STATUS AND TRENDS OF SOME LARGE MAMMALS AND OSTRICHES IN WAZA NATIONAL-PARK, CAMEROON

An aerial sample count of large mammals and ostriches was carried out in the Waza National Park, Cameroon, using systematic transect samplin g. Total population estimates are given and distribution maps are pres ented for seven species. Results are compared with three previous esti mates. Population sizes of giraffe, roan antelope, and topi showed a l imited increase since 1977. Rather surprisingly, the population of kob s, the most abundant larger herbivore, had increased dramatically. Red -fronted gazelle and ostrich seemed to maintain their stock. Elephants showed a significant increase of 9.3% per annum since 1977. It is rec ommended that quantitative data be collected on the increasing elephan t crop damages and that measures be taken to limit human/elephant conf licts. The Acacia seyal zone appeared to be an important wildlife habi tat. It is suggested that this habitat should be permanently monitored given the increase in wildlife numbers and the changes in local hydro logical conditions. The cost of the aerial survey was about US$2.30 pe r km(2), a quite expensive operation for local low-budget Wildlife Dep artment and Research Institutes.