Population size and diurnal activity patterns of Bohor reedbuck (Redunca redunca Pallas, 1767) in the compound of Alage Agricultural College, Central Rift Valley of Ethiopia

Abstract

Abstract Bohor reedbuck is a medium-sized, even-toed ungulate species endemic to Africa. Its population is gradually declining, and an estimation of Meta populations is required to determine its current population status and as an input for conservation action. To this end, this study aimed to investigate this species’ population size and diurnal activity patterns in the compound of Alage Agricultural College, Central rift valley of Ethiopia. A total count was conducted to determine the population size of Bohor reedbuck by dividing the study area into different blocks. Continuous focal animal observations were used to collect data on activity patterns by recording group activities with five minutes intervals. The results revealed that the mean population size of Bohor reedbuck counted during the study period was (SE) with a density of 1.74 per km2. Females formed the dominant group in the population. From the mean total population size of Bohor reedbucks, 47.42% were adults. The mean group size of Bohor reedbuck was (SE). Feeding (, 45.81%) was the dominant mean diurnal activity pattern of Bohor reedbuck, followed by Resting (, 31.91%), whereas grooming (, 3.51%) was the least performed activity. There was a significant difference between the diurnal activities performed by Bohor reedbuck (). The studied compound is an important refuge for this species, and minimum management interference can increase the population size of Bohor reedbuck in the area.