HABITAT PREFERENCE AND UTILIZATION PATTERN OF PANGOLIN IN OLD OYO NATIONAL PARK AND IDANRE FOREST RESERVE NIGERIA

Abstract

The study assessed habitat preference and utilization of pangolin species in Old Oyo National Park (OONP) and Idanre Forest Reserve (IFR) Nigeria between August, 2016 and February 2017. Three ranges were selected in OONP and five locations were chosen in IFR for the study. Data were collected using Focus Group Discussion (FGD), oral and written interview, market survey and field observations. Eight groups were constituted in OONP and 4 groups in IFR. The park rangers and research officers were also interviewed; while 5 markets were visited in the two areas. Sixty questionnaires (OONP =40; IFR =20) were administered purposively to bush meat traders and traditional herbalists in the local communities. Fifteen line transects (10 in OONP and 5 in IFR) was established and walked. Random search method was also employed. Vegetation assessment was done using quadrat method while other characteristic features of pangolin habitat (ant hill, tree holes, dead wood, and water source) were also recorded. Data were described using frequency and charts while mean height and DBH of woody trees in the two protected areas was analyzed using T-test. Significant difference within each micro-habitat was analyzed using one-way ANOVA. Diversity indices of tree species were calculated using PAST Software (Version 16). One species of pangolin (Manis tricuspis) was directly sighted in OONP while the evidence and information gathered from respondents both in OONP and IFR confirmed the presence of Manis tricuspis and Manis tetradactyla. The animal was found close to sources of water. Locations where pangolins were sighted is similar in plant species composition and structural arrangement in both OONP and IFR. In both study areas pangolins are use as sources of food and medicine. The result of this study is therefore important to the management of the population of pangolin species not only in OONP but also IFR where the animals were not directly sighted.