Influence of increasing dryness, animal feeding strategy and human hunting on large ungulates abundance: A first approach in West Africa

A drier climate in West Africa, coupled with human hunting preferences, is significantly reducing the population of grazing ungulates while benefiting browsing species. Research in Niokolo-Koba National Park, Senegal, found that from 1989 to 1997, all but one year were drier than the long-term average, leading to a cumulative water deficit that favored woody plant growth over herbaceous plants. This shift disadvantages grazers, which are also preferred targets for local hunters. The study analyzed ungulate population densities from two census periods (1990–1993 and 1994–1998) alongside precipitation data and hunter preferences, revealing a dual threat to grazing species. Management efforts in the park should prioritize controlling bush encroachment and promoting herbaceous plant growth to mitigate these impacts.

Galat, G., Galat-Luong, A., Nizinski, J. J., & Skovmand, O. (2015). Influence of increasing dryness, animal feeding strategy and human hunting on large ungulates abundance: A first approach in West Africa. Russian Journal of Ecology, 46(1), 71–80. https://doi.org/10.1134/s106741361501004x