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Conservation of threatened species is dependent on consistent population monitoring. We present the first status assessment of critically endangered Sumatran tigers (Panthera tigris sumatrae) and their prey in the Ulu Masen Ecosystem, Aceh, Indonesia. Our estimates of tiger habitat use are the first reported for a Sumatran ecosystem unprotected at the national level. During 6,732 trap nights accumulated over 23 months of camera-trap monitoring in 2020 and 2022, tigers were detected 39 times at 16 of the 52 stations. We identified 11 individual tigers but sex ratios were highly skewed: 8 males, 1 female, and 2 individuals of unknown sex. Cubs were not photographed either year and we did not observe evidence of tiger reproduction. Tiger habitat use (Ѱ = 0.52, SE = 0.15) was negatively influenced by human disturbance and positively influenced by elevation but those associations were not significant. Our study documents a widespread prey base but uncovers demographic characteristics of tigers indicative of heavy poaching pressures. We conclude that tiger-targeted protection is urgently needed to ensure the species' persistence in Ulu Masen which, together with the adjacent Leuser Ecosystem, represents the largest contiguous tiger conservation landscape remaining in Sumatra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Conservation of threatened species is dependent on consistent population monitoring. We present the first status assessment of critically endangered Sumatran tigers (Panthera tigris sumatrae) and their prey in the Ulu Masen Ecosystem, Aceh, Indonesia. Our estimates of tiger habitat use are the first reported for a Sumatran ecosystem unprotected at the national level. During 6,732 trap nights accumulated over 23 months of camera-trap monitoring in 2020 and 2022, tigers were detected 39 times at 16 of the 52 stations. We identified 11 individual tigers but sex ratios were highly skewed: 8 males, 1 female, and 2 individuals of unknown sex. Cubs were not photographed either year and we did not observe evidence of tiger reproduction. Tiger habitat use (Ѱ = 0.52, SE = 0.15) was negatively influenced by human disturbance and positively influenced by elevation but those associations were not significant. Our study documents a widespread prey base but uncovers demographic characteristics of tigers indicative of heavy poaching pressures. We conclude that tiger-targeted protection is urgently needed to ensure the species’ persistence in Ulu Masen which, together with the adjacent Leuser Ecosystem, represents the largest contiguous tiger conservation landscape remaining in Sumatra.

Human-wildlife conflicts present significant challenges in conservation efforts. This study delves into the effectiveness of crowdfunding, intervention mechanisms, and communication initiatives in addressing the humanwildlife conflict, specifically concerning the sumatran tiger. By leveraging data from NGO web platforms, exploratory documentation, national records, and a broad spectrum of literature reviews, we aimed to unravel the nuanced dynamics of these initiatives in the conservation framework. Our findings indicate that while crowdfunding platforms such as the sapu jerat campaign offer innovative fundraising avenues, the harmonized efforts of communication strategies and robust intervention mechanisms create lasting impacts. This study underscores the essence of multifaceted approaches, stressing the value of stakeholder collaborations, including NGOs, local communities, and governmental agencies. Furthermore, this research accentuates the increasing role of digital tools in enhancing conservation efforts, suggesting a paradigm shift in contemporary conservation strategies. Hence, this study offers invaluable insights for conservationists, decision-makers, and NGOs aiming to optimize their strategies in the context of human-wildlife conflicts. At a more detailed level, the intervention mechanisms of the Sumatran Tiger Project demonstrate the importance of adaptive management, inter-agency collaboration, and sustainable financing as key components. This study highlights that the combination of technology, community involvement, strategic planning, and effective storytelling can provide a sustainable future for the sumatran tiger. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sex determination by DNA-based molecular techniques in Sumatran tigers needs to be investigated and developed for forensic and population genetic purposes. The amelogenin gene is a marker commonly used for sex determination. In some species, the difference between the AMELX and AMELY sequences has been reported to be in the intron region. However, the difference between the AMELX and AMELY sequences in the Sumatran tiger is unknown. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the sequence differences in introns between AMELX and AMELY Sumatran tigers to determine the specific differences between male and female samples. This study aimed to analyse the sequence of nucleotide bases in the Sumatran tiger amelogenin gene introns based on the nucleotide base sequences in the amelogenin gene introns. The method in this research is descriptive, with a molecular observation of the AMELX and AMELY Sumatran tiger sequences. The amplified samples were sequenced, and it was found that the lengths of the AMELX and AMELY Sumatran tiger sequences were 215 bp and 194 bp, respectively, with a 21 bp deletion in the AMELY sequence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human-wildlife conflicts present significant challenges in conservation efforts. This study delves into the effectiveness of crowdfunding, intervention mechanisms, and communication initiatives in addressing the human-wildlife conflict, specifically concerning the sumatran tiger. By leveraging data from NGO web platforms, exploratory documentation, national records, and a broad spectrum of literature reviews, we aimed to unravel the nuanced dynamics of these initiatives in the conservation framework. Our findings indicate that while crowdfunding platforms such as the sapu jerat campaign offer innovative fundraising avenues, the harmonized efforts of communication strategies and robust intervention mechanisms create lasting impacts. This study underscores the essence of multifaceted approaches, stressing the value of stakeholder collaborations, including NGOs, local communities, and governmental agencies. Furthermore, this research accentuates the increasing role of digital tools in enhancing conservation efforts, suggesting a paradigm shift in contemporary conservation strategies. Hence, this study offers invaluable insights for conservationists, decision-makers, and NGOs aiming to optimize their strategies in the context of human-wildlife conflicts. At a more detailed level, the intervention mechanisms of the Sumatran Tiger Project demonstrate the importance of adaptive management, inter-agency collaboration, and sustainable financing as key components. This study highlights that the combination of technology, community involvement, strategic planning, and effective storytelling can provide a sustainable future for the sumatran tiger.

