Scholarly works in Wildlife and Ecotourism Management

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Abundance and distribution of Roan Antelope (Hippotragus equinus) in the Old Oyo National Park, Nigeria
(Nigeria Tropical Biology Association, 2013) Coker, O. M.; Adetoro, A. O.
Knowledge of population size and structure is essential for the development of effective management strategies for animal populations. The abundance and distribution of Roan Antelope (Hippotragus equinus) in Old Oyo National Park during the dry season (between December, 2008 and February, 2009) were investigated. Stratified sampling was used to assign nine transects each 3km long in four major vegetation communities within the Park. The communities were Riparian grassland, Mixed open savannah woodland, Dense wooded and Outcrop. The transects were traversed twice a week between December and February and estimates were based on direct ensuring techniques. The study estimated 88 Roan Antelopes for the Park and. though small, has a viable structure for expansion. Riparian grassland had the highest proportion (44.32%) of the species while, the Outcrop vegetation type had the lowest (6.82%). The population density was 0.035 km2 while the biomass was 9.196 kg km-2. Horizontal distribution of the animal within the Park showed that the Roan Antelopes can be found between 8019'27.8"Nto 8025'16.2"Nand3047'0.3"E to 3049'17.9"E. The vertical distribution revealed that they occur between Altitudes 2 74m and 307m above sea level. Strict adherence to the fire regime of the Park, provision of water holes to increase home range, periodic monitoring of the population of the animal, and intensified efforts to guard against poachers have been suggested for the effective management of this species in the Old Oyo National Park.
Acceptability of processed tiger nut (cyperpus esculentus) milk by visitors in Agodi gardens of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
(2021-12) Apata, O. C.; Rabiu, Z. O.; Alab,i R. A.; Muh’d Bashir-Adeshina, S. B.
The acceptability of processed tiger nut (Cyperpus esculentus) milk by visitors to Agodi Gardens, Ibadan was assessed. Tiger nut was mechanically processed into milk, packaged in plastic sample bottles and presented to 70 selected visitors in the garden. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics, multiple regression and Spearman correlation at a0.05. The results revealed that most respondents were female (54.3%), single (65.7%), and possessed tertiary education (86.6%). Majority (72.1%) were aware of tiger nut milk, out of which 55.7% have taken it before. The colour of the product was ranked highest (1.60±0.75). This was followed by the ranking of the packaging material (1.77±0.95) and taste (2.14±2.08). The least ranked characteristics were flavour (2.34±1.13) and aroma (2.36±0.95). The overall acceptability (1,86±0.80) of the product was high. Taste, flavour and aroma significantly (p<0.005) influenced overall acceptability. The taste, aroma and flavour of the beverage should be enhanced using fruits like Pineapple, Strawberry, Apple and Orange. Sweetener like Honey or Coconut milk can also be used to enhance the taste and flavour; in order to make it more appealing to the consumers.
Acceptability of selected indigenous snacks by tourists in tourist centres in South Western, Nigeria
(Home Economics Professional Association of Nigeria (HEPAN), 2018-03) Apata, O. C.; Abimbola, A. F.; Oyewole, M. F.
Indigenous snacks are powerful tool in promising great memories for tourists. Tourists hardly patronise them due to packaging. Attractive packaging could boost patronage of IS by tourists. Acceptability of indigenous snacks by tourists in Southwestern . Nigeria was conducted. The study was carried in southwestern states Nigeria, with peculiarity of selected IS. (Kokoro, Dodo Ikire, Akara Ogbomoso and Aadun) to the source of origin. Two tourists' centers frequently visited were purposively selected in each sampled state. Twenty tourists in each of the tourist centers were randomly selected given a sample size of 180 respondents. Tourists' age were 24.3±5.01 years. About half tourists were male (51.3%) and female (54.4%), had tertiary education (71.9%) and were single (51.3%) Most of the tourists (74.9%) earned less than?100,000.00±1,232.13per month. Majority (93.1%) of tourists had high knowledge of1$ and more than half (63.1%) had favourable attitudes to IS. Among tourists, Aadun had highest flavour (61.3%), taste (45.6%) and overall acceptability (68.8%>), while Akara Ogbomoso had the least flavour (41.3%), taste(22.5%>) and overall acceptability (49.4%). Tourists' attitude to IS was significantly higher in Oyo (107.18A9.0l), than Ogun (104.33±15.15), Osun (106.10±l5.20) and Ekiti (96.25±4.20). In order of magnitude of level of acceptability of IS, Ekiti (106.50±5.57) was highest compared to Osun (102.50±12.30), Oyo (92.85±15.67) and Ogun (85.80±l5.37). Age and educational level significantly influenced acceptability of IS by tourists, Knowledge (a = 0,184) attitude (a=0.06) and perception (a = -0.304) contributed significantly to acceptability of IS by tourists. Tourists’ acceptability level of repackaged indigenous snacks was high in Southwestern Nigeria. Determinants of tourists' acceptability of repackaged indigenous snacks were knowledge, attitude and perception.
