POPULATION STATUS AND HABITAT SUITABILITY FOR MOUNTAIN

Abstract

Mountain bongo (Tragelaphus eurycerus isaaci) is one of the critically endangered large forest antelope currently endemic to mountain forests of Kenya. Its population status in some of these forests, including Cherangani hills, is unknown. Mountain bongo population is on decline due to poaching for meat and degradation of their fragile habitats. Forest in Cherangani hills has faced degradation. The study sought to determine the population status of mountain bongo and suitability of the Cherangani hills for mountain bongo survival. To achieve this, four methods were used. First, remote sensing tools and GIS were used to analyze the habitat suitability based on five parameters: land cover, slope, altitude, saltlicks and security that favour mountain bongo survival. Second, structured questionnaires were used to collect information on the relationship between local community and the conservation and management of forest resources where 100 respondents were systematically selected and interviewed. Third, reconnaissance walks were carried out for direct or indirect sightings and to assess human disturbance in Kapolet and Kipkunur forests. Lastly, 18 camera traps were mounted and left for three months in Kapkanyar and Kipkunur forests. The results showed that the majority of local communities (98.6%) were aware that mountain bongo had seriously declined in Cherangani hills with forest destruction (56.8%) and poaching (35.8%) being the major drivers. Despite the local community’s admitting of mountain bongo presence (73.76%, n=95) in the area, camera trapping or reconnaissance walks did not indicate the presence of mountain bongo. However, the suitability assessment showed that good (197.37 km2) and optimum (261.79 km2) habitats still exist in Cherangani hills that can support up to 114 mountain bongos. It is regrettable that indigenous forest had significantly declined in coverage (R2=0.690, P=0.041) between 1973 and 2011, despite this land cover type making a good portion of good habitat (80.98%) and optimum habitat (100%). In relation to this, a significant loss of good mountain bongo habitat (R2=0.708, P=0.036) has been experienced between 1973 and 2011. Nevertheless, forests in Cherangani hills are still rich in biodiversity. The study concludes that: (i) the local communities had ample knowledge on mountain bongo and forest status, (ii) no presence of mountain bongo was confirmed in Cherangani hills and (iii) a suitable mountain bongo habitat exists. Since the locals relied on natural forest products, the study recommends that the locals be provided with alternative source of income. More research needs to be undertaken to explore on the feasibility and requirements for re-introduction of the mountain bongo in Cherangani hills.