Poaching and illegal wildlife trade present severe threats to the Sumatran tiger. The high demand for tiger body parts leads to a high number of imitations in illegal markets, complicating the morphological identification of any confiscation cases. Accurate identification is essential in legal due process, given that the national protection law only regulates Indonesia's native species. Identification using molecular approaches may overcome the problem. However, most illegally traded tiger body parts have been preserved for an extended period of time, reducing the quantity and quality of the recovered DNA. This study aimed to develop a fast and effective method to recover DNA from preserved forensic samples. The methods had been tested with several museum samples of arsenic-treated hairs and a tiger skin piece obtained from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN, formerly LIPI), tiger hairs obtained from Conservation of Natural Resources Agency (BKSDA) of Bengkulu Province, and a confiscated tiger skin sample from BKSDA Aceh. The DNA was extracted using ion-exchange, salting out, and protease-based methods. The results showed that the protease-based extraction outperformed the others to yield applicable DNA isolates for PCR-based species identification by Cyt b and ND2 mtDNA partial genes from preserved samples. However, further works are still needed to recover sufficient DNA yields for sex identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The risk of large carnivore mortality from anthropogenic sources is increased in areas where frequent human-carnivore encounters are high. Translocation is a potential tool for reducing these conflicts and re-establishing wild populations. Determining proper translocation sites for tigers is important for securing their future. In this research, we quantitatively evaluated the habitat suitability of a potential tiger translocation area on the Kampar Peninsula, a large peatland landscape in Sumatra. This landscape is essential for the conservation of the local tiger population, but its role as a tiger habitat has rarely been investigated. We conducted this research in a region with mosaicked land-use types covering an area of 7,045.89 km2. We applied species ecological niche factor analysis (ENFA) to model habitat suitability using species presence and ecogeographical variables as the bases. The model predicted that approximately 60% of the study area is tiger-suitable habitat with varying suitability levels. The tiger habitat characteristics in the study region are dissimilar to the global tiger habitat characteristics, and the high specialization value obtained indicates that tigers inhabit very narrow niches. Considering the low density of tigers in peatlands, we estimate that the carrying capacity of the whole Kampar landscape is approximately 13 tigers. Therefore, to conserve a viable tiger population, it is necessary to maintain connectivity between the Kampar peatlands and the Kerumutan landscape situated to the south of the Kampar Peninsula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A 15‐year‐old spayed female Sumatran tiger (Panthera tigris sondaica) was presented with a short history of haematuria and dysuria, non‐responsive to antibiotics, and a gradual decline to inappetence over a period of 2–3 months. Ultrasound examination showed a thickened urinary bladder wall and the renal pelvis of right kidney was dilated and cystic. A presumptive diagnosis of renal failure was made, and the tigress was euthanised due to deteriorating quality of life and pronounced weight loss. Histopathology revealed extensive erosion of the urinary bladder wall and marked congestion of the submucosal vasculature, a potential cause of the haematuria observed clinically. Numerous foci of neoplastic cells were also observed throughout the lung parenchyma as well as within lymphatic vessels of the lung, the liver and the kidney. A diagnosis of a metastatic non‐papillary high‐grade urothelial carcinoma (UC) of the urinary bladder was made. Consistent with this diagnosis, immunohistochemistry revealed the neoplastic cells were negative for uroplakin III, as has been reported for a subset of high‐grade, infiltrative urinary bladder UCs of canines and humans. This is the first report of a primary tumour of the urinary bladder in a tiger and the first report of UC in a tiger.

