Abstract:

A binomial logistic model was established based on RS, GIS and GPS techniques to simulate and predict the distribution of nest-site of Red-crowned Crane (Grus japonensis) in Zhalong National Nature Reserve (ZLNNR), Heilongjiang Province, China. By using the data of present and absent points, a spatial auto-correlation test was conducted to screen the variables for the model. The result showed the factors affected the nest-site selection by Red-crowned Cranes included natural environment factors such as reed height and coverage, and elevation, and disturbance factors such as distance to residential area, density of dykes and roads around the nest. The model was tested through calculating the match coefficients of observed and predicted present/absent data. The correctly classified rate reached to 80.4%. Meanwhile, the model predicted that the suitable habitat for nesting by Red-crowned Crane reached to 223.46 km², which mainly distributed in the middle and north of ZLNNR. The model prediction basically reflected the suitable nesting habitat distribution, and might provide scientific basis for efficient conservation and management of the nesting habitats, and restoration of key nesting habitats for Red-crowned Crane in ZLNNR.

Key words: Red-crowned Crane, nest-site selection, 3S techniques, model, Zhalong wetland