Aerial survey of Elephants (Loxodonta africana africana), other large mammals and human activities in Waza National Park, Cameroon

Abstract

Total aerial count of elephants, other large mammals and human activities in Waza National Park was conducted between 21st and 23rd February 2007. Total counts of elephants and other wildlife species were done and livestock numbers were estimated. A Cessna 206 Stationair six-seater aircraft fitted with {GPS} was used in navigation, recording survey paths and waypoints. A total of three different herds of 180 and 66 in the park along with a further 250 migrating elephant population towards Kalamaloue National Park were counted. The herds in the park were aggregated around central part of the park along watering point. The consideration of the number of the migrating herd then put the total Waza ecosystem elephant population at 496 individuals. The total number of carcasses recorded was 7 giving a carcass ratio of 2.85%. About 21,002 heads of livestock and over 50 farmlands and human settlement were estimated in the zone abutting the park. This signifies a high level of human pressures at the periphery and thus a high potential for loss of range for the elephants and illegal killing.