An outline of the ecology and behaviour of the red lechwe (Kobus leche leche Gray, 1850)
Loading...
Date
1979
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
In a number of publications serious concern has been expressed about
'the status of lechwe in the Kwando/Linyanti/Chobe system. Concern
has also been expressed about the effects of possible water extraction
from the Okavango Delta on the habitat of lechwe in the delta. This
study was motivated by this concern and was undertaken to provide
information that would facilitate the conservation and management
of lechwe in Botswana.
Continuous field work on the western edge of the Linyanti Swamp
began in January 1975 and ended in May 1977. Follow-up visits were
made in February/March and September/October 1979.
Data were collected on the following: variation in water l6vels,
physiognomic and floristic characteristics of lechwe habitat, age
determination, food habits, habitat use, distribution,condition growth,
reproduction, non-social behaviour, social behaviour and organjsation
and population status.
From data collected it was concluded that, although there was no
indication of a drastic population decline, the prevailing high water
levels in the system were causing a downward trend in the population
by pushing the animals into poorer quality habitat. The decline in
the quality of the habitat available to the population was reflected
by high juvenile mortality and reduced fecundity of young females.
On the basis of the findings of this study a strategy for the conservation
and management of lechwe in the Linyanti Swamp is proposed.
Description
Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 1980.
Keywords
Bovidae., Antelopes., Theses--Zoology.