Determination of natural distribution areas and population densities of Capra aegagrus Erxleben, 1777 (Mammalia: Artiodactyla) in Batman province

During the field and monitoring studies carried out in 8 different localities between 2020 and 2022, the distribution areas, population densities and habitat preferences of wild goats (Capra aegagrus) were determined from Batman province in the South-East Anatolian of Türkiye by using camera trap and direct observation techniques. At the stations established for the monitoring of C. aegagrus species which is vulnerable category according to IUCN, a total of 1486 data were obtained from 12 camera traps that remained in the field for 2169 days. 181 camera trap-day values were reached in the studies and the success rate was found to be 1.98 photos/100 camera trap-days. While 307 individuals (127 female; 82 young and 98 male) were detected by direct observations of C. aegagrus, 360 individuals (131 female; 117 young and 112 male) were identified with camera traps. In addition, 59, 139 and 162 individuals were detected by camera traps, while 76, 79 and 152 individuals were detected by direct observations in respect to 2020, 2021 and 2022. As a result of the findings, it was determined that the wild goat C. aegagrus prefers the mountainous and forested areas in the northern and southern regions of Batman province and has a probable distribution of 2.62 on an average of 100 Ha. The low rate of juveniles in the study area is due to the high level of male and female hunting at certain ages. This dataset provides reliable records that contribute to increasing knowledge on the distribution, habitat preferences, diets and activity patterns of the endangered and facilitating the development of more active and comprehensive conservation programs.