confidential
report assessing the performance of each trainee was submitted to the BCP Co-ordinator and the
Field Adviser at the end of the exercise.

The schedule for the training was as follows:

Nov. 7-10: Classroom training at Dong Hua Sao NBCA field station;
Nov. 11-17: Wildlife surveys and on-the-job training in Sector 5, Dong Hua Sao NBCA;
Nov. 18-20: Data compilation and analysis, and teams’ report write-up at Dong Hua Sao NBCA
field station;
Nov. 21-28: Wildlife surveys and on-the-job training in Sectors 25, 26 and 27, Dong Hua Sao
NBCA;
Nov. 29-Dec. 2: Data compilation and analysis, and teams’ report write-up at Dong Hua Sao
NBCA field station;
Dec. 3: Participants proceed to Phou Xiang Thong NBCA station;
Dec. 4-10: Wildlife surveys and on-the-job training at Sectors 8, 9 and 10; Phou Xiang Thong
NBCA;
Dec. 11-12: Data compilation and analysis, and teams’ report write-up at Phou Xiang Thong
NBCA station;
Dec. 13-19: Wildlife survey and on-the-job training at Sectors 9, 10 and 14, Dong Hua Sao
NBCA;
Dec. 20-21: Break for Lao PDR’s National Assembly elections;
Dec. 22-23: Data compilation and analysis, and teams’ report write-up at Dong Hua Sao NBCA
field station;
Dec. 24-Jan. 4: Instructor’s report write-up at IUCN office in Vientiane;
Jan. 6-10: Review of classroom and field training, and individual assessment tests at Dong Hua
Sao NBCA field station;
Jan. 11-13: Preparation for joint presentation by Heads of Dong Hua Sao and Phou Xiang Thong
NBCAs and the instructor;
Jan. 14: Final debriefing and joint presentation of training and survey exercise at Pakse.

3.2 Classroom Training

The main theory training was conducted at the beginning of the exercise and a review of the
classroom and field training at the end of the exercise (for topics covered see table 3.1). The
review session was, however, more intensive, particularly on map and compass use. A written
and oral examination was also conducted at the end of the review session to assess the individual
trainee’s skills after completing the course. Both sessions were conducted at the Dong Hua Sao
NBCA field station.
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Table 3.1.--Topics of Theory Training

TIME MAJOR TOPICS SKILLS/SUB-TOPICS

2 hours 1. Conservation basics • wildlife conservation & protected areas
• wildlife ecology & animal behaviour
8 hours 2. Map & Compass • types and purposes of maps
• information from maps: description, details, directions,
distances & designations
• description: map no., edition & location
• details: 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
• altimeter & GPS use
• assignments & exercises
6 hours 3. Recording • note-taking, sketches & measurements
Techniques • wildlife & human activity data recording sheets
• hunter/villager interviews
• photography
• specimen collection: plaster casting tracks, scat, skull &
skin collection, specimen record book
• assignments & exercises
2 hours 4. Wildlife Observation • presence/absence
• survey routes
• identifying species & using field guides
• indirect evidence: tracks & scat (sketch & measure),
vocalisation, scrapes, etc.
• speed of travel & precautionary measures
2 hours 5. Camping & Field • ideal locations & set-up
Equipment • field equipment list & significance
• pre-survey preparations
8 hours 6. Data compilation & • tabulation of wildlife data & human activities
Report-writing • maps for routes travelled, important sightings: wildlife,
human activities, mineral licks, etc.
• scat analysis
• highlights of significant finds.
1 hour 7. Monitoring • focus on key species and habitats
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3.2.1 Theory Training Outline
1. Basics of Conservation: The classroom training began with brief lectures and discussion on
wildlife conservation, protected areas, and wildlife ecology and behaviour. This was to give
the trainees a better understanding the need of reliable and relevant information towards
effectively managing species and protected areas. Also, a simple understanding of wildlife
ecology and behaviour was to assist them in making observations in the field.

2. 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 with maps.
Use of GPS and altimeter were also included. Trainees were also given exercises to improve
their map and compass skills, and an orienteering walk to improve their compass use.

3. 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. This
also included the use of field guides to mammals, birds, and mammal tracks. Detailed note-
taking was emphasised throughout the training. The presence of all wildlife species observed
and human activities were recorded into data sheets (appendix III & IV). A revised data
recording format (appendix V) based on appendices III and IV is now currently in use by the
patrolling staff of Dong Hua Sao and Phou Xiang Thong NBCAs. Trainees were 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 VI) whenever opportunity arises. This included collection of scats
(appendix VII) for later analysis, making plaster casts of tracks (appendix VIII), hair samples,
skulls from dead animals. Specimens collected would serve as important references, and as
displays to impart conservation education and public awareness.

4. Wildlife Observation: Only a single method of wildlife survey, based on animal presence, was
imparted to the trainees. Both NBCAs are still new, therefore in need of more data on wildlife
presence and distribution. Such information provides important and useful input towards
managing a protected area. Furthermore, such method is very practical - simple to understand
and carry out, less time-consuming, can be carried out by a single person or a small team, and
does not require much equipment. 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 recognising wildlife based on indirect evidence (tracks, scats, etc.) were
emphasised. It is relatively difficult to sight wildlife in dense forests, hence data are mostly
gathered from signs. There was also a brief discussion on the ethics of field work (appendix
IX).

5. Camping and Field Equipment: Preparation and location of campsites (appendix X), essential
field equipment (appendix XIa & XIb), and suggested food items for the field (appendix XII)
were discussed in detail. Much field time would otherwise be wasted if there’s no proper
planning and adequate preparation prior to field surveys.

6. Data Analysis and Reporting: After each field trip, data collected need to be compiled and a
simple report for each surveyed sector must be prepared. The report basically comprised a
table of wildlife recorded, a table for human activities recorded, maps for important sighting
of wildlife, routes travelled, human activities, mineral licks, etc., and a page highlighting
significant finds. This report-writing format was to be maintained for future surveys and
 13
patrols. Similarly, scat samples collected were analysed at the stations after every field trip
and entered in the scat recording book (appendix VII). A separate recording format (appendix
VI) was maintained for other specimens collected.

7. Monitoring: Repeated surveys of an area was emphasised 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
held on the criteria to assist the trainees in identifying key species and habitat for monitoring
purposes.

3.2.2. Assessment of Performance

The criteria for assessing the performance of trainees in the classroom was based on their
participation in the discussions, attitude and interest towards lessons taught, performance during
exercises and assignments, and finally based on an examination held at the end of the training
course. The final exam comprised map and compass skills, wildlife identification from pictures
of key wildlife species, and identification and measurements of tracks.

3.3 Field Training

Four field trips were carried out , three in Dong Hua Sao NBCA (appendix XIII, XIV & XV) and
one in Phou Xiang Thong NBCA (appendix XVI). A second field trip at Phou Xiang Thong
NBCA had to be cancelled. Each field trip lasted about seven days. Information was collected
within about 5-6 km radius from base camps established at predetermined locations.

3.3.1 Logistics Preparations and Allocation of Responsibilities

Trainees were divided into teams of three to five persons, with at least one person from Dong
Hua Sao NBCA, one from Phou Xiang Thong NBCA, and one project staff (appendix II). Care
was also taken to ascertain that teams were of similar, if not equal strengths. Team leaders and
membership changed after each field trip to encourage leadership and to promote teamwork and
co-operation between individuals and agencies. Pre- and post-survey briefings were held before
and after every field trip. Participants were divided into teams, responsibilities were issued and
objectives were clarified during the pre-survey briefing. Supplies co-ordinators were responsible
of purchasing, preparing, and maintaining food and equipment. Team leaders were responsible
for the team’s and team members’ equipment, and planning survey routes.

3.3.2 Daily Trip Preparations

Survey routes were pre-determined from 1:100,000 topographic maps. Routes normally took the
shape of irregular loops, originating and terminating at campsites. This allowed greater coverage
of an area. Two to three trainees usually stayed back at camp and were given the tasks of
maintaining camps, preparing food, gathering firewood, etc. Trainees who stayed at camps were
rotated on a daily basis. Camp cooks for the day would wake up earlier than the rest to prepare
breakfast and packed lunches for the survey teams.

3.3.3 Observations and Recording

Wildlife presence was recorded based on sightings or other evidence. 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). 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.
 14

Speed of travel when carrying out patrols was maintained between 40 to 60 minutes for every
kilometre, 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 kilometres per
day was covered on each route by each team. Surveys usually began between 0700 to 0730 h and
teams returned to camp between 1500 to 1630h.

