Evaluation of population status and foraging ecology of Sable antelope (Hippotragus niger roosevelti, Heller, 1910) in Shimba Hills National Reserve, Kenya
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Date
2019-10
Authors
Ochieng, Benard
Okeyo, Benards
Tamooh, Fredrick
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Wiley
Abstract
The Sable antelope (Hippotragus niger roosevelti, Heller, 1910) is nationally endemic to
Shimba Hills National Reserve (SHNR) in Kenya. In the past few decades, its population
has declined considerably. Despite the alarming decline and resultant localised
distribution, a little information exists on the species population status and foraging
ecology. Different ecological research techniques were used to collect relevant data
and information on the species population structure and feeding habits. The results
showed that Sable population comprised of sex and age structures that are skewed
towards females and adult, respectively, whereas young and subadult populations
were not significantly different. Seasonal change did not have significant influence on
the diversity of food plants selected by Sable. Although crude protein and phosphorous
levels in Sable faecal samples differed significantly between the seasons, they
were within the recommended minimum maintenance requirements for wild herbivores.
The study concludes that Sable has good survival rate and potential to breed
but lacks stability in the population. Additionally, Sable forage quality and availability
may not be limiting its population growth. There is need to establish management
strategies for improving reproduction in Sable and understand the level of competition
of the species with other mega herbivores in SHNR.
Description
article
Keywords
Hippotragus niger roosevelti, Shimba Hills
Citation
Ochieng, B., Okeyo, B., & Tamooh, F. (2020). Evaluation of population status and foraging ecology of Sable antelope (Hippotragus niger roosevelti, Heller, 1910) in Shimba Hills National Reserve, Kenya. African Journal of Ecology, 58(3), 446-454.