Relative abundance and habitat modeling of Syrmaticus reevesii (Reeves's Pheasant), a declining Chinese endemic

Abstract

Abstract Syrmaticus reevesii (Reeves’s Pheasant), a forest-dwelling species endemic to China, is classified as Vulnerable (VU) on the IUCN Red List and listed as a National Class I Protected Species. Henan Province represents one of its core historical distribution areas, yet reliable, field-based information on the species’ current distribution and relative abundance has remained limited. Such information is essential for guiding effective conservation planning. Between 2023 and 2024, we conducted extensive field surveys across Henan Province, integrating systematic transect observations with habitat-based modeling to reassess the status of S. reevesii. Our observations document a broader spatial distribution than previously recognized, with confirmed occurrences across multiple adjacent regions in southern Henan. Observed density varied among surveyed districts/counties, with relatively higher values occurring in several areas of Xinyang and Nanyang. Habitat analyses indicate that species occurrence is positively associated with precipitation during the wettest quarter and negatively associated with elevation and temperature during the warmest quarter. Habitat suitability modeling further identifies approximately 2,730 km² of highly suitable habitat within the province. These findings provide updated natural history insights into the current distribution and relative abundance of S. reevesii in Henan Province and offer a revised baseline for reassessing regional conservation priorities and habitat management strategies.