Population size, habitat preference, and feeding ecology of the common bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus decula) in Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia

A stable population of common bushbucks (Tragelaphus scriptus decula) was observed in Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia, with no significant seasonal variation between wet and dry seasons. The study, conducted from August 2018 to March 2019, documented a total of 99 and 102 individuals during the wet and dry seasons, respectively, with adults constituting 64.5% of the population. Feeding ecology analysis revealed a preference for 37 plant species, predominantly herbs (62%), followed by shrubs (16.2%) and trees (13.5%). Cyanotis barbata and Alchmila pedata were the most consumed species, while Gladiolus abyssinicus and Pterocephalus frutescens were least preferred. The study also found a significant difference in plant part consumption between seasons, with young leaves and shoots being the primary diet. Recommendations include long-term habitat and population monitoring to inform broader ecosystem management and biodiversity protection.

Negussie, F., Moges, E., & Abebe, B. (2025). Population size, habitat preference, and feeding ecology of the common bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus decula) in Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia. BMC Zoology, 10(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40850-025-00234-2