Lake Nakuru National Park Research Articles

Activitybudget and foraging patterns ofNubian giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis camelopardalis) in Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya.

The activity budget of giraffe in various African populations has been studied extensively, revealing that it is affected by body size, foraging patterns, and sex. Foraging patterns show an animal's feeding choices in its environment and are influenced by resource availability, competition, and predation risk. The ability of giraffe to survive and reproduce is significantly impacted by the variation in activity budget and foraging across different ecosystems. Our study focused on evaluating the seasonal activity budgets and foraging patterns of Nubian giraffe in Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya. We used the scan sampling method to record the activity budget of giraffe which included foraging, movement, resting, and drinking water. We then evaluated if activities varied with the seasons. A total of 11,280 activities were documented, with 4560 (40.4%) occurring during the dry season and 6720 (59.6%) during the wet season. Foraging accounted for 53% of the time budget during the dry season, but increased to 57% during the wet season. There was a slight drop in records of movement (22%; n = 995 of 4560) and resting (25%; n = 1145 of 4560) from the dry season to the wet season (20%; n = 1375 out of 6720 and 22%; n = 1515 of 6720). During the dry season, females (53%) foraged longer than males (47%), whereas males (44%) had longer resting periods than females (56%). Giraffe frequently fed on Vachellia xanthophloea (67%; n = 4136 of 6215 foraging records), Maytenus senegalensis (19%), and Solanum incanum (9%) over both seasons. Overall, seasons had little impact on giraffe activity time budgets and foraging patterns in Lake Nakuru National Park. A better insight into the behavioural patterns of this subspecies will allow managers to enhance the protection and conservation of the species and its habitat. Heavy foraging on Vachellia by giraffe at LNNP has been associated with a population decline in number, so perhaps planting more of this species in LNNP could promote a rebound in numbers.

Social-ecological predictors of spotted hyena navigation through a shared landscape.

Human-wildlife interactions are increasing in severity due to climate change and proliferating urbanization. Regions where human infrastructure and activity are rapidly densifying or newly appearing constitute novel environments in which wildlife must learn to coexist with people, thereby serving as ideal case studies with which to infer future human-wildlife interactions in shared landscapes. As a widely reviled and behaviorally plastic apex predator, the spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) is a model species for understanding how large carnivores navigate these human-caused 'landscapes of fear' in a changing world. Using high-resolution GPS collar data, we applied resource selection functions and step selection functions to assess spotted hyena landscape navigation and fine-scale movement decisions in relation to social-ecological features in a rapidly developing region comprising two protected areas: Lake Nakuru National Park and Soysambu Conservancy, Kenya. We then used camera trap imagery and Barrier Behavior Analysis (BaBA) to further examine hyena interactions with barriers. Our results show that environmental factors, linear infrastructure, human-carnivore conflict hotspots, and human tolerance were all important predictors for landscape-scale resource selection by hyenas, while human experience elements were less important for fine-scale hyena movement decisions. Hyena selection for these characteristics also changed seasonally and across land management types. Camera traps documented an exceptionally high number of individual spotted hyenas (234) approaching the national park fence at 16 sites during the study period, and BaBA results suggested that hyenas perceive protected area boundaries' semi-permeable electric fences as risky but may cross them out of necessity. Our findings highlight that the ability of carnivores to flexibly respond within human-caused landscapes of fear may be expressed differently depending on context, scale, and climatic factors. These results also point to the need to incorporate societal factors into multiscale analyses of wildlife movement to effectively plan for human-wildlife coexistence.

Genetic diversity of lion populations in Kenya: Evaluating past management practices and recommendations for future conservation actions.

