East Caucasian Tur (Capra cylindricornis) in two ranges of Kazbegi (Georgia). Ground survey

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

1.1 Context

1.1.1 Legal Basis

1.1.2 Biogeography

1.2 Objectives

1.3 Biology

1.3.1 Taxonomy and Phylogeny reconstruction

1.3.2 Habitat

1.3.3 Diet

1.3.4 Activity

1.3.5 Social behaviour

1.4 Problematic

1.5 Status

2. Methods

2.1 Study area

2.2 Sample count protocol

2.2.1 Parameters

2.2.2 Assumptions

2.2.3 Disadvantages

2.2.4 Advantages of sample counts

2.3 Aerial survey

2.4 Material

2.5 Questionnaire

3. Results

3.1 Sampling counts

3.1.1 in Kuro range

3.1.2 in Chkere gorges

3.2 Aerial Survey

3.3 Camera traps

3.4 Tur Habitat

3.4.1 Aspect

3.5 Questionnaire

3.5.1 Answearing question 1.

3.5.2 Movements

3.5.3 Threats

3.5.4 Opportunities

4. Discussion

4.1 Final word

4.2 Opportunities

4.3 Protection

4.4 In the fu’tur’

Objectives & Research Themes

The primary goal of this research is to design an effective ground survey method for monitoring the East Caucasian Tur (Capra cylindricornis) in the Kazbegi district, while simultaneously investigating threats and proposing conservation strategies through field observations and local expert consultation.

• Design of a ground survey methodology adapted to the specific mountain terrain of Kazbegi.
• Estimation of population density, distribution, and behavior of Turs in the Kuro and Chkere areas.
• Evaluation of habitat quality and the impact of human activities on Tur populations.
• Integration of indigenous knowledge via questionnaire surveys to identify main drivers of population decline.
• Development of recommendations for sustainable management and effective long-term conservation.

Excerpt from the Book

Summary of Chapters

1. Introduction: Provides the legal, biogeographical, and biological background of the East Caucasian Tur, establishing the research objectives and the problem of population decline.

2. Methods: Details the field study area and the specific methodologies employed, including sample counts via telescope, aerial surveys, and the use of questionnaires for gathering stakeholder input.

3. Results: Presents the findings regarding population density, Tur habitat utilization, camera trap data, and analysis of movement patterns based on local surveys.

4. Discussion: Synthesizes the results to suggest future management and monitoring strategies, including potential translocations and the application of new technology for wildlife conservation.

Keywords

The Caucasus, Georgia, Mountain ungulate, Caucasian tur, Monitoring, Sampling count, Population density, Habitat selection, Conservation, Biodiversity, Wildlife management, Field observation, Questionnaire, GIS analysis, Human impact

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of this thesis?

The thesis focuses on the conservation and monitoring of the East Caucasian Tur (Capra cylindricornis) in the Kazbegi region of Georgia, examining its population density, habitat, and the threats it faces.

Which specific areas of Kazbegi were studied?

The field research was conducted in two primary ranges: the Kuro range and the Chkere gorges, located on either side of the Tergi River.

What is the main research question or goal?

The main goal is to establish an effective, non-intrusive ground survey method to estimate Tur density and to gather information on conservation opportunities to improve the status of the species.

What scientific methods were used to monitor the Tur?

The study employed a combination of direct ground observations using telescopes and binoculars, camera trapping, aerial survey data analysis, and qualitative survey interviews with local conservation stakeholders.

What are the primary findings in the main part of the report?

The study found a net population density of approximately 4.7 individuals per square kilometer in the sampled areas, while noting the negative impact of human activities like overgrazing and illegal hunting on Tur behavior and distribution.

Which keywords best characterize the work?

The work is characterized by terms such as Caucasian tur, population monitoring, mountain habitat, conservation, and GIS-based analysis.

How does Tur behavior change in response to human presence?

Turs generally exhibit an avoidance strategy, often moving to higher, more inaccessible summits or deeper into forests when disturbed by human activity.

What role does the questionnaire survey play in the research?

The questionnaire survey helps bridge the gap between scientific observation and indigenous knowledge, identifying local perspectives on threats like illegal hunting and proposing potential management solutions.