Airport-restaurant service quality in Lagos Nigeria: an application of servqual mode
(2023) Apata, O. C.; Olu-Adeyemi, D. O
An introduction to animal behaviour
(2003) Alarape, A.A.; Ayodele, A.I
Application of multivariate statistical analysis in characterising the phenotypic variability of locally adapted Muscovy ducks (Cairina moschata) in Nigeria
(Lužianky: National Agricultural and Food Center, 2023) Osaiyuwu, O. H.; Adeyinka, O. A.; Coker, O. M.; Oyebanjo, M. O.; Akinyemi, M. O.
While there are studies that describe the biometric traits and phenotypic variations in Muscovy ducks in Nigeria, there are limited studies that employ a multivariate approach to depict the phenotypic variability of Muscovy ducks in Nigeria. Therefore, this study aimed to explicate genetic variabilities within C. moschata using qualitative and biometric traits. This study used a multivariate statistical method to phenotypically characterise locally adapted Muscovy duck populations from seven ecogeographical locations in Ibadan, Nigeria. Four qualitative traits (eye colour, bill colour, bean colour and shank colour) and eleven biometric traits (head length, neck length, body length, wings length, shank length, toe length, thigh length, bill length, breast length, breast width and bodyweight) were evaluated in 201 ducks (109 males and 92 females). To study the possible effects of geographical locations on selected phenotypes, frequency distribution, univariate analysis, stepwise and canonical discriminant analyses and cluster analysis were performed. The association between body weight (BWT) and other biometric traits was assessed using the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient. Male ducks (drakes) were generally more abundant than female ducks (hens). The most prevalent colour traits of locally adapted Muscovy ducks were brown eye colour (70.65 %), black bean colour (62.69 %), pinkish white bill colour (45.27%) and grey shank colour (56.22 %). Overall, ecogeographical location did not significantly affect (p < 0.05) the measured biometric traits. However, across all locations, the sexual dimorphism was favourable in male ducks, with respect to biometric traits. Stepwise-canonical discriminant analysis revealed a substantial intermixing of biometric traits, especially in Molete, Oje, Adogba and Ajibode ducks. Similarly, the cluster analysis, although it separated the birds into different clusters, showed some level of admixture. The small Mahalanobis distance (0.61-3.88) suggested that, with respect to location, there was more morphological similarity than dissimilarity between ducks. The correlation analysis revealed that the body weight of ducks can be fairly estimated from other biometric traits due to their positive, statistically significant correlation. In general, the ducks from all seven ecogeographical locations were rather homogeneous than heterogeneous.
APPRAISAL OF PRIVATE SECTOR INVESTMENTS IN ECOTOURISM INDUSTRY IN OGUN STATE, NIGERIA
(2013) LAWAL, M. S.
