Masters Degrees (Conservation Ecology and Entomology)

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Browsing Masters Degrees (Conservation Ecology and Entomology) by Author "Briers-Louw, Willem Daniel"

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    Ecology of apex predators in Majete Wildlife Reserve, Malawi.
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2017-12) Briers-Louw, Willem Daniel; Leslie, Alison J.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of AgriSciences. Dept of Conservation Ecology and Entomology.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Apex carnivores play an important role in the ecosystem by regulating prey via predation. Anthropogenic influences have resulted in rapid range and population reductions of large carnivores across the African continent. These carnivores are often reintroduced into protected areas to compensate for human-induced losses, restore ecosystem functioning and promote eco-tourism. Majete Wildlife Reserve in Malawi is a prime example, as human persecution resulted in the extirpation of large carnivores, with the exception of a small spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta; hereafter hyena) population. As from 2003, African Parks attempted to rectify this problem by restoring and developing the reserve. Between 2011 and 2012, three lions (Panthera leo) and six leopards (Panthera pardus) were reintroduced. The aim of this study was to describe the ecology of the apex predators and to determine whether the felid reintroduction was successful or not. Lion and leopard movements and home ranges were determined using GPS collars. The reintroduction of felids was considered successful. This was based on: (1) reduced post-release movements; (2) lack of homing tendencies; (3) breeding success; and (4) population persistence. Mean home ranges of lion (380.45 ± 117.70 km2 [SE]) and leopard (495.08 ± 80.99 km2), were the largest on record for any reintroduced felid in Africa, which was likely due to a low competitor density. Thus, we expect home range sizes to decrease with an increase in conspecific density. Population abundances and densities were estimated with the use of camera traps. The known lion population increased to eleven individuals in five years, while the leopard population was estimated at 11 (range = 9–17). This indicates population persistence and growth. Both founder populations were small and require additional translocations to maintain genetic diversity. Hyena density (2.62 hyenas/100 km2) and clan size (5.33 ± 0.67) were the lowest estimates in any woodland habitat and comparable to arid areas. This may be explained by decades of direct persecution and poaching of their prey, or a naturally low density. Predator diets were described and compared by means of scat analysis. Lion and hyena exhibited a high dietary overlap of medium to large herbivores. Using Jacobs’ preference index, both species preferred warthog (Phacocoerus africanus) and waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus). Hyenas selected a broader range of prey, likely reducing competition with lions (which almost exclusively selected only four species). In contrast, leopards occupied a lower dietary niche, which consisted mainly of small-to medium-sized ungulates. These findings indicate that the three apex predators use resource partitioning to reduce competition. This study suggests that reintroduction is a viable tool for re-populating large carnivores in protected areas in Malawi. The current predator population appeared to have a minimal impact on prey populations due to their small population size. We recommend long-term monitoring of predator-prey dynamics as the predator populations increase to prevent major ecological imbalances. Finally, we encourage management to focus energy and resources on the formation of a managed carnivore metapopulation to establish a genetically viable carnivore population within Malawi.