The decline of lions (Panthera leo) in Kenya has raised conservation concerns about their overall population health and long-term survival. This study aimed to assess the genetic structure, differentiation and diversity of lion populations in the country, while considering the influence of past management practices. Using a lion-specific Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) panel, we genotyped 171 individuals from 12 populations representative of areas with permanent lion presence. Our results revealed a distinct genetic pattern with pronounced population structure, confirmed a north-south split and found no indication of inbreeding in any of the tested populations. Differentiation seems to be primarily driven by geographical barriers, human presence and climatic factors, but management practices may have also affected the observed patterns. Notably, the Tsavo population displayed evidence of admixture, perhaps attributable to its geographic location as a suture zone, vast size or past translocations, while the fenced populations of Lake Nakuru National Park and Solio Ranch exhibited reduced genetic diversity due to restricted natural dispersal. The Amboseli population had a high number of monomorphic loci likely reflecting a historical population decline. This illustrates that patterns of genetic diversity should be seen in the context of population histories and that future management decisions should take these insights into account. To address the conservation implications of our findings, we recommend prioritizing the maintenance of suitable habitats to facilitate population connectivity. Initiation of genetic restoration efforts and separately managing populations with unique evolutionary histories is crucial for preserving genetic diversity and promoting long-term population viability.

Assessment of community perceptions and risk to common zoonotic diseases among communities living at the human-livestock-wildlife interface in Nakuru West, Kenya: A participatory epidemiology approach.

Zoonoses account for most of the emerging and re-emerging infections in Kenya and in other low to medium-income countries across the world. The human-livestock-wildlife interface provides a nexus where transmission and spread of these zoonotic diseases could occur among communities farming in these areas. We sought to identify perceptions of the community living near the Lake Nakuru National Park in Kenya. We used participatory epidemiology techniques (PE) involving Focus Group Discussion (FGD) among community members and Key Informant Interviews (KII) with the health, veterinary, and administration officers in July 2020. We used listing, pairwise matching, and proportional piling techniques during the FGDs in the randomly selected villages in the study area from a list of villages provided by the area government officers. Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare the median scores between the zoonotic diseases, source of information, and response to disease occurrence. Medians with a z-score greater than 1.96 at 95% Confidence Level were considered to be significant. Content analysis was used to rank qualitative variables. We conducted seven FGDs and four KIIs. A total of 89 participants took part in the FGDs with their ages ranging from 26 to 85 years. Common zoonotic diseases identified by participants included anthrax, rabies, and brucellosis. Anthrax was considered to have the greatest impact by the participants (median = 4, z>1.96), while 4/7 (57%) of the FGDs identified consumption of uninspected meat as a way that people can get infected with zoonotic diseases. Community Health Volunteers (Median = 28, z = 2.13) and the government veterinary officer (median = 7, z = 1.8) were the preferred sources of information during disease outbreaks. The participants knew the zoonotic diseases common in the area and how the diseases can be acquired. We recommend increased involvement of the community in epidemio-surveillance of zoonotic diseases at the human-wildlife-livestock interface.

Features of the use of ungulates by oxpeckers (Buphagus) in central Kenya

A detailed multi-year observational study of Red-Billed (RB) oxpecker (Buphagus erythrorhynchus) and yellow-billed (YB) oxpecker (B. Africanus) occurrence on a range of ungulate species was performed in two Kenyan national parks. Surprisingly observation of over 2100 individual Kongoni, in group sizes of 1 to > 50, revealed a total absence of oxpeckers, of either species, on Kongoni (Alcephalus buselaphus: subfamily Alcephalinae) in Nairobi National Park (NNP), although it was one of the most common bovid species present. There is no population of A. buselaphus at the second study site in central Kenya, Lake Nakuru National Park (LNNP). By contrast, the Impala (Aepyceros melampus), a smaller species, whose taxonomic status is phylogenetically ambiguous, but is widely considered to have evolved relatively recently in Africa, was a frequent oxpecker host in both NNP (29% of animals observed) and LNNP (12.9% of individual animals observed. Two species of gazelle Thompson’s gazelle (Gazella rufifrons)) and Grant’s gazelle (G. granti), subfamily Gazellinae, which were present in both parks but in relatively low abundance, were also not observed to host oxpeckers. The reason for these bovid subfamilies, apparently not being utilized as oxpecker hosts in central Kenya, is unclear and requires further research.

