Monitoring on abundance and distribution of water monitors (Varanus salvator) in Kasetsart University Bangkhen Campus: A case study at Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand

Abstract

Monitoring on abundance and distribution of Water monitors in an area of urban, changing land use, In the Kasetsart University Bangkhen Campus. The survey was conducted three times between July and November in 2012, 2018 and 2021. Use 2 survey methods were used transects and live traps to implant a microchip (PIT tag) on water monitors in the study area. Population size was analyzed using the R program in the package Rcapture (capture-recapture). From the line transect method and live trap, The water monitor distribution was concentrated along the water sources in the Kasetsart University, Bangkhen campus, The area where the most water monitors were found was the lotus pond next to the main auditorium, as well as Sam Buraphachan Monument area and the men's dormitory area. From the two survey methods it was found that the area where water monitors were not present was the pond area behind the Chulabhorn Swimming Pool and the Kasetsart University Laboratory Center for Educational Research and Development. We found the prevalence, population size and density increase during water monitors every year of the study. Therefore, there should be continuous Monitoring of abundance and distribution. and study the capacity to accommodate the population within the area and develop the area as a model for managing water monitor populations in urban areas.