A 15‐year‐old spayed female Sumatran tiger (Panthera tigris sondaica) was presented with a short history of haematuria and dysuria, non‐responsive to antibiotics, and a gradual decline to inappetence over a period of 2–3 months. Ultrasound examination showed a thickened urinary bladder wall and the renal pelvis of right kidney was dilated and cystic. A presumptive diagnosis of renal failure was made, and the tigress was euthanised due to deteriorating quality of life and pronounced weight loss. Histopathology revealed extensive erosion of the urinary bladder wall and marked congestion of the submucosal vasculature, a potential cause of the haematuria observed clinically. Numerous foci of neoplastic cells were also observed throughout the lung parenchyma as well as within lymphatic vessels of the lung, the liver and the kidney. A diagnosis of a metastatic non‐papillary high‐grade urothelial carcinoma (UC) of the urinary bladder was made. Consistent with this diagnosis, immunohistochemistry revealed the neoplastic cells were negative for uroplakin III, as has been reported for a subset of high‐grade, infiltrative urinary bladder UCs of canines and humans. This is the first report of a primary tumour of the urinary bladder in a tiger and the first report of UC in a tiger. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inspiring visitors to engage in conservation-related behaviour following a zoo visit is a primary objective for most zoos. Animal-visitor interactive (AVI) experiences are often central to this goal. Yet, these interactive experiences are insufficiently evaluated from both the visitors' and captive animals' perspectives. The current study took place at FotaWildlife Park and involved the construction of an environmental enrichment device during an interactive visitor experience with Sumatran tigers (Panthera tigris sumatrae). It aimed to simultaneously encourage pro-conservation behaviour in visitors and promote animal welfare. Visitors (n = 51) completed a survey, observed the tigers' behaviour and made a pledge to help tigers in the wild after completion of the AVI. Tiger behaviour was simultaneously observed by a trained researcher using occurrence or non-occurrence sampling, which found no indication that tiger welfare was compromised during the activity and was likely enhanced by engaging with the enrichment. Additionally, visitors observed a range of tigers' behaviours. The results indicated that some visitors (8%) had continued with their pledge six weeks after the experience, and most visitors exhibited a high level of knowledge and a positive attitude towards tigers. The use of enrichment during AVIs may be a positive link between the visitor experience and animal welfare. These results can be used to guide AVIs in zoos which aim to connect people with nature and drive pro-conservation behaviour in visitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The invasion of the planter's rhododendron (Melastoma malabatrichum) in Way Kambas National Park caused the loss of the sumatran tiger preys feeding ground, therefore efforts were made to eradicate the plant. This study aimed to compare the presence of sumatran tiger preys between M. malabatrichum-invaded location and eradicated location. Eradication was carried out by removing M. malabatrichum on a plot measuring 80 x 60 m2. To record the animal visit, the camera traps were placed at the eradicated and invaded location of M. malabatrichum for comparison. The results showed that the M. malabatrichum eradicated location was more frequently visited by sumatran tiger preys. At the M. malabatrichum eradicated location, camera traps recorded 19 species of wild boar having the highest encounter rate (55.23) followed by sambar deer (33.24), and long-tailed macaque (17.43). Meanwhile, at the M. malabatrichum invaded location, camera traps recorded 13 species with wild boar having the highest encounter rate (30.56), followed by sambar deer (14.75), and long-tailed macaque (14.48). Thus, the eradication of M. malabatrichum had a good impact on increasing the number of sumatran tiger preys due to the availability of feed after being free from M. malabatrichum invasion.

Recently, some zoos have begun utilizing technology to improve interpretation outcomes. Using the I-Change model, this study evaluated the efficacy of the interactive TigerTrek Exhibit (Taronga Zoo) in influencing visitors' tiger conservation attitudes and behaviors. The I-Change model is a holistic framework for evaluating behavior change. Pre-visit (n = 514), post-visit (n = 609), six-week post (n = 106), and six-month post (n = 24) survey data were collected from visitors. Results indicated an increase in concern that all palm oil is grown unsustainably, which was counter to interpretive messaging. After six-weeks and six-months post-visit, 29% of respondents purchased a product because it contained certified sustainable palm oil. However, 50% of six-week respondents had actively avoided buying a product because it contained any palm oil. By understanding visitors' perceptions of messaging and the types of behaviors they are willing to engage in, zoos can more effectively achieve their conservation goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decade, artificial intelligence (AI) has increasingly been applied to help solve applied ecology problems. Partially observable Markov decision processes (POMDPs) are one such example. POMDPs have been applied in conservation, applied ecology and natural resource management to solve problems such as deciding when to stop managing or surveying threatened species that are difficult to detect. POMDP solvers are useful to find optimal sequential decisions under imperfect detection. However, POMDPs remain inaccessible to most applied ecologists.Here, we