1 research outputs found
Large herbivore dynamics in northern Gonarezhou National Park, Zimbabwe
We compared densities and distribution of wild ungulates and domestic livestock
based on aerial surveys conducted during 1991 - 2010 in northern parts of Gonarezhou National
Park (GNP), Zimbabwe. The sampled area covered approximately 320 km2 (Chipinda Pools
area) representing ca. 27 % of the GNP, which was colonized by a few herder families along with
their cattle in the year 2000. We hypothesized that (1) human and livestock encroachment in
the park would lead to decline in densities of native ungulates, and (2) wild ungulates would
avoid habitats influenced by humans. The results show that cattle densities significantly
increased after the year 2000 whereas the densities of the native ungulates did not differ
significantly after 2000. The ‘no change’ situation in herbivore populations is attributed to strict
anti-poaching measures and restriction of human activities within small portion (4 %) of the
park. However, the aerial survey does suggest that human and livestock presence in the
northern GNP did influence the distribution of wild ungulates. Repeat observations during
various seasons would be necessary to understand the spatio-temporal segregation among cattle
and wild ungulates