Assessing Grevy's Zebra (Equus Grevyi) And Livestock Interactions Through Satellite Tracking And Community Involvement In Samburu County (Kenya).

Abstract

The study's purpose was to delineate seasonal space use variations of the

endangered Grevy's zebra (Equus grevyi), and to determine the extent of

overlap of these areas with livestock grazing zones in order to identify core

areas suitable for conservation efforts. E. grevyi requires protection as their

population size severely decreased in the last century and they continue to

suffer from habitat loss. Additional importance lies in reconciling interests of

wildlife protection and livestock keeping, as this is the main livelihood for

pastoralists in the study area.

Grevy's zebras' movement in Samburu (Kenya) was monitored using GPSGSM

collars between 2006 and 2014. Based on data from 26 animals, areas of

highest occurrence within the three community conservancies were identified.

Within one area livestock was tracked using GPS collars. These data were

overlaid with zebra data. Additionally, livestock movements were discussed

and mapped in participatory community group sessions. Important map

features were digitized and overlaid with the zebra maps.

Grevy's zebra hot spots were found to overlap in all years and seasons with

negligible variation for individual zebras. Area utilisation between the wet and

dry seasons showed no major spatial variance in extent nor location of hot

spots. Analysis of tracking and community data revealed overlap of livestock

and E. grevyi grazing zones with no apparent preferences for livestock free

zones by Grevy's zebras. Considerable knowledge on the focus species and its

interactions with livestock was found in the communities with positive

attitudes towards conservation efforts.

It was concluded that scientists and conservationists should apply more caution

when claiming pastoralism is a threat to Grevy's zebra survival. This is not

only a prejudiced perception but may also put vital support from pastoralist

people for conservation at risk. Further it was recommended that community

involvement and education programmes are carried forward.