Abstract 35 – Past and Present Distribution Ranges of the Asiatic Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus)

Unza Waqar, Tariq Mahmood, Muhammad Mushtaq, Muzna Kashaf, Shehar Bano,
Ayesha Sheraz, Kainat Zamir, Syeda Qanitah Ayesha, Nuzhat Naseem

The Asiatic black bear, Ursus thibetanus, is a species of ecological importance, yet our
understanding of its historical distribution remains limited. While its current distribution is
available on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, there is a lack of information regarding its
past range. Our study aimed to address this gap by investigating the historical distribution of
the Asiatic black bear, mapping its total range, and comparing it with the current distribution.
Additionally, we analyzed protected areas within both historical and current ranges to assess
changes over time.
Using Geographic Information System (GIS) software, we reconstructed the historical range,
utilizing published records of the species' occurrence throughout history. The results revealed a
significant contraction in the Asiatic black bear's range, with the historical span covering
approximately 15.86 million km², compared to the current distribution of about 7.85 million
km² – indicating a reduction of approximately 49.5% (8.02 million km²).
Furthermore, the study explored the network of protected areas, noting a decrease of 27.5% in
the number of protected areas within the historical range, emphasizing the urgent need for
conservation efforts. The total protected area in historical ranges was 9,933, covering 0.946
million km², while the current range comprises 6,580 areas, totaling 0.667 million km².
This research contributes valuable insights into the historical dynamics of the Asiatic black
bear's distribution, providing a foundation for more effective conservation strategies. The
utilization of GIS tools allows for a comprehensive exploration of factors influencing the species'
decline, emphasizing the importance of proactive management and conservation measures.
These findings underscore the critical need for conservation efforts to safeguard the Asiatic
black bear's population and its habitat for the present and future.