Type of evidence was recorded, along with date, time, species, and location (appendix III).
Evidence such as tracks and scats were aged, described, sketched and measured. Scats were
collected and were later analysed 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 mineral licks, unmapped ponds or
wetlands, and human activities. Observations on human impacts were also recorded onto data
recording sheets (appendix IV) and maps. Trainees were instructed to map coffee plantations and
major trails within the NBCAs to improve their mapping skills.

Opportunistic interviews were also carried out with villagers in and around the survey areas, to
gather additional information on wildlife presence, and type and extent of human activities in the
areas concerned.

3.3.4 Daily Debriefing

In the field, debriefing was conducted every night after meals were eaten. 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.

3.3.5 Assessment of Performance

In the field, the trainees’ performance was assessed based on their attitude and interest in field
work, teamwork, leadership, wildlife identification and use of field guides, recognition of
wildlife signs, field craft, equipment use and care, orienteering and survey skills, and particularly
on the effort and quality of their note-taking.
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4. RESULTS

4.1 Training
Skills at various field techniques, interest and attitude towards field work, and general
knowledge about protected areas and conservation varied considerably among trainees. These
undoubtedly reflect the trainees’ varying educational background and qualification.

4.1.1 Initial Condition

• Basics of Conservation: Few NBCA staff fully understand the concept of conservation and
protected areas. Hence, a brief introduction to ‘Conservation Biology’ was made, explaining
why protected areas are needed for the conservation of natural resources, and how the
ecology of wild fauna and habitats are linked to humans.
• Map and Compass: Knowledge and aptitude in the use of map and compass among the
NBCA staff were variable. Some NBCA staff were able to determine locations
(latitude/longitude and triangulation) and distances (map scales, linear and non-linear
distance) on maps, while some could not. Similarly, only some NBCA staff were able to read
maps (man-made, vegetation, drainage and landform features). All the staff, however, were
not able to select the best routes of travel. The project staff, on the other hand, were totally
unfamiliar with maps, and could only read the names of places, rivers and mountains that
were written on the maps. They could not understand the colours and symbols on maps. This
was partly due to their (NBCA staff and project staff) inability to read French. Current
1:100,000 topographic maps in use in Lao PDR are in the French language. Only some of the
NBCA staff and one project staff could take bearing using compass, but none of them could
do it accurately. Also neither the NBCA staff nor the project staff could use maps and
compass together.
• Orienteering Skills: The NBCA staff and project staff have neither travelled routes pre-
determined from the maps nor have they ever travel by map and compass. Field surveys
carried out by the NBCA staff had local villagers to guide them. Project staff on the other
hand were generally familiar with the forest and could travel without fear of becoming lost.
• Equipment Use: Use of GPS was limited to some of the NBCA staff, only to reading
locations off the instrument. The NBCA staff could read altitudes off the altimeter, but did
not know how to set it correctly, therefore, readings were frequently wrong. Also the NBCA
did not know how to use the altimeter in combination with map and compass in determining
locations. Project staff were totally unfamiliar with the GPS and altimeter. Both the NBCA
staff and the project staff could look through binoculars, but nobody knew how to focus it
correctly.
• Note-taking and Observation: Neither the NBCA staff nor the project staff were habitual of
note-taking, even though note-taking was emphasised to some of the NBCA staff during
earlier wildlife and habitat surveys in the two NBCAs (Evans et al., 1996a & b). Field
observations made by the NBCA staff were limited to filling out their patrolling forms, and
did not include any sketches and measurements.
• Wildlife and Wildlife Signs: All the NBCA staff could identify most of the key wildlife
species from pictures or drawings, but could not distinguish similar-looking species under
field conditions. Project staff, however, were able to identify key species quite accurately
from pictures and in the field. The NBCA staff were generally unfamiliar with wildlife signs.
Tracks and scats identification were limited only to major taxonomic groups. On the other
hand, project staff were quite familiar with many of the wildlife signs. Occasional use of the
field guides was limited to some of the NBCA staff, whereas the project staff had no access
to field guides. Two of the NBCA staff, being ex-hunters, were relatively familiar with the
behaviour of some animals. All the project staff were familiar with the behaviour and
 16
vocalisation of many animals, but their explanations for the behaviours observed were
sometimes incorrect.
• Camping and Field Equipment: The NBCA staff had dome tents, therefore setting up camps
was not difficult, but no one dug drains around their tents to prevent ‘flooding’ when it rains.
During the first field trip project staff used plastic sheets as ground sheets and fly sheets, but
were subsequently issued dome tents for later trips. All trainees on arrival at the camp site
would first established their tents, and would establish the kitchen later.
• Data Analysis and Report Write-up: The NBCA staff would always end their surveys with
submission of their patrolling forms to the respective Heads of the NBCAs. No attempt was
made to analyse the data or write the report , possibly because the staff were not aware of
how to do so.

4.1.2 Progress Observed

• Basics of Conservation: All trainees now understand the basic concept of protected area and
conservation of natural resources, therefore are much clearer with the tasks and
responsibilities that lay ahead of them. Trainees were not entirely clear about wildlife
ecology, but found it much easier to comprehend wildlife behaviour. The project staff
generally had prior experience observing some aspects of animal behaviour in the wild, were
therefore better at grasping the significance of animal behaviour. Most of the NBCA staff
rarely or never had the opportunity of observing animals in the wild, therefore made little
progress in this aspect.
• Map and Compass: Most of the NBCA staff made very good progress with the use of map
and compass, and some became quite adept, able to train others. Two, however, were limited
to only reading the map symbols and determining the latitude/longitude of locations. Two
project staff made some progress in map and compass use, but could perform exercises only
under guidance. One project staff, however, made tremendous progress and became better
than some of the NBCA staff. This apparently, was due to determination and hard work,
stemmed from a strong interest in learning.
• Orienteering Skills: Skills at orienteering among the NBCA staff was quite variable. Most
were able to travel by map and compass along pre-determined routes with little or no
guidance, while a few could not. Two of the better trainees were asked to reach a
predetermined landmark, walking alone by map and compass over a distance of almost 2 km.
Both succeeded in reaching the landmark, and this greatly helped them gain further
confidence. Very little progress was made by the project staff at orienteering. The most likely
reason for this was that the project staff relied on their instinct rather than skills learnt.
• Equipment Use: Detailed operations of the GPS were not emphasised during the training,
except when requested by some NBCA staff. All trainees could, however, read positions off
the GPS. Almost all trainees use binoculars correctly, but there were a few who had
frequently ‘forgotten’ to adjust the eyepieces. All project staff could correctly adjust the
eyepieces after constant reminders.
• Note-taking and Observation: All the NBCA staff made good progress at taking notes and
making observations, although the quality of note-taking and observation was variable.
Proiject staff, however, made tremendous progress. Their notes and observations generally
had more details than the NBCA staff.
• Wildlife and Wildlife Signs: After several patrols, most NBCA staff were fairly good at
detecting wildlife signs. Except for birds, most wildlife were detected by the NBCA staff
when they were flushed. The NBCA staff were generally less quiet when carrying out patrol
surveys. Project staff were quite natural at detecting wildlife and wildlife signs, and were less
noisy than the NBCA staff.
• Camping and Field Equipment: By the second trip, all trainees made good progress at
establishing camps. Responsibilities were divided soon upon arrival at camp sites. Most
 17
trainees would prepare the kitchen, which included the preparation of fire-places for
cooking, boiling water for drinking, preparation of a rack for the food supplies, and fly-
sheets over the rack and fire-places (precaution against rains), while others collected
firewood. Only when the kitchen was properly established did trainees concentrate on their
tents.
• Data Analysis and Report Write-up: All trainees were now involved in data compilation, data
analysis and report-writing. On return from field trips, all trainees would start work on
preparing their reports, which usually took two days. Data analysis and report-writing was a
team effort, but normally led by the NBCA staff. The quality of the reports progressed with
each field trip. Significant finds of their trip were not highlighted well in earlier reports. Data
compiled as a result of the surveys carried out during the training are shown in tables 4.1 &
4.2, and the survey findings are accounted in appendix XVII. The areas visited during
training are shown in appendices XIII, XIV, XV & XVI.

4.1.3 Assessment Results

4.1.3.1 Theory Training
During the first theory session, most trainees did not participate in the discussions and were
reluctant to ask questions. For the review, however, most trainees freely joined the discussions
and frequently asked questions. The initial reluctance was most likely due to their unfamiliarity
with each other and with the instructor, and probably fearing embarrassment if they asked the
wrong questions. Trainees felt encouraged when all questions put forth were treated as good
relevant questions. Also arousing their curiosity by citing examples and telling anecdotes about
wildlife apparently encouraged the trainees to participate in the discussions. Trainees were also
encouraged to account interesting field observations they made.

