Research & Article

A study of gibbon ecology an ddistribution was conducted during Feb， 2004 -Feb， 2005 at Nam Lang Basin， Mae Hong Son Province， northem Thailand. At least 87 individuals in 6 separated H. lar populations inhabiting various sizes of forest fragments in Nam Lang basin were confirmed. Most groups were found in protected community forest adjacent to Karen communities. The main sωdy group inhabited Muang Phaem used forest， which is located outsid the protected areas of Lum Nam Pai and San Pan Oaen WS. During the study，3 gibbons were killed by hunters from 3 different hill tribes. The main study group (Gl) ranged within about 40・61ha in mixed deciduous bamboo forest and partly at the edge of a deciduous dipterocarp forest. Average tree height in Gl 's home range was 23.5 m， (range 2-42 m， SD= +-9.99，N = 264) and average diameter of 34.5 cm， (range10-165.5 cm). At least 57 food plant species were recorded within 1 km2 of mixed deciduous forest within the home range of group G1. The fruiting period of each species varied from about 15 days to 6 months. Ficus spp. produced fruits throughout the year. Starting times of the first call of group G 1 ranged from 0647 to 1045 h. The culture， traditions and beliefs of Karen have played a significant role in the survival of the gibbons throughout their history. Other ethnic groups， especialy Lahu from Bala and the Shan， commonity hunt gibbons. Gibbons can be conserved in Muang Phaem Forest and surrounding forest provided that Department of Parks officials are sympathetic to the local villages needs. Restoration of culture and knowledge of local minorities， together with coordinated co-management by villagers， sanctuary officials， and researchers in a site-based approach， are necessary for gibbon conservation.