Population status and distribution of puku in a changing riverfront habitat in northern Botswana : research article

• Published in: South African journal of wildlife research Vol. 36; no. 1; pp. 89 - 97
• Main Authors: Skarpe, C., Dipotso, F.M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Southern African Wildlife Management Association (SAWMA) 01.04.2006
• Subjects: Behaviour; Chobe National Park; Ecosystem dynamics; Elephant impact; Floodplain; Large herbivore impact
• ISSN: 0379-4369

Studies on the population status, distribution, and behaviour of puku (Kobus vardoni) on the floodplains along the Chobe river front were carried out from April 2001 to February 2003. The population of puku was believed to be in decline since the last census in 1965-1967, following profound habitat changes caused by an increase in elephants and other large herbivores in the area. Our study, however, showed a strong increase in numbers of puku compared to the 1960s. Concentration of the population had, however, shifted eastwards, possibly as a result of direct human disturbance in the western part of the riverfront. Puku mainly utilized floodplain habitat (91% of sightings). The most common observation was of breeding herds (36%) followed by adult males (26%). Calving took place year round though with a peak in March/April. Although puku have increased in numbers along the Chobe River the population is small and isolated, andmust be considered vulnerable. Apparently suitable habitats in the area, which today are little used by puku due to human disturbance, could again become important and allowthe population to increase further, if disturbance could be reduced.