It was felt during the initial theory training that the general attitude among the NBCA staff
towards the training was something compulsory that they had to do. For the project staff,
however, it was something new and exciting. Most trainees became more interested in the
training after a trip to the field, when they realised they need to fully understand the theory to
carry out their surveys well. Thus, the theory training was more intense during the review, with
trainees asking for more exercises (mainly on map and compass) to work on.

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. Inability to distinguish landform features prove a major
handicap in selecting the best routes of travel and survey routes. Also, some trainees still made
mistakes in determining linear and non-linear distances even though maps currently have a map
scale of 1:100,000 (1 cm = 1 km), therefore fairly straightforward.

Locations were determined by using latitude and longitude only to avoid confusion among the
trainees. Even then, there were still trainees who could not determine locations. This might be
due to their inability to understand that one degree is equal to 60 minutes, and one minute is
equal to 60 seconds, instead of 1 is equal 10 or 100 minutes/seconds or some ‘easier’ figure.
Even with several of the better trainees assisting the instructor by spending a ‘one-on-one’ time
with the weaker trainees, some still failed to determine locations. Similarly, two project staff and
some NBCA staff still had difficulties using compass together with a map. For this reason, map
and compass training during the review was intensively carried out, ensuring that every trainee
was capable of doing the relevant exercises correctly, before moving on to other topics. Yet, a
few trainees did not do well in the map and compass section of the final exam.
 18
In the final exam, all trainees did very well in the wildlife identification section. The results
were quite variable in the section on tracks identification and measurement. Most of the mistakes
were due to carelessness. Trainees either wrongly assigned the species to the tracks or measured
the tracks from wrong points. Most trainees, except one NBCA staff and two project staff did
quite well in the map and compass section. The better trainees would have attained full marks
had they been more careful in attempting the questions, and had they revised their answers.

4.1.3.2 Field Training:

The trainees could work well together, each going about assisting each other when something
needed to be done. However, trainees were apparently reluctant to assume leadership and would
become stressed when assigned specific responsibilities, such as co-ordinating supplies for the
survey teams. Locating and establishing camps were not difficult for the trainees, although
planning was not the norm. Drains around tents were never constructed until it actually rained.
Shelter for the kitchen and food supplies was constructed only at the instructor’s insistence.

Trainees initially lacked the confidence to carry out surveys without the use of local villagers to
guide them. After a few surveys unaided by guides, the trainees could almost confidently travel
along pre-determined routes. This also served to improve their orienteering skills and reduce (if
not eliminate) their dependence on local villagers as guides.

Trainees showed variable knowledge in wildlife identification. Many are only familiar with
drawings or black-and-white photographs of large mammals in mammal guide books. Many
trainees had problems in identifying species using field guides. Foremost, is that there are no
field guides to the mammals and birds of Lao; the closest being guides to the mammals and birds
of Thailand. Despite a strong emphasis, trainees have yet to develop a habit of sketching and
estimating the animals’ size, therefore unable to compare with those in the field guides.
Sometimes, the trainees know their animals’ in the Lao language, but are unable to identify the
species from the field guides because the field guides contain many similar species and the
names in Thai sometimes differ from those in Lao. The project staff, however, were quite adept
at detecting and observing wildlife signs. Also, their note-taking had more details than the
NBCA staff, apparently taking the exercise quite seriously. Note-taking, in general, was mainly
limited to the ‘survey hours’, i.e., from the moment the survey teams left camp until they return.
Much information seen (sighting of birds) or heard (animal vocalisations) at camp were not
recorded, and usually ignored. Apparently, the trainees, particularly the NBCA staff are so used
to the normal working hours (0800 to 1630h). Note-taking is yet to become a habit.

Basic field equipment (machete, flashlight, water canteen, etc.) to be carried by each participant
did not have much significance, even though it was emphasised throughout the field training.
Only when two trainees lost their way during the third field trip to Dong Hua Sao NBCA, did all
the trainess became fully equipped. Much of the trainees’ gear were not meant for the field
conditions, for example, leather shoes or slippers, instead of light, quick-drying canvas shoes;
plastic bowls and plates that warped when filled with hot soups or curries. Also, throughout the
training, it was observed that trainees did not show much responsibility towards equipment
(binoculars, compasses, GPS units, etc.) issued to them.

On the positive side, there was a vast improvement in planning and preparation for field trips.
During the initial two field trips, too much time was wasted in preparing their field gear,
arranging porters, etc. By the third and fourth trip, non-perishable foods and equipment were
purchased and prepared two days before the trip taking into consideration the number of
participants for the trip.
 19
By alternately accompanying the different teams on their daily patrols, the instructor was able
to reinforce the trainees’ skills at map and compass, wildlife observation and data collection. Mr.
Klaus Berkmuller and Mr. Vilavong Vanalath, BCP Field Adviser and Senior Officer
respectively, frequently accompanied the patrol teams, providing further input, particularly
towards addressing the particular needs of Dong Hua Sao and Phou Xiang Thong NBCAs. When
wildlife signs were encountered, the ecology and behaviour of the animals concerned were
briefly explained to increase their knowledge and generate interest.

Although far from being perfect, the field station of Dong Hua Sao NBCA is currently much
cleaner than it previously was at the start of the training. This was undoubtedly a by-product of
the training exercise. Self-discipline, which otherwise was generally lacking, was instilled in the
trainees by having them maintain cleanliness at camps and the field station, and refraining them
from smoking while conducting patrol surveys.
 20
Table 4.1.-- List of Wildlife Recorded at Dong Hua Sao NBCA

Evidence:
1. Sighting 3. Vocalisation 5. Wallows/Bathing pools 7. Nests
2. Tracks 4. Scat/Dung 6. Scrapes/Claw marks 8. Other

MAMMALS1
Species Sector 5 Sectors Sectors 9, 10
26 & 27 & 14
Sunda pangolin (Manis javanica) 2,8 8
Northern treeshrew (Tupaia belangeri) 1 1
Pig-tailed macaque (Macaca nemestrina) 1 1
Long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) 1
Silvered leaf monkey (Semnopithecus cristatus) 1,3
Douc langur (Pygathrix nemaeus) 8
Red-cheeked gibbon (Hylobates gabriellae) 3 3
Domestic dog (Canis familiaris) 1,2,4 1,2,4 1
Bear (Ursus spp.) 6 6 6
Otter spp. 2,4 4 2,4
Civet spp. 2,4 4 2,4
Golden cat (Catopuma temminckii) 2,4,6 4(?)
Fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus) 4(?) 4(?)
Leopard (Panthera pardus) 2 2
Tiger (Panthera tigris) 2,4 4 8(?)
Wild pig (Sus scrofa) 2,8 2 1,2
Lesser Malay mousedeer (Tragulus javanicus) 2 1
Sambar deer (Cervus unicolor) 2 2,4,8
Barking deer (Muntiacus spp.) 2,4 2,4 2
Common barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak) 1
Gaur (Bos guars) 2,4 2 2
Southern serow (Naemorhedus sumatrensis) 2 2
Black giant squirrel (Ratufa bicolor) 1,3
Finlayson’s squirrel (Callosciurus finlaysonii) 1 1 1
Cambodian striped tree squirrel (Tamiops rodolphi) 1 1
Indochinese ground squirrel (Menetes berdmorei) 1 1
Porcupine spp. 8
Crestless Himalayan Porcupine (Hystrix brachyura) 8
Flying squirrel spp 3 3