Ecotourism is a capital intensive industry that requires private sector participation to complement government’s efforts in its development. Information on private investments contributions to Ogun state ecotourism industries is scanty. This study was therefore carried out to appraise private sector investments in ecotourism in Ogun state with the view to ascertaining economic viability of investing in the industry. The twenty-eight registered private ecotourism firms (botanical garden, resort centre, zoological garden, wildlife souvenir and water recreation/natural pool) in Ogun state were enumerated. Purposive sampling was used for the selection of 65 hospitality firms (hotel, catering services and motel) within five to 10km radius of the firms. Primary data were obtained from relevant governmental and non-governmental agencies, community based and labour organisations using structured questionnaire on demography of investors (proprietors), existing government policies on tourism investments, factors militating against investments and promotions of private investments in ecotourism. Cost-Benefit Ratio (CBR), Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR) and Rate of Return on Investments (RRI) were determined to assess the economic viability of investing in ecotourism site. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi square at p = 0.05. Private investments in ecotourism firms were in resort centres (39.2%), botanical gardens (17.4%), water recreation (26.1%), wildlife souvenir (13.1%) and zoological gardens (4.2%). Meanwhile, 36.9% of the private investors have been in the business for more than 10 years. Sources of capital for initial investments in ecotourism industry were bank loan (30.3%), personal savings (43.4%), government assisted (3.9%) and informal loans (22.4%). The patronage patterns of ecotourism sites in Ogun state were weekdays (8.6%), weekends (26.1%), public holiday (57.1%) and vacation/leave (8.2%). Initial total investments cost was between N 3,155,000 and N25, 012,000. The least average price charged visitor/tourist for services rendered by the firm were N200. Furthermore, 92.1% of investors were of the views that budgetary allocations to ecotourism industry are insufficient. However, 98.7% of the investors in ecotourism regarded electricity supply as epileptic whereas 82.9% considered the present condition of road facilities and network in Ogun state as bad. There was significant relationship between private investments and operational registration of business with government (χ² = 76.89), incentive for investors (χ² = 39.77) and marketing strategies/sales promotion (χ² = 28.37) in ecotourism industry. Private investments in ecotourism site in Ogun state had cost-benefit ratios between 1.14 and 1.80. The NPV was positive at 25.0% and 35.0% interest rates. The IRR was above the interest rates with minimum and maximum values of 57.2% and 137.4% respectively. The RRI was positive with highest return of 79.7% on interest rate of 25% except for one firm which had 23.6% returns. Existing private investments in ecotourism sites in Ogun state were economically viable but in a small scale. It is important that the state government aggressively improves on infrastructural development and budgetary allocations to ecotourism for rapid development of the industry.
Assesing the knowledge, perception, and attitude of wildlife management students toward biodiversity conservation in Nigeria
(John Wiley & Sons, 2023) Ajayi, O. O.; Coker, O. M.; Agbon, Z.
Despite intensified media campaigns and heightened emphasis on classroom instruction, recent international research has reported that young people are still failing to acknowledge biodiversity conservation as an issue of high priority. This study assessed students' knowledge, perception, and attitude toward biodiversity conservation in three Federal Universities offering Wildlife Management course in Southwestern Nigeria. A total of 159 respondents (15% sampling intensity) were surveyed using a structured questionnaire between July and December 2021. The findings revealed that most students had low knowledge of biodiversity conservation. This result is quite shocking given that they were enrolled in wildlife management courses. On the other hand, they had favorable attitudes and perceptions. The result further revealed that students in University of Ibadan had better attitude and perception. We concluded that there is a need to develop and teach programs and curricula that encourage and sustain the interests of wildlife students in biodiversity conservation.
Assessing awareness on biodiversity conservation among Nigerians: the Aichi Biodiversity Target 1
(Springer Science+Business Media, 2021) Akindele, E. O.; Ekwemuka, M. C.; Apeverga, P.; Amusa, T. O.; Olajuyigbe, S.; Coker, O. M.; Olaleru, F.; Fasona, M.; Usen, E. N.; Ringim, A. S.; Adedoja, O. A.; Nsude, C. C.; Ota, A. C.; Oluowo, F. E.; Onatunji, A. B.; Adedapo, A. M.; Kolawole-Daniels, A.
The adoption of the Aichi Biodiversity Targets (ABTs) was supposed to increase conserva tion awareness in diferent countries and regions of the world. However, there seems to be a limited understanding of the importance of ecosystem services, ofered by biological diver sity. Thus, the continued decline in biodiversity, especially in developing countries. This study appraised the level of success of the frst target of Nigeria’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), which is hinged on the frst ABT. In a national survey, data were obtained from a total of 1,124 respondents (839 professionals and 285 non-pro fessionals), using a structured questionnaire. Information on the respondents’ knowledge of biodiversity conservation and the associated ecosystem services, were elicited. Most of the non-professionals had a low level of understanding of biodiversity concepts (4.9±1.7 to 20.5±3.4%), while there was a moderate level of understanding among the professionals (48.0±8.6 to 88.8±3.4%). Awareness of the NBSAP was low for both groups (43.8±7.2% professionals and 12.1±3.7% non-professionals). The study concludes that there is a need to step up campaigns on biodiversity conservation in Nigeria and promote visits to natural sites. Youth engagement through the employment of graduates of biology-related disci plines, to educate the public on biodiversity conservation and the action plan, could also be a strong determinant to the success of the NBSAP targets.