present the shiny r package smsPOMDP that solves the problem of 'When to stop managing or surveying cryptic threatened species?' (Chadès et al., 2008). We developed this package to address a common and challenging problem faced by conservation managers. It has broad applications for decision‐makers and ecologists by supporting them to focus efforts and resources where they are most likely to provide benefits to threatened species.Our r package smsPOMDP includes a set of functions that call a POMDP solver, allowing users to solve any stop, manage or survey problems that share the same structure as the original problem. Our Shiny r app also allows users to run simulations of optimal management and graphically represent the optimal solution. The smsPOMDP package and documentation are hosted at https://github.com/conservation‐decisions/smsPOMDP.In artificial intelligence, POMDPs are acknowledged as the Swiss army knife of decision models. However, POMDP's application in applied ecology remains seldom despite repeated evidence of their flexibility. Our package smsPOMDP is fast and provides an entry point to further develop POMDP apps, contributing to further uptake of AI research to solve ecological problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Case report: The clinicopathological features of a case consistent with large felid leucoencephalomyelopathy are described in a 19‐year‐old, zoo‐based Sumatran tiger in which degenerative vertebral disease, renal insufficiency, diaphragmatic hernia and cataracts were comorbid. The principal presenting sign was ataxia, with concurrent deterioration of vertebral stiffness and vision loss. Histological features included marked destruction of the white matter, the formation of large, bizarre astrocytes and accumulation of numerous foamy macrophages (gitter cells). Immunohistochemical investigation of reactive astrocytes revealed several different cytoplasmic proteins. Conclusion: This is the first reported case of large felid leucoencephalomyelopathy in Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conservation organisations and governments often use charismatic megafauna as surrogates to represent broader biodiversity. While these species are primarily selected as "flagships" for marketing campaigns, it is important to evaluate their surrogacy potential, i.e. the extent to which their protection benefits other biodiversity elements. Four charismatic megafauna species are used as surrogates in the megadiverse island of Sumatra: the Sumatran tiger Panthera tigris sumatrae, Sumatran elephant Elephas maximus sumatranus, Sumatran orangutan Pongo abelii and Sumatran rhinoceros Dicerorhinus sumatrensis. We examined how well each of these species performed in representing the distribution of all co‐occurring terrestrial mammal species on the island, and the priority areas for the conservation of three facets of mammalian biodiversity (taxonomic, phylogenetic and functional).We used habitat suitability models to represent the distribution of 184 terrestrial mammal species, 160 phylogenetic groups and 74 functional trait groups. We then identified priority conservation areas using the spatial prioritisation software Zonation.We found that the habitat overlap between each of the four charismatic species and the other mammal species varied, ranging from a mean of 52% (SD = 27%) for the tiger to 2% (SD = 2%) for the rhino. Combining the four species together improved the representation levels only marginally compared to using the tiger only. Among the four charismatic megafauna species, the extent of suitable habitat of Sumatran tiger covered the highest proportion of priority conservation areas. The Sumatran tiger also outperformed most of other mammal species with similar range sizes.We found that some of the top‐ranked conservation areas for taxonomic (28%), phylogenetic (8%) and functional diversity (19%) did not overlap with any of the charismatic species' suitable habitat.Synthesis and applications. Wide‐ranging charismatic species can represent broader mammalian biodiversity, but they may miss some key areas with high biodiversity importance. We suggest that a combination of systematic spatial prioritisation and surrogacy analyses are important in order to determine the allocation of conservation resources in biodiversity‐rich areas such as Sumatra, where an expansion of the protected area network is required. Wide‐ranging charismatic species can represent broader mammalian biodiversity, but they may miss some key areas with high biodiversity importance. We suggest that a combination of systematic spatial prioritisation and surrogacy analyses are important in order to determine the allocation of conservation resources in biodiversity‐rich areas such as Sumatra, where an expansion of the protected area network is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Riau Province in central Sumatra, with its peatland, lowland, and montane forest habitats, was once a stronghold for Sumatran tiger (Panthera tigris sumatrae) populations. Today, Riau may have one of the highest deforestation rates in the world and wildlife populations are dwindling, with natural forest now comprising approximately only 18% of the province, mostly contained within protected areas. Agriculture (acacia, rubber, and oil palm) makes up the majority of Riau's land cover and deforestation for the creation of new plantations is rampant. Natural forest and tigers still remain in Bukit Tigapuluh National Park and Rimbang Baling Wildlife Reserve, which remain connected to tiger populations in montane forest on the western edge of Sumatra. In this study, using freely available Landsat imagery and a maximum likelihood classification algorithm, we create land cover maps for central Sumatra from 2002 to 2016. We then use current land cover, elevation, and slope variables to predict changes from forest to plantation from 2016 to 2050 at five year intervals using a multilayer perceptron neural network. Finally, we compare connectivity based on a 100 km distance threshold (based on potential tiger dispersal) across the landscape and across years. Land cover maps had 80–90% accuracy, and we predict forest in Tesso Nilo and the western edge of the study area to be lost by 2050 given current rates of deforestation. Our connectivity analysis shows that Tesso Nilo and the area between Rimbang Baling and Bukit Tigapuluh are important components for maintaining connectivity throughout the study area. Focusing conservation and rehabilitation efforts on forests close to plantations in flat areas, including Tesso Nilo, is necessary to maintain forests and increase connectivity in Riau to ensure future habitat connectivity for survival of tigers and Sumatra's other diverse endemic species. Highlights • Newly created, accuracy assessed land cover maps are 81.05–92.06% accurate. • From 2002 to 2016, 34.55% of forest in central Riau has been lost. • We predict 58.19% of forest will further be lost from 2016 to 2050. • By 2050 nearly all forest will be lost in Tesso Nilo National Park. • The integral index of connectivity across the landscape decreases by 92%, indicating lack of connected forests for wildlife. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRAK Pulau Sumatera adalah surga bagi keanekaragaman hayati, tapi surga ini sedang terancam oleh berbagai tekanan dari aktivitas manusia dari konversi hutan, pembukaan lahan yang tidak terkendali untuk perkebunan, perambahan dan perburuan liar. Saat ini, hutan alam di Sumatera berada di bawah tekanan kuat yang mempengaruhi pada kondisi ekosistem dan keanekaragaman hayati di dalamnya. Situasi yang sama juga terjadi di pulau besar lainnya di Indonesia, yaitu Papua, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Sumatera, dan Jawa. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan Penginderaan Jauh dan Sistem Informasi Geografis. Teknologi Penginderaan Jauh digunakan untuk mengidentifikasi tutupan lahan dan bentang alam berdasarkan genesis. Sementara teknologi GIS digunakan untuk menilai kesesuaian habitat harimau sumatera dan untuk menentukan potensi daerah untuk pengembangan koridor habitat untuk mempertahankan konektivitas antara dua blok hutan dipisahkan oleh jalan di daerah. Lokasi penelitian adalah Bukit Batabuh Hutan Lindung. Hasil penelitian menegaskan bahwa daerah penelitian ini cocok untuk mempertimbangkan sebagai habitat Harimau Sumatera, tetapi berfungsi sebagai habitat koridor saja dan tidak dianggap sebagai habitat inti, karena wilayahnya yang hanya mampu menampung kurang dari dua harimau. Namun demikian, mengingat lokasi strategis daerah ini sebagai hubungan antara dua kawasan lindung yaitu Rimbang Baling dan Taman Nasional Bukit Tigapuluh, wilayah ini sangat penting untuk dilindungi. Degradasi kesesuaian habitat terjadi pada kisaran 2002 - 2013 dengan indikasi pengurangan kawasan hutan alam yang berdampak langsung pada kondisi ekosistem di daerah. Keberadaan jalan memisahkan blok hutan Bukit Batabuh di daerah memberikan kontribusi yang terhadap tekanan tinggi kerusakan lingkungan. Lokasi potensial untuk membangun koridor habitat adalah lokasi di mana masih ada tutupan vegetasi yang relatif padat. Hutan alam di sepanjang jalan yang memisahkan hutan Bukit Batabuh telah hilang, namun tetapi pohon karet di daerah dapat digunakan sebagai daerah vegetasi karena struktur kanopi mirip dengan pohon di hutan alam. Lokasi dekat dengan jembatan juga menjadi pertimbangan yang baik karena dapat berpotensi digunakan oleh hewan untuk lewat. ABSTRACT Sumatera Island is a paradise of biodiversity, but it is being threatened by pressure human activity in forest conversion, clearing of land for plantations, encroachment and poaching. Recently, the natural forests in Sumatera are under pressure affecting in ecosystem conditions and biodiversity in it. That same situation is also occured in other major island, namely Papua, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Sumatera, and Java. This research was conducted by Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems. Remote Sensing Technology is used for indentifiying landcover and landscape based on genesis. While GIS technology is used to assess the suitability of Sumatran tiger habitat and to determine a potential areas for development of habitat corridors to maintain connectivity between two forest blocks which separated by road in that area. The research location is Forest Preserve Batabuh Hill. The results have confirmed that the area is suitable for consideration as tiger habitat, but it has function for habitat corridors only and not regarded as a core habitat, because this area be able to accomodate fewer than two tigers. However, considering the location of strategic area as relationship between two protected areas that Rimbang Baling and Bukit Tigapuluh National Park, it has very important to be protected. Degradation of habitat suitability was occured of 2002 - 2013 with indication of reduction in natural forest areas that directly impact on ecosystem condition in the area. The existence of separate forest blocks Batabuh Hill in roads is giving contributed on high pressure environmental damage. The potential area to establish habitat corridors is located in area with covered of relatively dense vegetation. Natural forests in along road is separating Forest Hill Batabuh already lost, but the rubber trees in that area can be used as vegetation area because canopy structure similar a tree in natural forests. The location which near in bridge is also into consideration because could be potential for animals to pass.

Abstract: Tolerance may lessen when wildlife adversely impacts people. Models from psychology can help elucidate how people make judgments, why they act accordingly, and whether beliefs and norms influence support for policy and intervention. Working in a globally important region for tigers, we estimated hunting prevalence for this endangered species and three sympatric taxa using methods for asking sensitive questions. We also investigated the relative strength of ethnicity and social‐psychological predictors in influencing intention to hunt. Men's behavioral intention and perceptions differed by species: proconservation values were most prevalent for tiger, weakest for wild boar. Perceived behavioral control was the strongest predictor of hunting‐intention; affect and injunctive norms were also important. The prominence of affect in determining intention suggests increasing environmental knowledge is unlikely to curb hunting. However, existing norms could be leveraged to incentivize behaviorchange. Integrating behavior‐change models into conservation science is crucial where strategies require changes in people's actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tigers (Panthera tigris) are one of the world’s most recognizable big cats and all surviving subspecies are critically endangered. Despite the need to understand tiger behaviour in order to enhance captive care and conservation efforts, knowledge of tiger acoustic communication has relied almost entirely on aural descriptions. We measured the acoustic characteristics of multiple, distinctly different tiger sounds and linked these sounds to behavioural contexts. Remote audio recordings of five captive Sumatran tigers (P. t. sumatrae) at Taronga Zoo, New South Wales, Australia, were obtained in May–July 2014. The 331 highest quality recordings of tiger vocalizations were separated into 7 categories (‘moan’, ‘arf’, ‘mrr’, ‘growl’, ‘roar’, ‘chuff’ and ‘hiss’) and quantified regarding fundamental and peak frequencies, duration and, in some cases, harmonics or pulse rate. Classification of the most frequently uttered vocalizations was also determined with a multinomial logistic regression based on measurements of peak frequency (Hz), fundamental frequency (Hz) and duration (s). Our findings also indicate that, although loud vocalizations uttered by tigers have often been categorized as ‘roars’, ‘roaring’ is relatively rare and is used only in contexts of pain, fear and/or high aggression, while the loud ‘moan’ is likely the more commonly heard vocalization and is frequently uttered by tigers in announcement/contact contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reliable information on wildlife populations and the threats they face is crucial for assessing the performance of conservation strategies. As part of its efforts to improve the effectiveness of Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park in Sumatra, Indonesia, and aid the recovery of flagship species, the Park's management authority designated a 1,000 km2 forest block an Intensive Protection Zone. To set a baseline from which to evaluate the performance of this zone, we investigated the density of tigers Panthera tigris sumatrae, and spatio-temporal interactions between tigers, their principle prey and threats. The estimated density of tigers was 2.8 per 100 km2, whereas in 2002 camera-trapping failed to record any tigers in the Intensive Protection Zone. We found the study area contained a rich prey base, with muntjac deer Muntiacus muntjak, macaques Macaca nemestrina and wild pigs Sus scrofa occupying 85–98% of the area, and sambar Rusa unicolor 61%. Despite these promising findings we also recorded a relatively high number of people entering the Park illegally, with 77 incidents over 6 months, of which 20% involved armed poachers. The poachers operated mainly at night and were concentrated in two locations. Law enforcement patrol teams were active during the day, and therefore had little overlap with the poachers. Prioritizing these at-risk areas for increased protection by rangers would further secure the Intensive Protection Zone, and expanding ranger activity across the Park would support efforts to remove the Park from UNESCO's List of World Heritage In Danger. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The continuing development of improved capture-recapture (CR) modeling techniques used to study apex predators has also limited robust temporal and cross-site analyses due to different methods employed. We develop an approach to standardize older non-spatial CR and newer spatial CR density estimates and examine trends for critically endangered Sumatran tigers (Panthera tigris sumatrae) using a meta-regression of 17 existing densities and new estimates from our own fieldwork. We find that tiger densities were 47% higher in primary versus degraded forests and, unexpectedly, increased 4.9% per yr from 1996 to 2014, likely indicating a recovery from earlier poaching. However, while tiger numbers may have temporarily risen, the total potential island-wide population declined by 16.6% from 2000 to 2012 due to forest loss and degradation and subpopulations are significantly more fragmented. Thus, despite increasing densities in smaller parks, we conclude that there are only two robust populations left with >30 breeding females, indicating Sumatran tigers still face a high risk of extinction unless deforestation can be controlled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to identify gastrointestinal worms in Sumatran tigers (Panthera tigris sumatrae) in The Taman Satwa Kandi Sawahlunto, West Sumatra. The qualitative examination was carried out on male and female tigers with native and floating methods. The results showed that both of Sumatran tigers were positive for nematode eggs, namely ascarid and trichurid worm eggs. The type of adult worm that produces eggs for ascarid worms on the Sumatran tiger is Toxo-cara cati while the adult worm that produces eggs of trichurid worms is Trichuris trichiura. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interpretation is a critical aspect of any zoo or aquarium's educational mission. This study evaluated the impact of Tiger Trail, a new habitat for Sumatran tigers at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park featuring an immersive environment where the visitor's journey unfolds through a storyline narrative. The study measured visitor knowledge of key messages, recall of interpretive elements, and reaction to the exhibit, and found that Tiger Trail visitors demonstrated significantly more knowledge of the exhibit's key messages relative to a matched comparison group. The study also found that visitors who interacted with an interpreter or keeper exhibited slightly more knowledge relative to exhibit visitors who did not, and that those visitors expressed significantly more positive ratings of the exhibit and their self-assessed learnings.There is increasing interest in measuring the results of interpretive efforts in zoological settings (Li, 2014; Falk, Reinhard, Vernon, Bronnenkant, Deans & Heimlich, 2007). The International Zoo Educators Exploring our Interpretive Practice: An Impact Evaluation James Marshall Professor of Educational Leadership, San Diego State University, United States of America Association (2015) states that "[e]valuation can be in many forms such as needs assessments or exhibition evaluations. It can also be used to gauge things such as the effectiveness of informal education or education techniques" (para. 1). This article presents results from an impact evaluation of the Tiger Trail exhibit at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. The study was commissioned to understand visitors' reactions to the exhibit and their activities within it, and investigated reception of key messaging. As interaction between visitors and zoo personnel has been established as a positive influence on visitor outcomes that include increased knowledge, conservation understanding and potential action (Anderson, Kelling, Pressley-Keough, Bloomsmith &Maple, 2003; Broad & Weiler, 1998), the study also compared outcomes between visitors who interacted with zoo personnel, and those who did not. The results of this evaluation were one important component that helped Tiger Trail receive the Association of Zoos & Aquarium's 2015 Top Honors Exhibit Award. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Sumatran tiger (Panthera tigris ssp. sumatrae ) is a critically endangered species in the wild. To ensure that demographic and genetic integrity are maintained in the longer term, those Sumatran tigers held in captivity are managed as a global population under a World Association of Zoos and Aquariums Global Species Management Plan (GSMP). A retrospective study, including segregation and pedigree analysis, was conducted to investigate potential cases of congenital vestibular disease (CVD) in captive Sumatran tigers in Australasian zoos using medical and husbandry records, as well as video footage obtained from 50 tigers between 1975 and 2013. Data from the GSMP Sumatran tiger studbook were made available for pedigree and segregation analysis. Fourteen cases of CVD in 13 Sumatran tiger cubs and one hybrid cub ( Panthera tigris ssp. sumatrae  ×  Panthera tigris ) were identified. Vestibular signs including head tilt, circling, ataxia, strabismus and nystagmus were observed between birth and 2 months of age. These clinical signs persisted for a median of 237 days and had resolved by 2 years of age in all cases. Pedigree analysis revealed that all affected tigers were closely related and shared a single common ancestor in the last four generations. A genetic cause for the disease is suspected and, based on pedigree and segregation analysis, an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance is likely. Further investigations to determine the world-wide prevalence and underlying pathology of this disorder are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The United Nations recently listed illegal wildlife trade as a serious crime because of the escalating demand for highly prized species, such as tiger and rhinoceros, and the failure to effectively control the trade. In turn, this places greater urgency on reducing supply by securing source populations of these species. Yet, whether law enforcement strategies designed to mitigate poaching are succeeding remains poorly understood, despite the millions of dollars invested annually in this mainstay conservation strategy., Here, we assess the performance of one of Asia's longest running law enforcement programmes, from Kerinci Seblat National Park in Sumatra, by investigating whether forest ranger patrols reduced the occurrence of snare traps set for tiger and its ungulate prey base; local informant reports on poaching influenced ranger patrol success; and the resulting population trends of target species changed in response to these conservation actions., A total of 4433 snare traps were removed during 642 foot patrols conducted from 2000 to 2010. Controlling for the influence of varying detection probabilities, as well as accessibility and other possible determinants of illegal hunting, revealed that sites with a greater frequency of patrols, rather than the combined distance walked, had a lower occurrence of snare traps in succeeding years., Patrols conducted on the basis of local informant 'tip-offs' were significantly more likely to detect snare traps than routine patrols, with reports increasing detections by over 40%., There were no significant changes in the occupancy status of the tiger prey base from 2004 to 2011, suggesting that it remained stable during this period. The relatively good condition of prey and predator populations in Kerinci Seblat National Park was further supported by the results of an independent survey conducted in 2008-2009 which revealed a widespread tiger occurrence., Synthesis and applications. Our results not only demonstrate the effectiveness of the Kerinci Seblat law enforcement strategy in protecting wildlife, but highlight the benefits from cultivating a network of reliable informants. The study also represents a critical step in helping these urgently needed conservation assessments to become common place in the fight to save flagship species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The wild tiger population in tropical Asia has dropped from about 100,000 to 3500 in the last century, and the need to conserve tiger habitats poses a challenge for the Global Tiger Recovery Program. This paper develops and uses a high-resolution monthly forest clearing database for 74 tiger habitat areas in ten countries to investigate habitat threats for Bengal, Indochinese, Malayan and Sumatran tigers. The econometric model links forest habitat loss and forest clearing to profitability calculations that are affected by market expectations, environmental conditions and evolving patterns of settlement, among others. It uses new spatial panel estimation methods that allow for temporal and spatial autocorrelation. The econometric results emphasize the role of short-run market variables, including the exchange rate, real interest rate and prices of agricultural products in forest clearing, with considerable variation in the estimated timing for response and impact elasticities across countries. The results highlight a critical message for the conservation policy community: Changes in world agricultural-product markets and national financial policies have significant, measurable effects on tropical forest clearing, with variable time lags and degrees of responsiveness across countries. Measuring these effects and pinpointing areas at risk can provide valuable guidance for policymakers, conservation managers, and donor institutions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] We mapped and quantified tiger habitat and ecosystem services in central Sumatra. [•] We assessed habitat and service changes to two alternative future scenarios. [•] In 2008, habitat, carbon storage and sediment retention areas overlapped well. [•] The “Green Vision” future exceeded the “Government Plan” scenario for most services. [•] Prioritizing ecosystem services in land use plans can benefit conservation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] Faecal cortisol metabolite (FCM) EIA was validated for the Tiger. [•] Blood sampling increased FCM in 1day, reaching baseline in 5days. [•] 89% recovery of the cortisol standard against tiger faecal extract. [•] Significant effect of sex of FCMs, not significant between sub-species. [•] Tigers with health problems had higher FCM levels than healthy ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information on spatial and temporal variation in abundance is crucial for effective management of wildlife. Yet abundance estimates for the Critically Endangered Sumatran tiger Panthera tigris sumatrae are lacking from Riau, the province historically believed to hold the largest percentage of this subspecies. Recently, this area has had one of the highest global rates of deforestation. Using camera traps we investigated tiger abundance across peatland, flat lowland, and hilly lowland forest types in the province, and over time, in the newly established Tesso Nilo National Park, central Sumatra. We estimated densities using spatially explicit capture–recapture, calculated with DENSITY, and traditional capture–recapture models, calculated with CAPTURE. With spatially explicit capture–recapture the lowest tiger density (0.34 ± SE 0.24 per 100 km2) was estimated in the hilly lowland forest of Rimbang Baling and the highest (0.87 ± SE 0.33 per 100 km2) in the flat lowland forest of the Park. Repeated surveys in the Park documented densities of 0.63 ± SE 0.28 in 2005 to 0.87 ± SE 0.33 per 100 km2 in 2008. Compared to traditional capture–recapture the spatially explicit capture–recapture approach resulted in estimates 50% lower. Estimates of tiger density from this study were lower than most previous estimates in other parts of Sumatra. High levels of human activity in the area appear to limit tigers. The results of this study, which covered areas and habitat types not previously surveyed, are important for overall population estimates across the island, provide insight into the response of carnivores to habitat loss, and are relevant to the interventions needed to save the tiger. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

While interactive tours have been argued to hold great conservation potential for zoo visitors, the influence on the participating animal's behavior is often ignored. To investigate this, we observed the behavior of one Sumatran tiger (Panthera tigris sumatrae) and three African lions (Panthera leo leo) involved in a protected contact tour, as well as that of three cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) involved in a hands-on tour, at Zoos South Australia. Instantaneous scan sampling (30-s intervals) was used to record animal behavior before, during, and after behind-the-scenes tours, as well as for equivalent times on non-tour days, over a three-month period. Estimated proximity (close, < 2 m; moderate, 2-5 m; and distant, > 5 m) to humans was also recorded as an indirect measure of interaction. The animals in the protected contact tour displayed decreased inactivity and increased feeding and pacing during the tours, compared to before and after. We suggest that the increased pacing is more associated with the animals being fed during the tours, rather than the tours being a stressful experience. Those in the hands-on tour showed variation in proportions of multiple behavior categories and primarily these were shifts in species-typical behaviors. In contrast to those in the protected contact tour, they showed decreased pacing during the tour sessions. No aggressive or otherwise antagonistic behaviors directed at humans were observed by animals in either tour, with these animals typically spending more than half of their tour times in distant proximity to keepers and visitors. Combined, these findings indicate that large felid behavior may be altered by participation in interactive tours, but that these changes are not necessarily indicative of compromised wellbeing. Additional research is needed to determine the impact that these experiences are having on the welfare of the animals. This study reinforces the potential for behavioral monitoring to be used as a method for assessing the influence of visitors on zoo animals [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]