Diversity, prevalence, and intensity of gastrointestinal helminth infections in migratory, resident, and sedentary plains zebras (Equus quagga) in Masai Mara National Reserve and Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya.

The diversity, prevalence and intensity of parasitic infections are influenced by factors such as movement patterns and land area available to the host. Zebras are known to harbour various genera of gastrointestinal helminths and facilitate parasite movement across large geographic areas through migration. Despite the harmful effects of helminths and their consequences on host population dynamics, little is known regarding helminth infection patterns in migratory, resident, and sedentary zebras. This study compared the diversity, prevalence, and intensity of helminth infections in zebras with different host movement patterns and space availability. Faecal samples were collected from migratory, resident, and sedentary groups of zebras between 2014 and 2015 and screened for helminth infection. They were infected by diverse groups of helminths including nematodes, trematodes and cestodes with the most prevalent being strongyle type nematodes. No significant difference in the diversity and prevalence was observed between the "three groups". Larvae were also recovered and identified species, cyathostomes, Strongylus edentatus, S.vulgaris, S. equinus, and Trichostronglus in order of abundance. The intensity of infection with the strongyle type nematodes, was highest in the migratory, then sedentary and lowest in resident zebras. It is plausible that the migratory zebras have higher energy demands and poor nutrition, resulting in reduced immune function hence high nematode burdens. Similarly, the sedentary population had high nematode burdens possibly due to high pasture contamination and depressed immunity due to the artificially restricted movement. The latter observation is particularly important in the design and size of sanctuaries in relation to parasitism.

Molecular Identity and Phylogeny of Gastrointestinal Strongyle Nematodes in Migratory, Resident, and Sedentary Plains Zebras (Equus Quagga) in Masai Mara National Reserve and Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya

Molecular Identity and Phylogeny of Gastrointestinal Strongyle Nematodes in Migratory, Resident, and Sedentary Plains Zebras (Equus Quagga) in Masai Mara National Reserve and Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya

ASSESSMENT OF CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY ON INDUSTRIAL WASTE MANAGEMENT WITHIN LAKE NATIONAL PARK AND ITS ENVIRONS

Lake Nakuru National Park is choking of solid and liquid waste pollutants emanating from upstream more so during the windy and rainy seasons. Due to the nature of terrains, most of the flashflood water and the drainage system find its way to the lake. The strong winds from the upper area of the town collect waste which ends up on top of the forest trees around the lake. Further, at times the sewer system bursts and discharges the raw sewer to the park. These unfortunate incidences lead to damage or destruction of the ecosystem that has been protected over the years. The purpose of the study was to examine the influence of Corporate Social Responsibility on Industrial Waste Management within Nakuru Environs and Lake National Park. The study adopted Stakeholders and Institutional theories for its study. A sample of 55 employees of Lake Nakuru National Park and 15 Community Business Leaders were used for the study. Primary data was collected using questionnaires and interview schedule. It was established that an effective industrial waste management practices on the environment has positive economic effects for businesses prosperity, flora and fauna conservation as well as a sustainable environmental. Environmental conservation awareness trainings for most businesses had been undertaken. Most of the business people held some sense of responsibility on managing waste as they conduct their businesses but the issue mainly lies on the part of the consumer’s disposal of packaging materials. Consumers were also becoming increasingly aware, sensitive and alive to the fact that a clean and safe environment is important. The emerging model shows the need to shift from the traditional 3Rs to 5Rs, owing to changes in national environmental policies, which emphasis on the use of Repackaging of products in terms of quality management, and reduce as additional waste management practices, thus, a shift from the 3Rs to 5Rs. The study recommended that the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources should mobilize financial, technical and physical resources for building the capacity of the local community, and the business community towards effective industrial waste management. There should be strict compliance to industrial waste management policies by all stakeholders. Emphasis on the 5R’S from the marketing perspective was also recommended. This way, waste will be minimized and the environment will be conserved. The recommendations will be beneficial to the County Government, the Business Community as well as the Park Management. It can also assist the National government in formulating policies that can assist in addressing issues to do with environmental concerns and management. KEY WORDS: Corporate Social Responsibility, Industrial Waste Management, Environmental Education Programs, Waste Management Infrastructure, Recycling

Livestock Presence Influences the Seroprevalence of Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus on Sympatric Wildlife in Kenya.

Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) is an emerging tick-borne zoonotic viral disease with the potential of causing public health emergencies. However, less is known about the role of wildlife and livestock in spreading the virus. Therefore, we aimed to assess how the interactions between African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) and cattle may influence the seroprevalence of CCHF across livestock-wildlife management systems in Kenya. The study included archived sera samples from buffalo and cattle from wildlife only habitats (Lake Nakuru National Park and Solio conservancy), open wildlife-livestock integrated habitats (Maasai Mara ecosystem and Meru National Park), and closed wildlife-livestock habitats (Ol Pejeta Conservancy) in Kenya. We analyzed 191 buffalo and 139 cattle sera using IDvet multispecies, double-antigen IgG enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The seroprevalence toward Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) was significantly higher for buffalo compared to cattle (75.3% and 28.1%, respectively, p < 0.001). We obtained the highest seroprevalence among buffalo of 92.1% in closed wildlife only systems compared to 28.8% and 46.1% prevalence in closed-integrated and open-integrated systems, respectively. The regression coefficients were all negative for cattle compared to buffalo in both closed-integrated and open-integrated compared to wildlife only system. Our results show that CCHFV circulates among the diverse animal community in Kenya in spatially disconnected foci. The habitat overlap between cattle and buffalo makes cattle a "bridge species" or superspreader host for CCHFV and increases transmission risks to humans. The effect of animal management system on prevalence is depended on tick control on the cattle and not the animal per se. We conclude that buffalo, a host with a longer life span than livestock, is a reservoir and may serve as a sentinel population for longitudinal surveillance of CCHFV.

Examining Drivers of Divergence in Recorded and Perceived Human-Carnivore Conflict Hotspots by Integrating Participatory and Ecological Data

Human-carnivore conflict is a global challenge with complex and context-specific causes and consequences. While spatial analyses can use ecological principles to predict patterns of conflict, solutions to mitigate conflict must also be locally adaptable, sustainable, and culturally-sensitive. In Nakuru County, Kenya, rapid development and land subdivision have exacerbated conflict by isolating wildlife in protected areas that are increasingly adjacent to human settlements. In an effort to understand local perspectives on carnivore conflict, and to apply this information toward locally-based conservations actions, we conducted gender-stratified interviews and participatory mapping sessions with 378 people in 16 villages near two ecologically isolated protected areas in Kenya: Lake Nakuru National Park and Soysambu Conservancy. Specifically, we developed a method for associating interview responses and demographic information with spatial participatory data to examine how local perceptions of conflict compared to spatially-explicit records of livestock depredation in the region from 2010 to 2018. We mapped kernel densities of recorded and perceived risk of human-carnivore conflict and then tested for potential social and ecological predictors of divergences found between the two datasets. Mismatched hotspots of observed and perceived risk of conflict were correlated with several ecological and socioeconomic factors. Regions with higher NDVI exhibited more perceived conflict, while the opposite held true for verified conflict. Road density was positively correlated with both types of conflict, and both types of conflict increased closer to protected areas. Livestock ownership, visitation to Lake Nakuru National Park, if the participant's child walked to school, and male gender identity were associated with more perceived conflict reports. Education level and national park visitation were associated with more positive attitudes toward carnivores. Our results show that while observed and perceived conflict may ultimately be equally important for understanding and managing human-carnivore conflict, they may be driven by markedly different social and ecological processes. We suggest that integrating the spatially explicit experiences and perspectives of local communities with more traditional ecological methods is critical to identifying lasting and socially just forms of conflict mitigation.