1
Taxonomy follows Corbett & Hill (1992)
 21
Table 4.1.--(contd.) :

BIRDS2
Species Sector 5 Sectors 26 Sectors 9, 10
& 27 & 14
Chinese pond heron (Ardeola bacchus) 1
Intermediate egret (Egretta intermedia) 1
Lesser whistling duck (Dendrocygna javanica) 1
Black-shouldered kite (Elanus caerulus) 1
Scaly-breasted partridge (Aborophila charltonii) 1 1
Silver pheasant (Lophura nychthemera) 1,3 3
Siamese fireback (Lophura diardi) 1
Red jungle fowl (Gallus gallus) 1 1,3
Grey peacock-pheasant (Polyplectron bicalcratum) 1
White-breasted waterhen (Amaurornis phoenicurus) 1,3 3 1
Red-wattled lapwing (Vanellus indicus) 1
Thick-billed pigeon (Treron curvirostra) 1
Mountain imperial pigeon (Ducula badia) 1 1
Spotted dove (Streptopelia tranquebarica) 1
Red-breasted parakeet (Psittacula alexandri) 1,3
Coucal spp. (Centropus spp.) 3 3
Mountain scops-owl (Otus spilocephalus) 3 3
Asian barred owlet (Glaucidium cuculoides) 1
Oriental pied hornbill (Anthracoceros albirostris) 1 3
Coppersmith barbet (Megalaima haemacephala) 1,3 1,3
Common flameback (Dinopium javanense) 1
Black-headed bulbul (Pycnonotus vatriceps) 1
Black-hooded oriole (Oriolus xanthornus) 1
Ashy drongo (Dicrurus leucophaeus leucogenis) 1
Hair-crested drongo (Dicrurus hottentottus) 1,3
Lesser racket-tailed drongo (Dicrurus paradiseus) 1
Maroon oriole (Oriolus traillii) 1
White wagtail (Motacilla alba) 1
Hill myna (Gracula religiosa) 1,3

2
Taxonomy follows Lekagul & Round (991)
 22
Table 4.1.--(contd.) :

REPTILES
Species Sector 5 Sectors 26 Sectors 9, 10,
& 27 & 14
Gekko spp. 3
Legless lizard spp. (Ophisaurus spp.) 1
Indochinese water dragon (Calotes versicolor) 1
Water monitor lizard (Varanus salvator) 1,3 1
Skink spp. 1
King cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) 1
White-lipped viper (Trimerusurus albolabris 1 1
albolabris)
Yellow tortoise (Indotestudo elongata) 1
 23
Table 4.2.-- List of Wildlife Recorded at Phou Xiang Thong NBCA

Evidence:
1. Sighting 3. Vocalisation 5. Wallows/Bathing pools 7. Nests
2. Tracks 4. Scat/Dung 6. Scrapes/Claw marks 8. Other

MAMMALS
Species Sectors 8, 9, & 10
Sunda pangolin (Manis javanica) 1
Macaque (Macaca spp.) 2
Pig-tailed macaque (Macaca nemestrina) 1
Long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) 1
Ursus spp. 6
Civet spp. 2,4
Large Indian civet (Viverra zibethica) 2
Golden cat (Catopuma temminckii) 2,4
Fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus) 2,4
Leopard (Panthera pardus) 2
Tiger (Panthera tigris) 2,4,6
Domestic dog (Canis familiaris) 1,2,4
Wild dog (Cuon alpinus) 2
Wild pig (Sus scrofa) 2,4,8
Lesser Malay mousedeer (Tragulus javanicus) 2,4
Sambar deer (Cervus unicolor) 2
Barking deer (Muntiacus spp.) 2
Domestic cow 1,2,4
Domestic water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) 1,2,4
Banteng (Bos javanicus) 2
Southern serow (Naemorhedus sumatrensis) 2
Black giant squirrel (Ratufa bicolor) 1
Finlayson’s squirrel (Callosciurus finlaysonii) 1
Crestless Himalayan porcupine (Hystrix brachyura) 4
Brush-tailed porcupine (Atherurus macrourus) 4,8
Burmese hare (Lepus peguensis) 4,8
 24
Table 4.2.-- (contd.) :

BIRDS
Species Sectors 8, 9, & 10
Little heron (Butorides striatus) 1
Crested serpent eagle (Spilornis cheela) 1
Red jungle fowl (Gallus gallus) 1,3
Little ringed plover (Charadrius dubius) 1
Kentish plover (Charadrius alexandrinus) 1
Spotted dove (Sreptopelia chinensis) 1
Oriental pied hornbill (Anthracoceros albirostris)h 1,3
Puff-throated bulbul (Criniger pallidus) 1
Bronzed drongo (Dicrurus aeneus) 1
Greater racket-tailed drongo (Dicrurus paradiseus) 1
Blue magpie (Urocissa erythrorhyncha) 1
Large-billed crow (Corvus macrorhynchos) 1
Puff-throated babbler (Pellorneum ruficeps) 1
White-crested laughingthrush (Garrulax leucolophus) 1
Inornate warbler (Phylloscopus inornatus) 1
White wagtail (Motacilla alba) 1
Hill myna (Gracula religiosa) 1

REPTILES
Species Sectors 8, 9 & 10
Skink spp. 1
King cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) 1
White-lipped viper (Trimerusurus albolabris albolabris) 1
Yellow tortoise (Indotestudo elongata) 1
Soft-shelled turtle spp. 1
 25
5. CONCLUDING DISCUSSION

5.1 Introduction
The primary aim of this training was to enable trainees to i) plan their field work efficiently; ii)
make accurate observations and record these accurately; iii) simply and clearly report their
findings in detail. In this section, recommendations are offered towards surveys and monitoring
in the sectors visited, and towards further improving the quality of the patrolling staff and their
performance, based on their overall performance and training needs. A confidential assessment
on each individual trainee has been submitted to the BCP Field Adviser for further perusal.

5.2 Training
Experiences on this and an earlier training exercise in Nam Phui NBCA (Boonratana, 1977b)
suggest that prolonged and repeated on-the-job field training is possibly the only way to equip
the NBCA staff with the basic skills and experience required to carry out surveys and patrols.
By the end of this training some trainees still had difficulties in the technical aspect of the
surveys, such as using maps and compass. Some still have difficulty in planning their field work
and the quality of note-taking was variable.

Thus, such training without regular follow-ups might lose its effectiveness in the long-term.
Furthermore, varying situations and problems were faced on every field trip, which initially
could not be addressed by the trainees without the instructor’s input, for example planning
survey routes, determining locations, identifying scats, tracks and other signs.

Briefings and reviews carried out before and after every field trip, and 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 and occasionally by the BCP field adviser and
senior officer, on their daily patrols serve to reinforce their training, particularly when applying
techniques learnt in the classroom to field situations. Also, 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. A major factor that contributed to the success of the training
exercise was the personal interest shown by the Head of Dong Hua Sao NBCA. His participation
as a trainee both in the classroom and in the field undoubtedly gave moral support to his staff,
and that of Phou Xiang Thong NBCA. Furthermore, his involvement gives him a better
understanding of the problems faced by the patrolling staff.

The main information collected on wildlife surveys not only comprise observations on wildlife,
but also on human activity and habitat condition (appendix III, IV & V). Systematic gathering
data in this format provides essential information needed before assessments regarding wildlife
and human impacts for each sector can be made. Monitoring of wildlife and wildlife signs
present in an area, in the long term provide basic ecological information on behaviour,
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. Also 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.

Significant finds with regard to wildlife include i) the presence of gaurs and tigers in Sector 5 in
Dong Hua Sao NBCA, and that the presence of the mineral lick, Pong Ban Thong, and the
 26
abandoning of Ban Thong by its residents have had a positive effect on large mammals; ii) the
presence of a breeding population of gaur in Dong Hua Sao and a breeding population of tiger in
Phou Xiang Thong NBCAs (based on tracks of adult-young pairs); iii) the importance of the
lakes and ponds in Dong Hua Sao NBCA to several species of waterbirds, in particular the lesser
whistling duck.

5.3 Recommendations
5.3.1 Surveys and Monitoring
1. The main trail from Ban Xaimon to Ban Khamteu in Phou Xiang Thong NBCA should be
monitored for tigers. The NBCA staff should walk the trail at least twice a month looking for
tracks, scrapes and scats. Villagers of Ban Xaimon and Ban Khamteu can play an important
role in monitoring the presence of tigers along that trail, as villagers travel between the two
villages daily. Villagers would just need to report to their observations of tiger signs to the
village staff hired by BCP (Project Staff), based at Ban Khamteu, who in turn report findings
to the NBCA staff. A record book can be maintained by the project staff at their respective
villages for this purpose. The record book should contain information such as date of
observation, types of observation, location of observation, name/names of person/persons
who reported it, etc.
2. To assist monitoring along the main Ban Xaimon - Ban Khamteu trail, markers can be placed
every kilometre beginning from the start of the trail at the western boundary. Numbers
(referring to the kilometre markers) can be painted on those poles.
3. Lakes and ponds in Dong Hua Sao known to be visited by waterbirds should be monitored on
a monthly basis. At least two field staff should monitor the lakes/ponds from dawn to dusk at
least once a month, but preferably for two continuous days in a month. All species observed
at these sites should be recorded, and their numbers estimated. It might be possible to say
after at least 12 months of continuous data collection as to which species are residents, which
are visitors, and which use these lakes/ponds to nest. This information will be useful in
conserving these waterbirds and their habitats.
4. The master copy of the maps of Dong Hua Sao and Phou Xiang Thong NBCAs maintained at
the respective NBCAs should frequently be updated. This includes updating the location of
major trails, important wildlife sightings, mineral licks, etc. Maps of all sectors should also
be enlarged and readily available for field use and reporting.
5. Data collected should be analysed and the report written up immediately after every field trip
to avoid unnecessary delays in report submission and while the impression is still ‘fresh’.
Separate reports should be written for each sector, and should comprise a table for wildlife
observed, a table for human impact, a map or maps for routes taken, and locations of
significant finds (key wildlife species, critical wildlife habitat, and sites of major human
impact).
6. Surveys and patrols should be carried out in all sectors to provide an overall assessment, but
focus should be on sectors with key wildlife species and habitats, and major human impact.
7. .Monthly rainfall and temperature data should be maintained at the respective field stations.
This data can be requested from the weather stations nearest to the NBCAs. Climatic data is
essential towards the preparation of a management plan for the NBCAs.
8. A list of key wildlife species as they are known by the different ethnic groups living in and
around the NBCAs should be immediately prepared and expanded (appendix IV). This will
assist in gathering wildlife data from villagers through interviews.
9. Specimens (casts of tracks, skulls, snares, etc.) collected should be cleaned and labelled, and
recorded into the specimen record book.
10. Major fresh markets close to the NBCAs should be frequently but randomly surveyed for the
wildlife and other non-timber forest products sold there. This will monitor the type and
amount of wildlife and other products coming out of the NBCAs.
 27

5.3.2 Training Needs

1. Training should be conducted in Lao or Thai language without an interpreter, although the
former is more desirable. The presence of an interpreter could possibly put a ‘distance’
between the instructor and the trainees. Furthermore, much information can be ‘lost’ or
misinterpreted through an interpreter. Also, trainees would likely overcome their reluctance
to ask questions in a shorter time without a third party.
2. There should be an occasional exchange of staff between Dong Hua Sao and Phou Xiang
Thong NBCAs for field surveys (of about 7-8 days). At least two staff members from the
Dong Hua Sao NBCA should join the Phou Xiang Thong NBCA staff on their regular
surveys in Phou Xiang Thong, and vice versa. This exercise could be repeated and alternated
every three months, and by different staff members. This exercise could very likely reinforce
their skills by exposing them to varying field situations.
3. Videos of wildlife, particularly of those found in the region should be shown to the NBCA
staff to help the staff in recognising wildlife in their natural surroundings. Most staff
members have never seen what many of the wild animals found in Lao PDR looks like.
Although there are pictures and drawings of many of these animals, they were not able to
‘mentally’ picture what those animals look like in real life. Thus, videos might assist them in
getting the ‘feel’ in terms of size and shape of the animals.
4. Heads of Dong Hua Sao and Phou Xiang Thong NBCAs and their deputies, and the BCP
Adviser and Senior Officer should frequently accompany the patrolling staff on their surveys
to provide reinforcement on survey technique. Also, they should go through the field staff
note-books along with the field staff to improve the quality of their note-taking and recording
of observations.

5.3.3 Equipment Care and Use

1. There should not be any new purchases of field equipment such as binoculars, compasses,
GPS unit, etc., until there is an improvement in the care and maintenance of the equipment
currently in use.
2. Equipment should be cleaned after every field trip. Equipment like compasses, binoculars
and GPS units should be kept out of their cases and placed in air-tight containers safely in the
cabinets. Similarly, vehicles should be washed and oiled at least once a week, and serviced
every 5, 000 km. A vehicle maintenance log book can be maintained for this purpose.
3. Field equipment and vehicles should be issued to individuals only when they are on
assignments, and should be returned immediately after the assignment. Individuals should
put their signatures every time they issue out and return the equipment and vehicles. The
individual responsible for maintaining the log book should put his signatures against the
borrower’s.

5.5 Conclusions
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.
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 staff
are not equipped with the necessary ‘tools’ to collect the information. Hence, the training
exercise conducted at Dong Hua Sao and Phou Xiang Thong NBCAs was designed to equip the
field staff with those tools that will assist them in performing their tasks. Although still far from
being fully trained, the field staff at the end of the training session are much clearer as to their
objectives and how to achieve them. Based on the results of field trips carried out by the field
staff after the training exercise, it was observed that the field staff were able to maximise their
 28
efforts in the field, therefore producing high-quality data essential towards the conservation
management planning of the two NBCAs. Thus, such a training exercise, carried out both in the
classroom and the field have proven to be effective at achieving a stronger field team.
 29
APPENDIX I: List of Trainees

Trainees
1. Padith (Head of NBCA, DHS)
2. Soubin (DHS)
3. Phouvieng (DHS)
4. Phanthalong (DHS)*
5. Khamviset (DHS)
6. Nouphone (DHS)
7. Duangvilay (Deputy Head of NBCA, PXT)
8. Viengxay (PXT)
9. Souksakhone (PXT)
10. Phaylath (PXT)
11. Bounlith (Project Staff, Ban Nong Luoang, DHS)
12. Phonesay (Project Staff, Ban Houay Namphak, DHS)
13. Kongkeo (Project Staff, Ban Takit, DHS)
14. Khampane (CPAWM)*
* Did not complete the training exercise
 30
APPENDIX II: List of Participants for Wildlife Surveys at Dong Hua Sao and Phou Xiang
Thong NBCAs

Camp 1: DHS Sector 5 (Nov. 11 - 18, 1997)

Team 1 Team 2 Team 3
1. Phouvieng* (Team 1. Soubin* (Team leader, DHS) 1. Padith (Team leader,
leader, DHS) 2. Phaylath (PXT) DHS)
2. Phanthalong (DHS) 3. Khamviset (DHS) 2. Souksakhone (PXT)
3. Kongkeo (DHS) 4. Bounlith (DHS) 3. Nouphone (DHS)
4. Viengxay (PXT) 5. Khampane (CPAWM) 4. Phonesay (DHS)
5. Duangvilay (PXT) 6. Vilavong (BCP Senior 5. Zimbo (Instructor)**
6. Klaus (BCP Advisor)** Officer)**

Camp 2 & 3: DHS Sectors 26 & 27 (Nov. 21 - 28, 1997)

Team 1 Team 2
1. Phouvieng* (Team leader, DHS) 1. Nouphone (Team leader, DHS)
2. Bounlith (DHS) 2. Soubin* (DHS)
3. Kongkeo (DHS) 3. Phonesay (DHS)
4. Zimbo (Instructor)** 4. Khampane (CPAWM)
5. Klaus (BCP Advisor)**

Camp 4: DHS Sectors 9, 10, 11 &14 (Dec. 14-19, 1997)

Team 1 Team 2 Team 3
1. Khamviset (Team 1. Chantala (Team leader, PXT) * 1. Viengxay (Team leader,
leader, DHS) 2. Khampane (CPAWM) PXT) *
2. Souksakhone (PXT) 3. Phaylath (PXT) 2. Kongkeo (DHS)
3. Saiya (PXT) 4. Phonesay (DHS) 3. Duangvilay (PXT)
4. Klaus (BCP Adviser)** 5. Zimbo (Instructor)** 4. Padith (DHS)**

Camp 1: PXT Sectors 8, 9 & 10 (Dec. 4 - 10, 1997)

Team 1 Team 2 Team 3
1. Duangvilay (Team leader, 1. Souksakhone* (Team 1. Phaylath* (Team leader,
PXT) leader, PXT) PXT)
2. Khamviset (DHS) 2. Viengxay (PXT) 2. Chanthala (PXT)
3. Saiya (PXT) 3. Khampane (CPAWM) 3. Phonesay (DHS)**
4. Bualien (Army) 4. Phosay (Army) 4. Bounthavi PXT)
Zimbo (Instructor)** 5. Somdee (Army)
*Supplies co-ordinators **Alternated between teams on a daily basis

Supplies co-ordinators’ duties: Team leaders’ duties:

1. Ensure that the field equipment is
complete and adequate.
2. Purchase and maintain food and non-food
supplies.
3. Decide the daily menu.
1. Ensure that each member is fully equipped.
2. Ensure that the daily patrol team is fully
equipped.
3. Ensure discipline among members.
4. Plan and lead the daily patrol routes.
 31
APPENDIX III: Sample Wildlife Data Reporting Format.

Personnel:................................................................. Sector............................. Date.....................

Time Start & End...................................... Total Distance Covered............................................
Evidence:
1) Sighting 2) Tracks 3) Vocalisation 4) Scat/Dung 5) Wallows/Bathing pools
6) Scrapes/Claw marks 7) Nests 8) Other
Time Species Location Evidence Remarks
 32
APPENDIX IV: Sample Human Impact Data Reporting Format

Personnel:................................................................................. Sector................ Date.................

Time Start & End................................. Total Distance Covered................................................
A. NON-HUNTING ACTIVITIES B. HUNTING-RELATED ACTIVITIES
1. Clearing 1. Camps
2. Timber-cutting 2. Gunshots
3. Fruit-trees felled 3. Traps/Snares
4. Permanent huts 4. Dogs
5. NTFP collection 5. Fishing gear
6. Livestock grazing
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.
 33
APPENDIX V: Revised Patrol Reporting Format
 34
APPENDIX VI: Sample Specimen Recording Format Maintained at Field Stations

No.: specimen number as entered into the record book

Date: date of collection
Specimen: type of specimen (hair, skin, bones, casts, traps, etc.)
Species: animal species (if known), whose specimen belongs to
Personnel: names of personnel who made the collection
Sector: sector of the NBCA where specimen was collected
Remarks: to include relevant information associated with the specimen (age, sex, habitat, etc.)

No. Date Specimen Species Personnel Sector Remarks

 35
APPENDIX VII: Sample Scat Analysis Data Recording Format Maintained at Field Stations

No.: scat number as entered into the record book

Date: date of collection
Species: animal species (if known), whose specimen belongs to
Personnel: names of personnel who made the collection
Site: divisional sector of the NBCA where specimen was collected
Colour: colour of scat
Measurements: diameters and lengths of scats
Remarks: to include relevant information associated with the scat (contents, habitat, etc.)

No. Date Species Personnel Site Colour Measurements (cm) Remarks

 36
APPENDIX VIII: Procedures for Making Casts of Tracks

Equipment needed:-
1. Plaster of Paris
2. Bowl or mug
3. Stirrer (any thin stick or bamboo measuring about 20 cm long)
4. Water
5. Old newspapers

Procedure:-
1. Clear track of fallen leaves, twigs or stones.
2. Repair track, if necessary, by slowly pressing index finger to the loose soil in and around the
track.
3. 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.
4. Add water to a bowl containing some Plaster of Paris, while simultaneously stirring the
mixture. The mixture should be of correct viscosity (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).
5. Slowly pour the mixture along the stirrer into the track, starting with the deeper recesses first.
6. Pour the mixture until it overflows the track. (Make more plaster of Paris mixture if
insufficient).
7. Scratch a code onto the plaster-cast before it finally hardens.
8. Once harden, wrap the cast in several layers of newspaper to prevent it from breaking during
transportation back to the field station.
9. At the field station, clean the soil off the cast by using a toothbrush.
10.Once cleaned, the track-cast should be lacquered, labelled and recorded into the specimen
record book (appendix II) maintained at the field station.
 37
APPENDIX IX: Ethics of Field Surveys and Patrols

The following ethics are strongly recommended to improve chances at wildlife sighting:
1. A patrol team should comprise of not more than three persons per survey route. Less persons
mean less noise produced.
2. 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.
3. Team members should maintain a distance of at least two meters from each other, and travel at
a speed of a kilometre to an hour (or at least not less than a kilometre-and-a-half to an hour).
Also, 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.
4. Clothing and daypack should be dull-coloured and inconspicuous.
5. Radios at camp should be just audible to the immediate listener, and not too loud as to scare
away animals or ‘drown’ wildlife vocalisations which could otherwise be heard.
6. Establish camps at least 800 m away from key wildlife habitats such as mineral licks, lakes,
etc.
 38
APPENDIX X: 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 (speed
of travel with a full backpack over a good forest trail range from 2-3 km/hr.
• On arrival at campsites, team members should first prepare the ‘kitchen’, which include 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.
• Also, 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.
 39
APPENDIX XIa: List of Field Equipment

I. For each Participant:

1. Backpack & daypack
2. Sleeping bag or light blanket
3. Tent or mosquito net & tarpaulin (5 x 5 m)
4. Binoculars
5. Compass
6. Global Positioning System unit*
7. Altimeter*
8. 35 mm camera & ASA 200 films
9. Digital watch
10. Flashlight (with spare batteries & bulb)
11. Machete
12. Notebooks (1 pocket size for the field & 1 regular size for camp)
13. Ball-point pens & pencils
14. Measuring tape (2-3 m)
15. Dull-coloured field clothes & cap
16. Light canvas shoes with studded soles & slippers
17. Insect repellent & leech socks
18. Water canteen
19. Lighters
20. Whistle
21. Mug, spoon & bowl
22. Personal medication
23. Personal toiletries

* if available

II. For each Survey Team:

1. Global Positioning System
2. Altimeter
3. Camera (35 mm with ASA 200 films)
4. First-aid kit
5. Topographic maps & photocopies of proposed survey areas
6. Data recording sheets
7. Pot, ‘huat’ (basket for steaming glutinous rice), & ‘thip’ (small basket container for storing
steamed rice)
8. Sharpening stone
9. Plastic string (2 rolls)
10. Plastic pails (for soaking glutinous rice and storing boiled drinking water)
11. Candles (Two 20 cm candles per night)
12. Plastic bags (various sizes) & rubber bands
13. Plaster of Paris & old newspapers
14.Small spade
 40
APPENDIX XIb: Brief Explanation For Selected Items Listed In Appendix VIIa

Items:
I.12 Data and running notes recorded in the field should be immediately transferred to regular
notebooks and data sheets at the end of each field day to prevent loss of data collected
due to exposure to water, etc.
I.15 Dull - coloured clothes should be worn when conducting field surveys to avoid detection
by wildlife in the vicinity.
I.16 Light canvas shoes with round or rectangular studs, available locally at Kip 4,500 a pair,
are recommended for the tropical rainforests as they provide a firmer grip after walking
in muddy patches. Furthermore, they are quick to dry out after crossing streams and
rivers, or after a rainy day.
I.17 Insect repellent provides some safeguard against biting and disease-carrying insects.
Applied on shoes it deters leeches (a major distracting factor for many field personnel).
I.20 To be used in long-distance communication and during emergencies only.
II.12 For storing maps, note books, scat samples, packed lunches, etc.
II.13 Plaster of Paris to be used for making casts of clear tracks, and newspapers to be used for
wrapping plaster casts during transportation to field stations.
II.14 Spades serve as useful implements for burying rubbish and nightsoil (maintaining
cleanliness at camps and preventing the of spread of diseases), preparing shelter, etc..
 41
APPENDIX XII: Suggested Food Items for Field Trips

Items Quantity (per person per day)

1. Glutinous rice 750 g
2. Dried sausages 100 g
3. Dried beef 100 g
4. Dried fish 50 g
5. Pickled fish 50 g
6. Salt 20 g
7. Sugar 100 g
8. Garlic 25 g
9. Ginger 10 g
10. Small onions 25 g
11. Dried chilli 10 g
12. Local tea 25 g
13. Local coffee 50 g
14. Cooking oil 25 ml
15. Instant noodles 1 packet
16. Vegetables As desired
17. Miscellaneous (biscuits, toffee, etc.) As desired
 42
APPENDIX XIII: Survey Routes in Sector 5, Dong Hua Sao NBCA
 43
APPENDIX XIV: Survey Routes in Sectors 26 & 27, Dong Hua Sao NBCA
 44
APPENDIX XV: Survey Routes in Sectors 9, 10 & 14, Dong Hua Sao NBCA
 45
APPENDIX XVI: Survey Routes in Sectors 8, 9 & 10, Phou Xiang Thong NBCA
 46
APPENDIX XVII: Survey Findings at Dong Hua Sao NBCA

Including replicate routes, a total distance of approximately 460 km of trails was walked during
the patrol surveys. This comprised approximately 190 km of trails in Sector 5 (appendix XIII),
covered in 112 man-days; 130 km of trails in Sectors 26 and 27 (appendix XIV), covered in 56
man-days; and 140 km of trails in Sectors 9, 10, 11 and 14 (appendix XV), covered in 72 man-
days. Some trails were replicated a few times by the different survey teams, as the emphasis was
on training. Although some of these trails were walked a few times, there were significant new
observations that were missed during the earlier surveys or some that were fresh. The survey
results are briefly accounted below.

1 Wild Fauna
A list of mammals, birds and reptiles recorded during this exercise is shown in table 4.1. This list
was prepared based on observations made by the survey teams and the instructor. This list is not
exhaustive, as no trapping was carried out. Except for Padith, the Head of Dong Hua Sao NBCA,
all survey participants were amateur birders, hence not many bird species could be identified.
Below is a brief account of some of the large mammals.

