Population census of the chimpanzees in the Kalinzu Forest, Uganda: Comparison between methods with nest counts

Abstract

ABSTRACT. The population of chimpanzees in the Kalinzu Forest, Uganda was censused with nest counts using the line-transect method. Four methods were examined to estimate density. The estimated densities, ranging from 2.0 to 4.7 chimpanzees per km 2, all indicated a high population density, in comparison with other chimpanzee habitats. Moreover, the density in the logged area of the Kalinzu Forest was higher than that in the unlogged area. Several factors are thought to contribute to the high density in the Kalinzu Forest. Notable are the mosaic forest structure dominated by mature forest with patches of logged areas, selective logging of non-food tree species of chimpanzees, and low hunting pressure. These results suggest that selective logging may be a practical means of primate conservation in places where timbers are exploited.

Best practice guidelines for surveys and monitoring of great ape populations

“…Il est important de distinguer les différentes caractéristiques des nids lorsque des espèces sont sympatriques (Tutin et al 1995). Sanz et al (2007) (Plumptre et Reynolds 1994Hashimoto 1995;Furuichi et al 2001 (Tutin et Fernandez 1984). Pour prendre en compte la rapidité de dégradation de certains types de nids de gorilles, il faudrait parcourir les transects à des intervalles plus rapprochés.…”

<Notes> Chimpanzees of the Kalinzu Forest, Uganda.

“…7 chimpanzees per km2 (2). Moreover, I showed that the density in the logged area was higher than that in the unlogged area.…”

<Note> First Assessment of Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes troglodytes) density and bedding behaviour in the Pongara National Park, Gabon

“…1). between the time and means available and the precision required for this study 6,7,8 . A total of 41.16 km in 17 line transects (mean length: 2.4 km; [1.8-3.3]) distant of at least 500 m from each other, were covered in the terra firma of the Pongara peninsula (Fig.…”