Zeitschrift für Biodiversität, Bioprospektion und Entwicklung

Ecological Observations, Preliminary Checklist and Conservation of Mammals Occurring Within the Eastern Boundaries of Ethiope River, Niger Delta Area of Nigeria

Abstract

Francis O. Arimoro, Edike A. Kaine, Blessing O. Krumale and Smart Obiegba

This study examined the ecological distribution and abundance of mammals in the eastern Ethiope ecoregion of the Niger Delta area at three designated survey blocks over a period of six months. Mammals were surveyed by observing their habitat nests, burrows, faecal pellets, captured samples from hunters’ handbags and bush meat sales from men in the mapped out area. Survey block I was located at a commercial demanding area while survey block II and III were located southwards the commercial impacted area. Results of the ecological observations and checklists showed that the relative diversity and abundance of mammal species were significantly different (p<0.05) among the survey blocks mapped out. The vegetation cover, rate of habitat loss and hunting activities were different amongst the survey blocks examined. A total of twenty four species of mammals were identified with Cricetomys gambianus, the giant rat being the most abundant species followed by Cephalophus maxwelli the Maxwells Duiker, while Manis tricuspis, the White bellied Pangolin was only seldom observed. Conservation of this important habitat is recommended for sustainability and benefit to the local people.