Population estimate and habitat association of Grant's gazelle (Nanger granti Brooke, 1872) in the Ene Forest of Dale Sadi district, western Ethiopia.

Abstract

Grant's gazelles (Nanger granti) are classified as of least concern by the IUCN, although their number is declining due to several factors. A few research studies have been conducted on Grant's gazelle in Ethiopia. Thus, the present study was carried out to determine the population size and habitat association of Grant gazelle in the Ene Forest of western Ethiopia, comprising the dry and wet seasons. The study area was stratified into four habitats: woodland, mixed woodland, riverine forest, and grassland habitats. The data were collected using the direct observation technique. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson's chi-square (χ²) test. The average estimated Grant gazelle population was 136 ± 23 individuals, with a density of 9/km². The adult male-to-adult female sex ratio was 1:1.40 and 1:1.26 during the wet and dry seasons, respectively. The largest herd size (N = 6) was observed during the wet season, and the smallest (N = 4) was observed during the dry season. The highest numbers of Grant gazelles were observed in the grassland habitat during the wet season and in the woodland during the dry season. More Gazelles (N = 65) were observed in the woodland habitat compared to the other habitat types. The continued existence of the Grant's gazelle population in the area and the suitability of the environment depend significantly on ongoing assessments of habitat change and management intervention.