Effectiveness of Protected Areas in Conserving Mammalian Wildlife Diversity: A Case Study from Türkiye

Research on the distribution and diversity of animals in protected and unprotected areas is crucial for the ongoing conservation of wildlife. In this study, conducted between 2016 and 2018 across 327 localities in Bingöl province and its rural surroundings, 18 medium- and large-sized wild mammal species were identified, including nine new records for the area. In the regions established within the study area—Yedisu, Kiğı, Yayladere, and Hacılar—the relative frequency of wild mammal species ranged from 0.3% to 32.0%, with the highest species diversity recorded in Kiğı, where 17 species were identified (H′=1.83). This was followed by Yedisu and Yayladere, each with 11 species (H′=2.19 and H′=1.86, respectively). Based on these results, the Kiğı region should be considered a priority area for conservation. At a time when concerns about the future of biodiversity are growing, studies like this that contribute to mammalian fauna will help preserve species, evolutionary potential, and ecosystem function. The data from this study will significantly support future management and conservation efforts in these key areas.