Assessment of chemical and organoleptic properties of fortified indigenous maize-based snack
(2019) Apata, O. C.; Oyebade, O. J.; Ajayi, O. O.; Ajayi, O. O.; Adebayo, I. N.; Meludu, N. T.; Ayodele, I. A.
Backgronnd: Aadun is an indigenous maize-bascd snack high in energy, phosphorus and magnesium but low in protein. it is often sold with minimal packaging under conditions which may lead to its rapid deterioration. Protein fortification and improved packaging could enhance its balance of nutrients and increase acceptability. Objective: The study evaluated the chemical composition and organoleptic qualities of fortified, aadun. Methodology: Four different samples of aadun were prepared. T0 served as the control (unfortified aadun) while the three others (T i, T2 and T3 were fortified with groundnut, cray fish and soybeans, respectively. The four samples were subjected to proximate and mineral analysis. Different packaging materials such as foil paper, polyethylene and plastic plate covered with kiln film were used to present the samples to 50 panellists for organoleptic assessment. Results were subjected to descriptive statistics and ANOV A using SPSS version 20 Results- fortified samples were found to be significantly different in their chemical composition and sensory attributes from the control sample. The fortified aadun samples had higher protein, crude fibre, ether extract, iron magnesium, iodine, sodium, potassium and phosphorus due the control. The T0, was rated highest for the colour and the T1 for taste, texture, aroma and overall acceptability. The most preferred packaging material for the samples was plastic plate covered with kiln film while polyethylene was least preffered. Conclusion: Fortifying aadun with different ingredients especially groundnut and improving the materials used in packaging will improve its consumer acceptability.
Assessment of consumers acceptability and its socio-economic effect on their patronage at U&I fast food in the University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
(2016-10) Apata, O. C.; Ayodele, I. A.; Abimbola, A. F.
This study assessed the food acceptability at the U&I Fast Food in the University of Ibadan and the socio-economic effect of fast food at the selected centre (U&l fast food) University of Ibadan, The result showed that consumers who are under 20 years of age constitutes the major age group with 43.1% and those in age bracket 31-40 constitutes the major age group with 40% for staff at the fast food, 65% of the consumers wire females while 35% were males. Also, a higher percentage earn between 51000 - 90000 Naira and 100000 - 500000 Naira for staff and consumers respectively. The level of education of most of the consumers was tertiary education and those of ' the staff were secondary education at 86% and 45% respectively. They represented45% of staff and 98% of students. The higher percentage of students could be associated.to the closeness to, Hall of Residence. The study showed that consumers were highly aware of food at the fast food, joint at 87%. This study showed that consumers patronize the fast food joint because of one of - these factors: clean environment, taste, cheapness, appealing, quality, flavour and also because of their texture, hygienic practices and preparation.
Assessment of crop-raiding along the buffer zone of oba hills national park, Nigeria
(2021) Wahab, M. K. A.; Alarape, A. A.; Ajayi, F.O.; Adafin, O. P
The Conservation and sustainable use of a natural protected area require concerted efforts of conservation managers and the local communities. Crop raiding is a major problem confronting conservationists and communities around the park area. This paper examines crop damage by mammals and birds, the farmers' experiences on crop losses along the park boundary. Data were collected via weekly counts of damaged crops in twenty (20) farmlands in the wet season and thirtythree (33) farmlands in the dry season. The study was conducted in Oba Hills National Park located in Iwo, Iwo Local Government Area of Osun State, Nigeria. A reconnaissance survey (on foot) of the park was carried out to be conversant with the park. One hundred (100) questionnaires were administered to the respondents in six selected communities due to their proximity to the park. Data were analyzed descriptively using the percentage frequency distribution test. Analyses show that the majority (67%) of the respondents at the park boundary are male. Ninety-five percentages (95%) of the damages observed were perpetrated by the wild animals on annual crops. Correlation analysis shows no significant relationship between the farmer's socio-economic characteristics and measures employed to combat and repel marauding wild animals. The study reveals that (82%) of the respondents were on the commercial farming system while (18%) of them were on subsistence farming. The crops of the respondents suffer invasion by wild animals especially the monkeys, throughout the year. On average, farmers record a loss of Three hundred thousand naira (approx. $600) as a result of farm invasion. Management of crop-raiding, in general, requires an integrated approach involving both the park staff and surrounding communities. This synergy will be surely minimized if not eliminate conflicts arising from crop-raiding by wild animals.