Quantifying wildlife responses to conservation fencing in East Africa

The fencing of protected areas is increasing worldwide. However, the implementation of fences for conservation has outpaced scientific assessment of their effectiveness, non-target impacts, and long-term costs. We assessed landscape predictors of fence crossing sites and employed camera traps over a one-year period to investigate wildlife responses to a conservation fence around Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya. Specifically, we measured the impact of the fence on wild mammal movement, and the temporal impacts of fence maintenance on wildlife crossings and behavior. Cameras captured more than 65,000 detections of animals approaching fences, with 3626 observed crossings over 2818 trap nights at 19 sites. Using these data, we developed a guide to classifying fence-specific mammal behaviors. Thirty-eight wild mammal species approached known weak points in the fence, and 27 species were recorded crossing the fence. No single environmental variable predicted detection or fence crossing points for all species, but seasonality, human activity, habitat visibility, and proximity to an adjacent protected area were each correlated with species-specific crossing locations. Additionally, breaches of repaired fence-crossing locations occurred within days of maintenance. We conclude that popular, ‘one-size-fits-all’, conservation fence designs may be ineffective and costly for restraining movement of many wildlife species. We recommend that those deploying conservation fences start with clearly articulated management goals, that fence maintenance be informed by taxa-specific tendencies to breach fences, and that managers consider the strategic creation of wildlife corridors, overpasses, or ungulate-proof fences to link fenced protected areas with surrounding habitat.

Flooding of Lake Nakuru National Park and Its Effects on the Resident Wildlife

Lake Nakuru is one of Kenya’s Rift Valley Lakes and lies within the Lake Nakuru National Park. As a key habitat for flamingos and other water birds, the lake is a major tourist attraction. Lake Nakuru National Park covers an area of approximately 188 km2 and is fully enclosed with a perimeter fence. The park is home to about 56 different species of mammals, 550 plant species, and 450 species of terrestrial birds as well as flamingos and other water birds. In the last decade, the lake has experienced continuous flooding, increasing the lake area from 35 km2 in 2009 to 54 km2 in 2018. This impacted negatively on the available space for wildlife. The main objective of this study was to investigate the effects of this flooding on the wildlife and their habitats in Lake Nakuru National Park. The methodology used Land use Land cover (LULC) interpretation of Landsat Satellite imagery from two epochs, 2009 and 2018, and integration of the results with relevant wildlife data provided by Kenya Wildlife Service. The results, which include LULC change maps and wildlife distribution maps, have shown that the flooding impacted negatively on the available space for wildlife. In addition, the floods also compromised key park infrastructures such as roads and the main gate making it very difficult to maintain the normal park operations, and hence adversely affecting the local and national economies. The information provided by this study is useful for planning mitigation measures in respect of the current and potential future flooding.

Socio-Economic Impacts of Hyena Predation on Livestock around Lake Nakuru National Park and Soysambu Conservancy, Kenya

Human-wildlife conflicts (HWCs) may arise when expanding human populations and activities overlap or compete for space and resources with wildlife. They may also be due to growing wildlife populations that encroach on human settlements or other areas of human development. Forms of human-wildlife conflict include livestock predation, harassment, property damage, habitat loss due to human activities, and interpersonal conflict over wildlife issues resulting in injuries or mortalities. The spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) is among animals involved in livestock predation for many reasons thus leading to conflicts with livestock owners. This study focused on the causes of human-hyena conflict and the socio-economic impacts of hyena predation on livestock. The study adopted a survey research design. Data were collected using an interview schedule and key informant meetings, targeting different segments of the community. Purposive sampling was employed in data collection. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results showed that poor park fencing is the major cause of human hyena conflict with a representation of 40% (125 respondents). Despite the fact that LNNP is fenced, community members still raise complaints about porosity. On the other hand, 60% of Soysambu Conservancy is not fenced, potentially giving hyenas freedom to move from the conservancy to the community. The total estimated cost that is lost to hyena predation in this region as per the responses received in the surveys is approximately $74,740 USD annually. A total of 1020 shoats were either wounded or killed. Our results suggest that one potential solution is to completely fence both protected areas and maintain the fences to reduce if not halt human-hyena conflicts and perceptions of hyenas as a conflict-prone species.

