Use of logging roads by large mammals in a timber concession of southeast Cameroon

Abstract

The creation of roads and skid trails by logging operations leads to changes in the structure of the forest habitat and could influence the movement patterns of wildlife. This study aims to assess the influence of the creation of logging roads on the movements of six emblematic species of the Central African forests. We conducted camera traps and dung surveys on three types of tracks (secondary roads, skid trails and elephant paths) in a logging concession in south-east Cameroon. The results of these surveys were used to calculate relative abundance indices (RAI) and kilometre abundance indices (KAI) respectively. Data were analysed by ANOVAs using environmental and behavioural factors. The results showed no significant effects of any of the environmental factors on the indices of abundance of gorillas (Gorilla gorilla Savage), chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes Blumenbach) and leopards (Panthera pardus Linnaeus). In contrast, significantly higher indices of abundance on secondary roads was generally observed for forest elephants (Loxodonta cyclotis Matschie), buffaloes (Syncerus caffer Sparrman) and bongos (Tragelaphus eurycerus Ogilby). Differences in track use between day and night were observed, with gorillas and chimpanzees being more detected during the day and elephants being more detected at night. Movement patterns did not appear to be different between solitary individuals and groups. In general, the results indicate that large mammals use secondary roads and skid trails in their movement patterns. Secondary roads seem to facilitate the movement of elephants, buffaloes and bongos. Herbivores seem to take advantage of the pioneer herbaceous vegetation that grows on secondary roads and skid trails to feed. Changes in track use could have ecological consequences in forest structure and composition and has implications for conservation measures (particularly anti-poaching) to be implemented. Further studies should be conducted to increase sampling rates over time and space to consider seasonality, vegetation growth, geographical variability and anthropogenic influence.