Presenter(s): Troi Feinberg
Faculty Mentor(s): Frances White & Colin Brand
Poster 130
Session: Social Sciences & Humanities
Duikers are a widespread family of tiny, forest-living antelope that inhabit sub-Saharan Africa. While approximately 22 species have been identified, little is known about the biology and behavior of many of these species due to their solitary and reclusive nature. Additionally, these species are sensitive to human disturbance and are often among the first species to be hunted and relocated. Population density estimates relate to how a population responds to anthropogenic, biological, and environmental factors. Duikers play a vital role in the ecological health of the forest environment they inhabit as active seed dispersers. Therefore, duiker population density also correlates with the forest health of that tropical region. From 1983-1984, we characterized the abundance and density of duikers inhabiting the forest near the N’dele field site in the Lomako Forest Reserve in the Democratic Republic of Congo, using all-occurrence sampling with standard line-transect methodology. A preliminary estimate of an overall density of 2.46 per sq. km. across all species. We examined scientific reports to conclude why the duiker population in DRC was lower than other populations in nearby regions during 1983-1984: the behavioral crypticity of the species, hunting trends in wildlife and local communities, and cross section of demographic changes over several decades. Monitoring trends such as population size and density of duikers gives insight on how human disturbance affects these animals’ behaviors and contributes to future conservation plans for the species