An Evaluation of Wildlife Tourism Destinations’ Attributes, Overall Satisfaction and Revisit Intentions: A Tourist Guides’ Perspective

This study developed and tested a model integrating associations of tourist guides, wildlife tourism destination attributes, overall satisfaction and revisit intentions. The study is based on a cross-sectional research survey of tourist guides visiting Lake Nakuru National Park (LNNP) in Kenya, where no such investigation has been conducted before. It was grounded on expectation/disconfirmation theory using attitudinal approach to destination loyalty. Data collection was done through self-administered structured questionnaires. Simple random sampling was used to select the sample size of 298 tourist guides during the study period. Data on socio-demographic characteristics was analysed descriptively while the evaluation of the measurement model was done through exploratory factor analysis and path analysis. The results showed a stronger positive association between wildlife resources and satisfaction, followed by cost of attractions, park image and park accessibility. There was a positive but weak relationship between satisfaction and revisit intention. Therefore, wildlife resources, park accessibility, cost of attractions, and park image dimensions are indicators of satisfaction, but satisfaction was not a good indicator for revisit intentions.

The importance of reliable monitoring methods for the management of small, isolated populations

AbstractTo effectively manage wildlife populations, it is essential to reliably estimate their abundance. This is particularly the case for small, isolated populations, which are vulnerable to extirpation. Lake Nakuru National Park in Kenya is one such small, isolated area where an introduced population of African lions (Panthera leo) is vulnerable to genetic degradation and catastrophic events. A founder population of six individuals was introduced between 1984 and 1992, with no further recorded immigration. We used Bayesian spatially‐explicit capture–recapture models to estimate lion density and abundance based on unstructured spatial sampling. For individuals over the age of 1 year, posterior mean lion density was estimated to be 6.75 (mode = 5.93, posterior SD = 0.92) individuals/100 km2, with a mean abundance of 11.37 (mode = 10, posterior SD = 1.54), and a sex ratio of 1.38♀:1♂. Previous reports provided abundance figures much higher than ours. However, our estimates are the result of the first scientifically robust survey and we discuss why they should be viewed as a baseline rather than being suggestive of population decline, and how the discrepancy highlights the need for regular systematic surveys using a standardized framework. Given the small population size and prolonged genetic isolation, we provide long‐term management recommendations to secure this lion population.

Effects of Infrastructure Development on African Cape buffalo Behaviour: A Case Study of Lake Nakuru National Park, Nakuru County, Kenya

The study's purpose was to assess the impacts of infrastructure development on African Cape buffalo behaviour in Lake Nakuru National Park. Descriptive survey design was used in this research since it allowed the study of African Cape buffalo without affecting their normal behaviour. The target population size was 215,000 people from which a sample size of 138 respondents was derived using Brickman's formulae. Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), questionnaires and field observation were used to collect primary data. Statistical Package for social science (SPSS) version 25 was used in data analysis. Descriptive analysis is presented using tables, frequencies and percentages while inferential statistics was done using regression model. Secondary data collected through a review of government documents and environmental journals was further used to enrich the results. It was established that infrastructure development exists in Lake Nakuru National Park, and it affects the African Cape buffalo behaviour. The study further indicated that the conservation policies aided in conserving the African Cape buffalo. Recommendations given are useful in environmental policy formulation for sustainable development of protected areas in both the county level and the national level.

Recurrent Anthrax Outbreaks in Humans, Livestock, and Wildlife in the Same Locality, Kenya, 2014-2017.

