%0 Journal Article %A $authorName.trim() %A $authorName.trim() %A $authorName.trim() %A $authorName.trim() %A $authorName.trim() %A $authorName.trim() %T Effect of the Wenchuan earthquake on habitat use patterns of the giant panda:a case study of Longxi-Hongkou and Tangjiahe Nature Reserves %D 2012 %R %J ACTA THERIOLOGICA SINICA %P 118-123 %V 32 %N 2 %X The Wenchuan earthquake of May 12,2008 occurred in the Minshan and Qionglai Mountains,where the most important habitats for giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca)occur.We took advantage of our long-term dataset on panda habitat use in Longxi-Hongkou and Tangjiahe Nature Reserves to investigate pandas′ responses to this disaster. We analyzed the habitat use patterns of giant pandas over the course of a 7 - year period (5 years pre-earthquake and 2 years post-earthquake) along fixed-width line transects. The results showed:(1)Before the earthquake,there were no significant differences in used/ unused frequencies each year for each transect line,in other words,the habitat use patterns of giant pandas were stable before the earthquake.(2)During the 2 years after the earthquake,there were also no significant differences in used/ unused frequencies each year for each transect line. (3)Panda habitat use patterns did not appear to be affected by the earthquake since in the 10 transects surveyed before and after the earthquake,the used/ unused frequencies were not significantly different between the pre - and post-earthquake periods. (4)There was no relationship between giant panda habitat use and landslides in Longxi-Hongkou Nature Reserve. Our findings contribute to ongoing habitat restoration plans and long-term conservation of the giant panda. %U http://www.mammal.cn/EN/abstract/article_2865.shtml