Wetlands and its biodiversity in Southeast Asia are in crisis, as poor management and water demands continue to grow. In parts of the region, a particular community of mammals that are wetland obligates is relatively diverse and yet poorly known as studies in the region have mainly focused on larger, more charismatic mammal species, usually terrestrial (e.g. tiger, elephant, rhinos). In Peninsula Malaysia, it includes some of the region’s most endangered carnivoran species: the hairy-nosed otter (Lutra sumatrana), otter civet (Cynogale bennettii), flat-headed cat (Prionailurus planiceps); and other species like the short-tailed mongoose (Herpestes brachyura), smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) and small-clawed otter (Aonyx cinereus).

Through the use of camera trapping, we aim to determine small carnivore species statuses in a wetland site, and evaluate species’ ecological requirements. We expect to gain an understanding of how similar or different small carnivoran diversity/assemblage is in the various wetland habitats of an unprotected forest area. Local nature guides will be the main support for this project and subsequent awareness raising and capacity building activities in the surrounding villages.

This study will probably the first of its kind performed in Southeast Asia and will contribute to a much-needed understanding of small carnivore ecology in some of the most threatened habitats in the region.