Abstract: Habitat loss and fragmentation are the major threats to many endangered species. Establishing ecological corridors can mitigate the negative effects of habitat fragmentation and connect isolated giant panda populations. To understand the patterns in changes of habitat connectivity among local populations of giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca), we analyzed the dynamics and influencing factors of suitability and connectivity of suitable habitats for giant pandas in three adjacent reserves (Mabian Dafengding, Meigu Dafengding and Mamize) in Liangshan Mountains using data from the third and fourth National Survey of giant pandas (the 3rd survey in 2000 and the 4th survey in 2010). The results showed that the highly suitable habitat area of giant pandas increased by 73 km² from 3rd to 4th survey, mainly distributed in Mabian Dafengding and Meigu Dafengding nature reserves, while decreased by 4 km² in the junction regions of those two reserves. The areas with decreased connectivity were mainly distributed in Meigu Dafengding Reserve and the north of Mabian Dafengding Reserve, with an area of 625 km², and the overall connectivity in the study area showed a downward trend from 3rd to 4th survey. The area of increased connectivity was 617 km² in the southern part of Mabian Dafengding Reserve and Mamize Reserve. In addition, the least-cost path method was used to simulate the distribution of giant panda potential corridors. The total length of potential corridor was 5130 km in the 3rd survey and 4003 km in the 4th survey, with a reduction of 1127 km from the 3rd to 4th survey. We analyzed the reasons for the changes of suitable habitat distribution and habitat connectivity of giant pandas by combining conservation policies with the economic development characteristics of the surrounding communities. We found that with the implementation of relevant conservation policies (e.g., The Natural Forest Conservation Program and Grain to Green Program), forest ecosystems and giant panda habitats were effectively protected. However, due to the adjustment of the livelihood mode of local residents (from relying on traditional agriculture to animal husbandry which could provide higher economic value), the intensity of human activities in some areas had been increased, which hindered the connectivity of giant panda habitats. We suggest that local conservation and management departments need strictly manage the emerging human disturbances to ensure better connectivity of giant panda population, so as to protect the stability and growth of local giant panda population.

Key words: giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca), local population, connectivity, ecological corridor, Liangshan Mountains.