Wildlife depletion and its associated factors in Chebera-Churchura National Park, South Ethiopia

Protected areas are the cornerstone of modern biodiversity conservation, but their effectiveness is low in most developing countries especially for species with large body size and/or high trophic levels. We investigated wildlife depletion in and around Chebera-Churchura National Park, southern Ethiopia, from November 2010 through January 2011. We conducted semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions and direct observations. Totally, 30 preys and 10 carnivore species were found killed in 2010 in two districts around the park. Population growth, both natural and through immigration resettlement program, led to the following threats: habitat degradation, wildlife poaching, wild fire, crop raiding, livestock depredation, wildlife attacks on humans, traditional hunting culture, and use of skins and horns for cultural purposes. Our results showed the potential strong negative impact of anthropogenic factors on wildlife in and around the park and we recommend various mitigation measures