Hainan Island ’99: a conservation expedition for rainforest endangered birds and mammals

Hu Huijian

Focusing on four small reserve areas in the mountainous region of southern Hainan Island, this team of six Chinese graduate students and three reserve staff aim to clarify the current status of threatened species endemic to the island including the Critically Endangered black gibbon (Hylobates concolor hainanus). Working with the Hainan Forestry Bureau the team aim to combine accurate census, social and environmental information to propose a revision of the protected area system. Current and historical data will be computerised in GIS format and presented to the Biodiversity working group with recommendations for the creation of one reserve incorporating all four current habitat fragments. Recognising that public support of the small and fragile forest remnants on Hainan is essential, the team will join island-wide forestry bureau education campaigns.