Investigating the Conservation status of the endangered pygmy hippopotamus in Sapo National Park
1991 James Gbeaduh1
11991, Monrovia, Liberia, 2Kerwillain S.P, Monrovia, Liberia, 3Varney M, Monrovia, Liberia, 4Freeman B., Monrovia, Liberia, 5Molokwu-Odozi M.N, Monrovia, Liberia, 6Phillips K., Cambridge, UK
Abstract:
Sapo National Park (SNP), Liberia’s largest protected area is globally recognized as a biodiversity hotspot and a stronghold for many threatened species in the Upper Guinea Rainforest, including the endangered pygmy hippopotamus hoeropsis liberiensis. However, little is known about the current status (distribution, population density and threats) of these species, particularly the pygmy hippopotamus in SNP. To address this data gap, this study surveyed 62 transects of 2 km each across the SNP and set up camera traps in the south-western part of the park where the first footage of this species was recorded in 2011. Pygmy hippopotamus signs were recorded on 11 transects with an estimate of about 22 individuals. Out of 24 camera traps, pygmy hippopotamus were captured by four cameras in 178 images. A distribution map generated from the survey showed high concentration of the species in the south-western part of the park compared to other areas. In addition, hunting signs including hunting trails/tracks, hunting camos and gun shells were recorded and increasing mining activity was also observed in this part of the park. While this study reconfirms the presence of the species in SNP, the presence of anthropogenic threats in the areas where the pygmy hippopotamus is present, plus anecdotal evidence from local communities about the killing of the animal suggests that they face huge existential threats. Findings from this study has provided baseline information for future research and inform management practices aimed at more effectively managing SNP as an important habitat for pygmy hippopotamus.
Biography:
James W. Gbeaduh holds an Associate of Science degree in Natural Resource Management from the Nimba County Community College. He has over three years of progress experience in tropical biodiversity conservation.
A strong, energetic and motivated young conservationist with proven experience in conducting ecological and social surveys in areas of high conservation priority. He, investigated the distribution, abundance and threats affecting biodiversity especially species of global conservation concern including the endangered Pygmy hippopotamus and Western Chimpanzeein Sapo National Park. Proven expertise in camera trapping, biomonitoring, and Carbon survey with Fauna & Flora International.