Modelling and predicting mammalian wildlife abundance and distribution in semi-arid Gonarezhou National Park, south eastern Zimbabwe

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to model and predict mammalian herbivore species abundance in Gonarezhou National Park (GNP), south eastern Zimbabwe. The study also aims to determine and evaluate the distribution-abundance patterns in GNP. Design/methodology/approach Using aerial survey data from 1980 to 2016, the authors use the rank-abundance model to determine the abundance of mammalian herbivores in GNP. Regression analysis is used to show the mammalian herbivore species distribution-abundance relationship. Findings The findings point to a high species richness and evenness in the study area with common species (15%), intermediate (30%) and rare (60%). There is a positive significant relationship (p = 0.00, R2 = 0.9642) between abundance and distribution with common species occupying wider spaces and rare species occupying narrow spaces. Research limitations/implications Aerial surveys in GNP are not continuous and are biased towards elephants. The inclusion of other mammalian herbivore species including domestic animals in subsequent surveys made the aerial reports useful. Originality/value Studies in GNP have tended to concentrate on the population of mammalian herbivores and this marks a shift in emphasis in such studies. The monitoring of mammalian species improves the conservation and management of GNP. Apart from making planning and policy decisions from an informed point of view small animals also need attention as they are numerically few than the large threatened mammals.

Assessing Distribution Patterns and the Relative Abundance of Reintroduced Large Herbivores in the Limpopo National Park, Mozambique

“…The understanding of spatial distribution and abundance of LH in African savanna ecosystems is critical for adaptive management of species and their habitats [45,46]. Since the beginning of the LNP restoration program in 2001 [36,39], to our knowledge there are no studies to understand the stage of its course, the adaptation of reintroduced LH to the new habitats after release and their ability to invade and colonize other habitats outside the release site.…”