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Evaluation of Hunters’ Returns on Major Bush Meat Species in Amansea and its Environs, South Eastern Nigeria

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Author Affiliations

  • 1Bio-conservation Unit, Department of Zoology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, NIGERIA
  • 2Bio-conservation Unit, Department of Zoology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, NIGERIA
  • 3Bio-conservation Unit, Department of Zoology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, NIGERIA
  • 4Bio-conservation Unit, Department of Zoology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, NIGERIA
  • 5Bio-conservation Unit, Department of Zoology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, NIGERIA

Res. J. Animal, Veterinary and Fishery Sci., Volume 1, Issue (7), Pages 5-9, August,24 (2013)

Abstract

A 4-month survey and interviews on hunters in a central bush meat centre Ugwuoba, an environ of Amansea Awka, Nigeria were undertaken from October through January 2011; when hunting was at its peak due to dry season to evaluate their returns though it was learnt that it occurs all year round. The result shows a total of 1,310 carcasses valued at a gross profit (N1,996,230.3) approximately (12,634.4 USD) belonging to four different species; Thryonomys swinderianus (728), Cephalopus maxwelli (504), Atherurus africanus (72) and Cricetomys gambianus (6) in number. The hunters reported that virtually all major bush meat are hunted for sale since it is their means of livelihood, noting that monkeys are excluded due to traditional reasons. T. swinderianus was found to be the highest in demand and most prominent having a relative abundance (55.5). It was followed by C. Maxwelli (38.5), A. africanus (5.5) and C. gambianus (0.5) being the least. The average length of each species, which were 25.5; 39.5; 22.1; 21.9 respectively revealed a severe hunting pressure in the area as these when compared to average standard length of mature ones are far below standard. A higher number of males were recorded in T. swinderianus (0.52) followed by A. africanus (0.56) and then C. gambianus (0.83) while a higher number of females were recorded in C. maxwelli (0.52). Lunar influences on hunting were also suspected. The result of this experiment when subjected to Simpson-s Diversity Index showed that there is an average biodiversity in the area at (D = 0.5). It is hereby recommended that conservation measures should be adopted to enhance sustainability as wildlife do not only support animal protein supply but play a significant role in rural economy.

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