Survey of Large Mammals in Komto National Forest Priority, East Wollega Zone, Ethiopia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.20372/star.v12i2.03Keywords:
Abundance, Diversity, Komto Forest, Large MammalsAbstract
This study aimed to collect land marking data on large mammals in western Ethiopia's Komto National Forest Priority. Using the line transect method, the survey collected direct and indirect observations, including footprints, pugmarks, tracks, feces, and sounds. The large mammal species were categorized into 11 families, 19 species, and 5 orders. The most diverse family was Cercopithecoidea, followed by Suidae. The study aimed to provide valuable insights into the mammal population. The study analyzed the abundance of various carnivore species in a specific area, with Colobus guerza being the most abundant species. However, common jackal and bushbuck had low densities, attributed to higher bushmeat hunting practices and high human disturbance. The lower abundance of bushbuck was attributed to their secretive nature and the presence of high human disturbance, while the lower abundance of large carnivores was attributed to their secretive nature. As carnivores are at the top trophic level, their rarity can significantly affect the ecological balance and biodiversity of the area in the long run unless appropriate actions are taken to minimize human disturbance in and around Komto Forest Priority Area, western Ethiopia.
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