Population density and distribution of common warthog (Phacochoerus africanusGmelin, 1788) in Dabena Valley Forest, Western Ethiopia

Abstract

AbstractA study about the spatial distribution and density of common warthog (Phacochoerus africanus) was conducted in two focal areas in Dabena Valley Forest, Western Ethiopia, from May 2016 to June 2018. These were Gassi Controlled Area (GCHA) in the southwestern part and Haro Aba Diko Controlled Hunting Area (HADCHA) in the northeastern part of the Valley. Population abundance and densities were analysed using distance sampling method. A total of 246 and 652 warthogs were counted in GCHA and HADCHA, respectively. The two study areas were significantly different during the wet season and during the dry season in the number of common warthog population per transect. During the dry season, HADCHA possessed more mean of cluster density (5.18/km2) than the GCHA (2.37/km2). Common warthog encounter rate ranged from 1.1 to 3.73/km during the wet season in both study areas. The two study areas did not show significant variation (χ2 = 0.188,df = 1,p = 0.05) in the clusters of common warthog sightings. A high number of common warthog population are threatened by increasing anthropogenic activities. Common warthog's natural habitats and their buffer zones should be properly monitored: Cattle grazing and human encroachment should be prohibited.