.Epidemiologic data indicate a global distribution of anthrax outbreaks associated with certain ecosystems that promote survival and viability of Bacillus anthracis spores. Here, we characterized three anthrax outbreaks involving humans, livestock, and wildlife that occurred in the same locality in Kenya between 2014 and 2017. Clinical and epidemiologic data on the outbreaks were collected using active case finding and review of human, livestock, and wildlife health records. Information on temporal and spatial distribution of prior outbreaks in the area was collected using participatory epidemiology. The 2014–2017 outbreaks in Nakuru West subcounty affected 15 of 71 people who had contact with infected cattle (attack rate = 21.1%), including seven with gastrointestinal, six with cutaneous, and two with oropharyngeal forms of the disease. Two (13.3%) gastrointestinal human anthrax cases died. No human cases were associated with infected wildlife. Of the 54 cattle owned in 11 households affected, 20 died (attack rate = 37%). The 2015 outbreak resulted in death of 10.5% of the affected herbivorous wildlife at Lake Nakuru National Park, including 745 of 4,500 African buffaloes (species-specific mortality rate = 17%) and three of 18 endangered white rhinos (species-specific mortality rate = 16%). The species mortality rate ranged from 1% to 5% for the other affected wildlife species. Participatory epidemiology identified prior outbreaks between 1973 and 2011 in the same area. The frequency and severity of outbreaks in this area suggests that it is an anthrax hotspot ideal for investigating risk factors associated with long-term survival of anthrax spores and outbreak occurrence.

Population structure of giraffes is affected by management in the Great Rift Valley, Kenya.

Giraffe populations in East Africa have declined in the past thirty years yet there has been limited research on this species. This study had four objectives: i) to provide a baseline population assessment for the two largest populations of Rothschild’s giraffes in Kenya, ii) to assess whether there are differences in population structure between the two enclosed populations, iii) to assess the potential and possible implications of different management practices on enclosed giraffe populations to inform future decision-making, and iv) to add to the availability of information available about giraffes in the wild. I used individual identification to assess the size and structure of the two populations; in Soysambu Conservancy between May 2010 and January 2011, I identified 77 giraffes; in Lake Nakuru National Park between May 2011 and January 2012, I identified 89. Population structure differed significantly between the two sites; Soysambu Conservancy contained a high percentage of juveniles (34%) and subadults (29%) compared to Lake Nakuru NP, which contained fewer juveniles (5%) and subadults (15%). During the time of this study Soysambu Conservancy contained no lions while Lake Nakuru NP contained a high density of lions (30 lions per 100km2). Lions are the main predator of giraffes, and preferential predation on juvenile giraffes has previously been identified in Lake Nakuru NP. My results suggest that high lion density in Lake Nakuru NP may have influenced the structure of the giraffe population by removing juveniles and, consequently, may affect future population growth. I suggest that wildlife managers consider lion densities alongside breeding plans for Endangered species, since the presence of lions appears to influence the population structure of giraffes in enclosed habitats.

Tourists’ perceived value of wildlife tourism product at Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya

Abstract Although literature has documented many destination attributes that determine attractiveness of tourism destination, the magnitude and strength of each attribute has not been explored, especially in relation to a single wildlife tourism product. This study provides an insight into the level of tourists’ perceived value on wildlife resource attributes at Lake Nakuru National Park in Kenya, with a further comparison between the international and domestic tourists. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey and collected primary data using self-administered structured questionnaires. A total of 402 respondents duly completed the questionnaires, which were disseminated through simple random sampling. Data was analysed descriptively and through independent sample T-test. The results showed that unique wildlife attractions were most valued by tourists (M = 2.26, SD = 0.99), followed by the variety of attractions (M = 2.53, SD = 1.08) and their abundance (M = 2.59, SD = 1.19) respectively. Majority of international tourists highly valued the attributes [M = 2.30, SD = 0.88; t(400) = 4.18, p &lt; 0.001] as compared to the domestic tourists (M = 2.67, SD = 0.88), but with a small magnitude (η = 0.04). The study provides an insight that tourists value the park because of its uniqueness due to a variety of wildlife attractions. As park ecological challenges persist, park managers may re-brand the park by creating more emphasis on other key wildlife products like rhinos in order to maintain visitor value and satisfaction in the future.

Tourism Destination Attractiveness as Perceived by Tourists Visiting Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya

Tourism Destination Attractiveness as Perceived by Tourists Visiting Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya