Status of isolated Chimgan population of Menzbier's marmot. Sostoyanie izolirovannoï Tchimgansko? popoulyatsii sourka Menzbira. [État de la population isolée de marmotte de Menzbier de Tchimgan].

Résumé

In April-May 2004, an isolated Chimgan population of Menzbier's marmot was investigated. Within a rectangular area of 48 sq. km that incorporates plateau Pulatkhan, the upper rivers of Kyzylolmasay, Larger Maidantal, Small Maidantal, Karangur, and Karaarchasay, 90 family burrows of marmot were discovered and plotted on the map using GPS device. This made a good basis to monitor the status of this marmot population. 86 of the burrows were inhabited (95.6 %). Each burrow contained up to 7 animals aged 1 year and older (young-of-the-year did not appear yet). The colonies were observed to be located at altitudes ranging from 2,088 to 2,855 rn asl, whereas 15 years ago marmots were never met below 2,150 rn. Abandoned burrows were found near shepherd's stands. Marmots are unlikely to remain on the slopes of the Greater Chimgan mountain, due to high disturbance.Overall the population is in satisfactory conditions. The increase of marmot's altitudal distribution range lends optimism to the future of this isolated population, the same way as 15 years old might-have-been predictions that this isolated group would disappear in years to corne.Undoubtedly a main threat to marmots is shepherds and their dogs. To protect this endangered species it is needed to conduct awareness activity in local communities and improve ranger's performance.