On November 24, 2024, we gathered with over a hundred citizen scientists at the Shanghai Children’s Library to share and discuss the achievements and findings of this year’s “Raccoon Dog Census”.

Feng Yidi from Shan Shui Conservation Center began the event by revisiting the concept of citizen science, the prior work and outcomes of the “Raccoon Dogs at Home” project, results from citizen science groups in this year’s survey, and the progress and plans for community outreach following the survey.

Zheng Yunxiang from the Shanghai Forestry Station shared insights starting from residents’ concerns about raccoon dogs and introduced relevant investigations and community management recommendations by wildlife protection authorities.

Representing the volunteers of the “Raccoon Dog Census”, Ying Jun and his son Ying Yukun recounted their journey, sparked by a radio program, from curious citizens to dedicated citizen scientists who understood that even “zero data is meaningful.”

Professor Wang Fang from Fudan University used his research team’s biodiversity monitoring in Shanghai and a past tiger urine experiment as a starting point to explain the quantitative results of the 2024 census, shedding light on the dynamic changes in raccoon dog distribution in Shanghai and the preliminary success of conservation efforts.

Finally, Yang Chufeng, Director of the Shanghai Forestry Station, announced the successful conclusion of the 2024 Shanghai Wildlife Conservation Awareness Month.

Key Findings of the 2024 Raccoon Dog Census:

Based on data collected through online questionnaires and the 12345 citizen hotline from January 2023 to April 2024, 124 residential neighborhoods across eight districts were identified as areas where raccoon dogs were reported, forming the survey sites for 2024. A total of 511 citizen volunteers participated, conducting surveys on raccoon dog distribution and population in these neighborhoods, interviewing community residents, and recording neighborhood environments and management practices. The survey yielded 308 valid transect records, with a total transect length exceeding 650 kilometers. Over the three years from 2022 to 2024, the census engaged more than 1,000 participants.

Of the 124 neighborhoods, 98 neighborhoods still reported raccoon dog activity in 2024, accounting for 79% of surveyed neighborhoods. This indicates that the distribution, expansion, and migration of raccoon dogs are in a state of dynamic flux, requiring ongoing monitoring. Among the 98 neighborhoods with raccoon dog distribution, the average density was 0.44 individuals per hectare, and the average encounter rate was 1.06 individuals per kilometer of transect. These figures remained consistent with 2023 but showed a significant decline compared to 2022. Improper feeding and poor garbage management were identified as major factors contributing to localized increases in raccoon dog populations.

Future Directions:

We plan to introduce more community-focused (schools and neighborhoods) science outreach and conservation initiatives. Stay tuned for updates!