Changes in utilization of canal crossing structures by desert mammal communities during the COVID-19 lockdown

Wildlife crossing structures (WCSs) are widely adopted for alleviating the
negative impacts caused by anthropogenic linear infrastructures (ALIs).
However, research on canal WCSs in desert environments remains scarce,
particularly regarding how anthropogenic disturbance influences their
utilization by desert mammals. Using long-term camera trap monitoring data
from northern Xinjiang, China, we examined the dynamics of desert mammals
in utilizing canal WCSs. Leveraging the quasi-experimental conditions
created by COVID-19, we investigated the changes in encounter rates,
activity patterns and potential predator-prey interactions before, during,
and after the lockdown. Focusing on four focal species (Red fox Vulpes
vulpes, Goitered gazelle Gazella
subgutturosa, Gray wolf Canis lupus, and Tolai
hare Lepus tolai), we observed annual activity
periodicity and increased encounter rates during lockdown. Activity
patterns shifted in species-specific ways, influenced by diel phenotypes.
Predator-prey interaction was further complicated by changes in
anthropogenic disturbance. Our findings highlight how local environment
and species traits jointly shape wildlife responses to anthropogenic
disturbance. Species-specific reactions during the pandemic were
influenced by tolerance to anthropogenic disturbance, reflected by
functional traits and population status. Changes in predator-prey
interaction like more distinct avoidance behaviours can exacerbate the
system’s instability, further underscore the importance of minimizing
human impact.  Practical implication. Our research represents a
pioneering effort in understanding the impacts of COVID-19 lockdown on
wildlife utilization of canal WCSs. The
findings may guide ecological
conservation efforts and inform effective WCSs
construction in arid regions. We recommend implementing vehicle
management measures and enhancing structural complexity to alleviate the
negative impacts of anthropogenic disturbances and improve WCSs
performance.