• Gaur (Bos gaurus) [IUCN Vulnerable; CITES Appendix I; Lao PDR Category I]: -Evidence
of gaur was observed during all the three field trips. Of particular significance were fresh
tracks and dung of several individuals in and around Pong Ban Thong
(15°03’06”N/106°01’04”E) in Sector 5 and at Nong Khimin (14°59’30”N/106°07’16”E) in
Sector 10. Tracks at both sites indicated a breeding population of gaur in Dong Hua Sao
NBCA, based on the small prints found alongside the adult-sized prints. Feeding signs,
mainly in the form twisted saplings, possibly made by gaurs were also observed at the
mineral lick and on trails leading to and away from it. These saplings averaging from 2-3 m
in heights, showed signs of their terminal leaves being chewed off.
• Serow (Naemorhedus sumatrensis) [IUCN Vulnerable; CITES Appendix I; Lao PDR
Category I]:- Tracks were seen on the south-western slopes of Phou Pong (c. 290 m amsl) in
Sector 5, and tracks and dropping were observed close to the ridge towards Phou Tabeng (c.
1040 m amsl) in Sector 27.
• Sambar deer (Cervus unicolor) [Lao PDR Category II]:- Signs of sambar deer observed were
generally scarce in all sectors surveyed except in Sector 10. In Sector 10, tracks, rub marks
and feeding signs almost everywhere particularly in the coffee plantations around Ban Houay
Phoung and at Nong Khimin. This supported the villagers’ claim that they do not hunt this
species and other large mammals.
• Barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak) [Lao PDR Category II]:- Tracks observed indicated that
barking deer were generally uncommon, although widely distributed. There is, however, a
rather flat area on the south-western slopes of Phou Pong (c. 320 m amsl) that possibly is an
important feeding or social place for barking deers. Fresh and recent droppings, feeding signs
and trampled ground were observed throughout the flat area.
• Tiger (Panthera tigris) [IUCN Endangered; CITES Appendix I; Lao PDR Category I]:-
Fresh tracks were observed very close to upper Houay Bong in Sector 5. A plaster cast of one
clear track is currently on display at the field station of Dong Hua Sao NBCA. A fresh kill (a
sub-adult wild pig) was observed in a bamboo grove in Sector 10. Two sleeping/resting sites
was observed very close to the kill. There were no other signs to indicate what made the kill.
There were, however, tracks of a leopard (see below) in a coffee plantation about 300 m from
the kill.
• Leopard (Panthera pardus) [IUCN Threatened; CITES Appendix I; Lao PDR Category I]:-
A single incomplete print was observed along the lower Houay Bong in Sector 5, and a few
 47
recent prints were observed in a coffee plantation in Sector 10, not far from the wild pig
‘kill’ (see above).
• Golden cat (Catopuma temminckii) [IUCN Lower Risk; CITES Appendix I; Lao PDR
Category II]:- Confirmed evidence of this species in the form of tracks was observed close to
Nong Ngoo in Sector 5. Also, there was a scat and a set of scrapes of the same age close to
the tracks. The two scrapes both measured 35 cm in length, and had diameters of 5.5 cm and
6 cm.
• Fishing Cat (Prionailurus viverrinus) [CITES Appendix II; Lao PDR Category II]:- Scats
found on boulders close to streams in both Sectors 5 and 10 suggest that they belong to this
species. Scats were from medium-sized animals and contain crab shells, fish bones along
with hair matter.
• Bear (Ursus spp.) [CITES Appendix I; Lao PDR Category I]:- Recent to old claw marks and
feeding signs were observed in all areas surveyed. It was not possible, however, to determine
the species from the claw marks and the feeding signs. Opportunistic village interviews were
inconclusive whether both species exist or only one of the two.
• Gibbon (Hylobates gabriellae) [CITES Appendix I; Lao PDR Category I]:- Vocalisations
heard in the distant from Sectors 26 and 10 suggested that this species is present at low
levels. In Sector 26 ‘great calls’ were heard from two directions, suggesting two family
groups. Similarly, ‘great calls’ were heard in two directions in Sector 10. Villagers of Ban
Huoay Phung, however, reported frequently hearing another set of vocalisations from a third
direction, suggesting the presence of possibly three groups of gibbons in the area.
• Douc langur (Pygathrix nemaeus) [IUCN Endangered; CITES Appendix I; Lao PDR
Category I]:- A lower jaw of a colobine that was recently killed (and consumed) was
discovered on the ridge leading to Phou Tabeng in Sector 27. This lower jaw could possibly
belong to the Douc langur, as only this species of colobine has been reported by villagers and
Timmins et al (1993) found in the area.
• Silvered leaf monkey (Semnopithecus cristatus ) [CITES Appendix II; Lao PDR Category
I]:- A small group of silvered leaf monkey was observed in Sector 10 in between Houay Haet
and Houay Touay Gnai (along the divisional boundary of Sectors 10 and 11). At least six
individuals were observed, although it was estimated that there were not less than seven
individuals. Of the six observed, there was one adult male, two adult females, two adult-sized
individuals and one juvenile.
• Pig-tailed macaque (Macaca nemestrina) [IUCN Vulnerable; CITES Appendix II; Lao PDR
Category II]:- Two groups of pig-tailed macaques were briefly observed in Houay
Thong/Houay Bong area in Sector 5. The first group was estimated to comprise about eight
animals, whereas the second was estimated to comprise not less than ten individuals. These
two groups could possibly be part of the same population. One large group estimated to
comprise 20 animals was also observed along Houay Touay Gnai, between Sectors 10 and
11.
• Long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) [CITES Appendix II; Lao PDR Category II]:- A
juvenile long-tailed macaque was briefly observed in a bamboo patch at Ban Houaysoi
(15°01’45”N/106°18’38”E). Ban Houaysoi is located outside the NBCA, north-west of
Sector 26. Villagers reported that this was the first sighting of this primate species in the
village.

2 Significant Observations
• Several fresh and recent signs of large ungulates - sambar deer, barking deer, wild pig, and
significantly gaur were observed at a mineral lick, Pong Ban Thong, in Sector 5, near an
abandoned village, Ban Thong. This mineral lick measured approximately 20 m by 30 m, and
is highly likely an important source of minerals to large herbivores. There have been no
earlier reports of gaur at this mineral lick in recent years. The reduced level of human
 48
disturbance might have likely allowed the animals to return to their former range. The
presence of these large herbivores most probably attracted large carnivores to these parts.
Similarly, there were no earlier reports of tiger in the area.
• One of the unique features of Dong Hua Sao NBCA is presence of numerous lakes, ponds,
wetlands, collectively referred to as ‘nong’ locally. Some of these lakes and ponds were
observed to be abundant with waterbirds - Nong Ngoo and Nong Kuoang Gnai in Sector 5,
and Nong Lenthom in Sector 14. At least 150 and 500 lesser whistling ducks were observed
at Nong Ngoo and Nong Lenthom respectively.
• There is a series of three large patches of grassland in Sector 10, known locally as Nong
Khimin (14°59’30’’N/106°07’16”E), where there were numerous sets of fresh and recent
tracks of gaur and sambar deer. These areas are probably wet during the rainy season.
Several scats of medium-sized cat/cats were also observed on the flat rocky surfaces around
Nong Khimin.
• All divisional sectors of Dong Hua Sao NBCA that were surveyed had signs of human
intrusions and activities. Wildlife poaching in the form of snares was encountered almost
everywhere. Snares placed about a metre apart have been observed to reach distances of
about 1-2 km. Several gunshots, most likely from home-made guns were heard daily in
Sectors 26 and 27. The presence of the NBCA staff apparently did not deter their hunting
activities. Poachers’ shelters and the remains of their campfires were frequently encountered
in all sectors during the daily patrols. Villagers occasionally encountered during these patrols
claimed to be fishing in the NBCA.
• There apparently is an increasing number of new coffee plantations in Sectors 26, 27 and 10.
Also, there were many new clearings for coffee planting in those sectors. Several domestic
cows and buffaloes were observed in Sectors 5, 26 and 27. Also, dogs and some poultry
animals were commonly observed around the coffee plantations.
 49
APPENDIX XVIII Survey Findings at Phou Xiang Thong NBCA

Including replicate routes, a total distance of approximately 240 km of trails was walked during
the patrol surveys, covered in about 90 man-days (appendix XVII). Results of the surveys are
briefly accounted below. Detailed information, particularly on human impact, are available in the
teams’ reports to the BCP.

1 Wild Fauna
A list of mammals, birds and reptiles recorded during this exercise is shown in table 4.2. This list
was prepared based on observations made by the trainees and the instructor, during the survey
period, hence, not exhaustive. Below is a status account of some of the large mammals.

• Banteng (Bos javanicus): [IUCN Vulnerable; Lao PDR Category I]:- Numerous tracks and
dung of the Bos spp. were found on the main trail from Ban Xaimon to Ban Khamteu,
particularly around the rocky savannah flats of Sector 9. These, however, had to be dismissed
as those made by the domestic cattle, which pastured in the area. Furthermore, it was not
possible to tell the prints of banteng and domestic cattle apart, as the prints were made on dry
sandy substrate. Only when prints were observed deep in the forest, several kilometres away
from the main Ban Xaimon - Ban Khamteu trail were they thought to possibly be those made
by banteng.
• Serow (Naemorhedus sumatrensis) [IUCN Vulnerable; CITES Appendix I; Lao PDR
Category I]:- Tracks of this animal were observed along the escarpments and cliffs of Phou
Sabao Noy in Sector 8. Tracks and droppings were also observed on the steeper slopes of
Phou Chuoung in Sector 10.
• Sambar deer (Cervus unicolor) [Lao PDR Category II]:- Fresh and recent evidence,
particularly tracks, of this species were frequently encountered along the streams, along the
lower slopes of the hills and on the rocky flats off the main Ban Xaimon - Ban Khamteu trail.
• Barking deer (Muntiacus spp.):- Fresh and recent tracks were similarly observed along the
streams and trails, from the lower slopes to along the cliffs of Phou Sabao-Noy and Phou
Chuoung, but rarely observed the main Ban Xaimon - Ban Khamteu trail.
• Tiger (Panthera tigris) [IUCN Endangered; CITES Appendix I; Lao PDR Category 1]:-
Eleven very recent scrapes were observed in Sector 9 along the Ban Xaimon – Ban Khamteu
trail. All the scrapes were of the same age, possibly made by the same animal, and all except
one were scraped westwards. The scrapes ranged from 10-25 cm in diameter, and 41-59 cm
in length. There was one scrape that was associated with a scat outside and behind it. The
scat was observed to contain pangolin (Manis javanica) scales and porcupine (Atherurus
macrourus) quills. Two sets of fresh tiger tracks were also observed along a sandy part of
this main trail in the rocky flats. One of these tracks was smaller, which could possibly be a
mother-infant pair. Several scats were also observed in other parts of the rocky savannahs,
including two fresh ones with grasses.
• Leopard (Panthera pardus) [IUCN Threatened; CITES Appendix I; Lao PDR Category I]:-
A set of very recent tracks was observed along a dry sandy part of Huoay Luat in its upper
reaches. This was very close to the rocky flats in Sector 9. Also observed in the immediate
vicinity and the same general surrounding were tracks of cattle, possibly domestic.
• Golden cat (Catopuma temminckii) [IUCN Lower Risk; CITES Appendix I; Lao PDR
Category II]:- Very recent tracks conforming to the size and shape of this species were
observed in some sandy patches along Houay Luat.
• Fishing Cat (Prionailurus viverrinus) [CITES Appendix II; Lao PDR Category II]:- Some
recent tracks and scats found on rocks along Houay Luat suggest that they belong to this
species. Scats were observed to contain fish and rodent bones, and rodent hairs.
 50
• Wild dog (Cuon alpinus) [IUCN Vulnerable; CITES Appendix II; Lao PDR Category II]:-
Fresh tracks were observed along Huoay Luat. The tracks of this animal along with an
equally fresh tracks of a barking deer suggest that the wild dog might be on the trail of the
barking deer.
• Bear (Ursus spp.) [CITES Appendix I; Lao PDR Category I]:- Recent to old claw marks and
feeding signs were observed in all areas surveyed, particularly along the slopes of Phou
Sabao-Noy in Sector 8, south of the camp, and along the Houay Luat. It was not possible,
however, to determine the species from the claw marks and the feeding signs. Several trees
had several sets of bear claw marks made at different times suggesting that the
animal/animals frequently return to those trees to feed on their fruits.
• Pig-tailed macaque (Macaca nemestrina) [IUCN Vulnerable; CITES Appendix II; Lao PDR
Category II]:-A small group of 8-10 pig-tailed macaques was briefly observed on top of Phou
Sabao-Gnai. Also, fresh hand-prints were observed to the escarpments on Phou Sabao-Gnai
south of the camp.
• Long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) [CITES Appendix II; Lao PDR Category II]:-
Several long-tailed macaques were observed in the evening along the eastern bank of the
Mekong River on the boat ride from Ban Khamteu to Ban Khanthungsai.

2 Significant Observations
• There is a small clearing in the rocky flats, measuring about 20 m by 20 m, located about 200
m from the main Ban Xaimon - Ban Khamteu trail. Several sets of tracks of wild pig, sambar
deer, domestic cattle and possibly banteng were observed in this area. These animals
apparently use this area frequently, as observed from the presence of old and recent tracks,
and the roots of some bamboo stands had been worn down by constant rubbing or digging.
This might possibly be a mineral lick or a pool during the rainy season. Further observations
are needed to ascertain this.
• The main trails from Ban Xaimon to Ban Khamteu and from Ban Kham I to Ban
Khanthungsai are traversed by many villagers daily and almost throughout the whole day.
These trails are the major land access routes to Pakse from Ban Khamteu and Ban
Khanthungsai. With so many people using these trails, the trails were evidently littered with
non-biodegradable rubbish, mainly plastic bags.
• Also, all along these trails and in the flatter areas, there were numerous signs of domestic
cattle and dogs. The domestic cattle are left to graze in the area, whereas dogs are usually
brought in to assist hunters in wildlife poaching.
• Wildlife poaching is carried out with guns, crossbows (with poison-tipped arrows) and
snares. As in Dong Hua Sao NBCA, the snares encountered ran over long distances. There
was one that could possibly as long as 2 km. Hunters with and without dogs were frequently
encountered during the daily patrol surveys.
• Fishing along the streams and rivers were commonplace usually using fishing nets. There
was a spot along Houay Luong that was blockaded with bamboo fencing with one trough that
led a net. This is likely a serious case of over-harvest.
• Semi-permanent huts and shelters, and poachers’ campsites were observed in numerous
places along the major rivers and streams. Occasionally bird feathers and mammal hairs were
observed at these places, i.e. remains of poached animals.
 51
APPENDIX XIX: Some Local Names for Key Wildlife Species

English Scientific Lao loum Laven Alak

Slow loris Nycticebus coucang Leeng lom Loklai tamih
Macaques spp. Macaca spp. Leeng Ngork Mao
Pig-tailed macaque Macaca nemestrina Khamut Mao lung
Long-tailed macaque Macaca fascicularis Leeng haang Mao khrok
nyao
Colobines Khaang Gork
Douc langur Pygathrix nemaeus Khadaeng Haawa
Silvered leaf monkey Semnopithecus Taloung
cristatus
Gibbon spp. Hylobates spp. Thanee Kwaying Kwaying
Wild dog Cuon alpinus Ma nai Chobray Choblong
Jackal Canis aureus Ma chok Ma chok
Bear spp. Ursus spp. Mi Hakao Chikao
Malayan sun bear Ursus malayanus Mi Hakao kaek Chikao siang
Asiatic black bear Ursus thibetanus Meuay Hakao tih Chikao sou
Otter spp. Naak Tarsai Piahay
Civet spp. Nghen
Binturong Arctictis binturong Mi haang
khaw
Leopard cat Prionailurus Seua nhok Kler chaem
bengalensis
Leopard Panthera pardus Seua dhao Kler tampong Charak plue
Tiger Panthera tigris Seua Kler Charak charae
Elephant Elephas maximus Saang Rueh Rueh
Rhinoceros spp. Haet Hrrmii
Wild pig Sus scrofa Mou dong Yooruak Choorpri
Lesser mousedeer Tragulus javanicus Kaai Earr Chakai
Sambar deer Cervus unicolor Kuang Nyui Shui
Barking deer spp. Muntiacus spp. Faan Nyok Kroy
Gaur Bos gaurus Meuay Truey Hamar
Banteng Bos javanicus Ngua daeng Krokbray(?)
Serow Naemorhedus Nyearng pha Keh king
sumatraensis
Pangolin Manis javanic Lin Chah krat
Python spp. Ngoo learm Bee dong Pih karak
Crocodoile spp. Khae Krapeu
 52
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