The role of Dodola Community Conservation Area for large mammals conservation, Ethiopia. 

Abstract

The role of community conservation areas for large mammals is rarely evaluated. We investigate the species diversity and relative abundance of large mammals in the Dodola Community Conservation Area and compared the results with a large mammals survey 12 years prior. The study area was stratified into three habitat types, and 49 lines transect was laid (27 Dry evergreen Afromontane forests, 20 Sub-afro-alpine habitats, and 2 plantation forests) based on topography, land use, and vegetation cover of the study area. A total of 24 species of large mammals were identified and recorded in the study area. Seasonal variation in abundance of individuals of large mammals was significant (χ2 = 26.66, df = 1, p < 0.05). We conclude that most large mammal population sizes have increased over the last 12 years. Though, the community conservation area is home to diverse species of mammals including some endemic and endangered ones such as mountain nyala and Bale Monkey, human encroachment, agriculture, and overgrazing are prominent in the area, putting huge pressure on flora and fauna. Therefore, we recommend the participatory approach be strengthened to ensure sustainable co-existence between people and wildlife.