Abundance, Distribution and Feeding Habit of Western Hartebeest in Borgu Sector of Kainji Lake National Park, Nigeria

Abstract

The study assessed abundance, distribution and feeding habits of western hartebeest in Borgu Sector of Kainji Lake National Park, Nigeria. Six plant habitats/associations were used for data collection. Six
transects of 5km in length were laid in the habitats. Data collected were subjected to King Census model, descriptive statistics and food preference ranking. The results obtained showed 296 individuals recorded
with absolute population density of 6.00/km2 . Distribution of individuals were 168, 62 and 66 for adults,
sub-adults and juveniles with 152 males and 144 females. Habitats distribution of species indicated
Isobelia afzelia hosting higher animal species (31.41%) while Burkea africana-Detarium microcarpum
had the lowest (6.76%). For plants parts utilized, grasses, leaves and stems were mostly utilized (15.22%)
than tree leaves and seeds (2.17%). Grasses/forbs were preferred (63.64%) than trees and shrubs (36.96%). Abundance and chemical composition/analysis of the preferred forage in the study area is highly recommended.