Assessment of Knowledge and Experience of Hunters on Natural Saltlicks of Old Oyo National Park
(2020) Adewale, R.O.; Alarape, A.A
Background: The impetus behind wildlife geophagy has not only remained a mystery but continued to gain scientists attention lately. To this day, lucking around natural saltlicks (NSs) for hunting or poaching on geophagic animals is not uncommon among hunters, especially in a protected area. Although, hunters’ reasons for doing so may seem obvious but their experience over the years had not only suffered neglect but also lack of documentation. Perhaps, understanding this experience may help unravel the geophagic impetus. This study therefore focused on the collection of information on the existing knowledge of hunter-wildlife-saltlick relationships in Old Oyo National Park (OONP). Materials and Methods: Data were collected by interviewing 18 respondents (3 workers of OONP and 15 hunters) using purposive, snow ball and convenient sampling techniques. Information gathered from the interview was subjected to thematic content analysis and was followed up by observation method. Result: The result revealed 36 locations (including Wawa, Ajaku, Ibuya, Toka, Olotaara, Olopekan, Odo koko, Ayinta, Eleekan, Ipade aaye, Alalegba, Agbon eerin, Igbo alata, Aladere, Tofolo e.t.c) that were thought to contain numerous NSs in the park. Apart from hunters and wildlife (like giant rat, kob, waterbuck, bushbuck, duiker, baboon) which directly utilize NSs, some members of the community (especially pregnant women of certain family) also utilize the NSs indirectly. Conclusion: Hunters have verse knowledge of NSs of OONP than have been envisaged and their experience is too important to be neglected. This suggests the importance of considering knowledge of members of the community for incorporation in formulating conservation policy for protected areas.
Assessment of service quality and restaurant attributes on customer satisfaction among restaurant users in Ibadan metropolis
(2017) Apata, O. C.; Abimbola, A. F.; Oluyisola, O. O.
Service quality is fundamental components which produce higher level of customer satisfaction, which in turn leads to increased repurchase intention. A significant amount of literature has emerged, which has increased our understanding of the difficulties associated with delivering service quality, however need for service managers with the tools they need to put quality control into action is important. In this study, perception of service quality and restaurant attributes and its impact on customer satisfaction were assessed among traditional restaurant users in Ibadan metropolis. A multistage sampling procedure was used to sample 126 respondents from four (4) Local Government Areas in Ibadan metropolis. Questionnaire was administered to collect data on respondents' socio-economic characteristics, perceived service quality of restaurants and satisfaction on restaurants. Data were analyses using descriptive (frequencies, percentages, means and ranks) and inferential (Chi-square, Pearson's Product Moment Correlation and Linear regression) sat p=0,05. Mean age of respondents was 29.11 years with majority being single (69.8%), male (58.7%), Yoruba (81.7%), students (33.3%), with mean income of N91186.51 and majority (94.4%) having tertiary education as their highest form of education. Perceived service quality was high. Overall satisfaction on restaurants was high 58.7%. Respondents ethnicity (X2-7.905), occupation (X2=12.750), age (r=0.295), income (r=0.226) were significantly related to customer satisfaction in restaurants. Also, perceived service quality (r=0.624) was significantly related to customer satisfaction in restaurants.
Assessment of Socio-Economic Activities and Sustainable Rural Development in Kainji -Lake National Park, Nigeria
(2010) Wahab, M. K. A.; Alarape, A. A.
Structured questionnaire was administered in five (5) sample communities around the boundary of Kainji lake National park .The villages were chosen at random due to their proximities to the park. The questionnaire was designed to collect information on the effective ways / pattern of managing a protected area and sustainable rural development .A total of one hundred (100) respondents were randomly selected and interviewed. The assessment observed that the inhabitants of the communities depend heavily on the park for a variety of natural resources 40% while their village livestock compete intensively for grazing (85%). The study revealed that the inhabitants of the villages or surrounding the parkland engaged in serious farming 90% while the inhabitant of some villages utilized the park for hunting.
ASSESSMENT OF THE ECOTOURISM POTENTIALS OF OSUN OSOGBO WORLD HERITAGE SITE OSUN STATE, NIGERIA
(2014) WAHAB, Munir, Karounwi, Adegoke.
Uncontrolled entry into World Heritage Sites (WHS) and other tourism sites may impact negatively on vegetation and wild animal populations, thereby reducing their potential for ecotourism development. Balanced site ecology and conducive socio-economic environment are germane to sustainable ecotourism development. Needed, information on these is not well documented for Osun Osogbo WHS. Therefore, some aspects of site ecology and socio-economic variables were investigated in Osun Osogbo WHS, Nigeria. The study was carried out using three sets of structured questionnaires, personal interview and field surveys. The sets of questionnaire were systematically administered on fifty local residents, randomly administered on 100 tourists and 60% of the WHS staff (50), respectively. Information was obtained on wildlife resources, tourism potentials, managerial challenges and administrative approaches. Within the three vegetation zones in the site: Dry High Forest (DHF), Dry Savanna Forest (DSF) and Riparian Forest (RF), samples of water were taken and nutrient agars were used to isolate their pathogens. Also, three sample plots (30mx30m) were laid in each zone for vegetation survey to determine Diameter at Breast Height (DBH), Basal Area (BA) and volume of trees. Point count and Rodger's methods were used to enumerate birds and terrestrial wildlife, respectively. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square and ANOVA at α0.05. Anthropogenic activities identified within the site were farming (37.3%), firewood and medicinal plants collection (20.9%), illegal grazing (17.1%), poaching (10.5%), fishing (9.2%) and crafting (5.0%). In order of importance, income (32.0%), literacy level (26.5%) and tourist’s interest in culture (23.5%) were perceived to impact tourism in the WHS. The modal age group of tourists was 10-20years (40.5%). Tourist's visitation to WHS was found to be dependent on their age (χ2 = 12.97; df = 4; α0.01). Tourists population was observed to fluctuate between 38,000 in 2006 and 63,000 in 2010, while internally generated revenue recorded during these period was between N120, 000:00 and N250, 000:00. Bacteria isolated from the water included: Escherichia coli (8xl04cfu/mL), Salmonella sp. (7.5xl04 cfu/mL), Staphylococus sp. (5.5xl04 cfu/mL), Vibro cholera (7.5xl04 cfu/mL) and Shigella sp. (3xl04 cfu/mL). Absolute density of woody plants was 187 trees/ha. Cola milleni had the highest (18.71/ha) density on the site, while Antiaris toxicaria, Anthodeista dyalonensis, Funtumia elastica and Milicia excelsa had the least with 0.53/ha each. The BA in DHF, DSF and RF were 0.75±1.9m2, 0.82±3.1m2 and 0.15±0.3m2 respectively. Tree volume in DHF (0.92±2.0) m3, DSF (0.41±1.12) m3 and RF (0.13±0.28) m3 were significantly different. The DBH in DHF (22.42±21.6), DS (20.47±25.44) and RF (11.64±7.3) were also significantly different. The study area was covered by luxuriant vegetation types and was mainly inhabited by white throated monkey (Cercopithecus erythrogaster). Sixteen reptiles, 13 avians and 20 other wildlife species were identified in the site with the white throated monkey (Cercopithecus erythrogaster) being the most sighted wild animal. Osun Osogbo world heritage site has high potential for ecotourism development. There was evidence of inadequate management and human pressure. Habitat improvement, enhanced site protection and public awareness campaign were therefore recommended.
Assessment of tourists satisfaction and perception in Markurdi Zoological garden, Benue state, Nigeria
(2015) Alarape, A.A.; Yager, G.O.; Salman, K.K.
The assessment of tourists’ satisfaction and perception in Makurdi Zoological garden, Nigeria was elucidated using two sets of structured questionnaires; in-depth interview and desk review. This paper explores the underlying reasons accounting for tourists’ tendency to repeat their visit and preferences in the garden, the category of people who patronized the zoo most and sourcing visitors’ views on what can be done to make the garden more viable. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages and line graph) and the Pearson chisquare test of independent were used in data analysis. Results analyzed revealed that student groups (70%) in primary, secondary and tertiary cycle patronized the garden most. The purpose of visitation among tourists was for education (35%) and viewing of animals (33%). The most preferred wildlife species visitors came to view were lion, elephants, chimpanzee, monkeys, crocodile, and birds respectively. Tourists express dissatisfaction over diversity/welfare of fauna species in the zoo, route network, security/ protection against hazards and the abandoned areas like the picnic, museum and restaurants. They also perceived that good management, proper advertisement, good landscape (horticulture), restocking and rehabilitation of depilated or abandoned facilities will promote patronage, create satisfaction and equally step up the revenue of the garden. Age and gender has no significant effect on visitation to the zoo (α0.05) while marital status and occupation was observed to have (α0.05). The recommendation is made that government should increase its financial commitment, improve on its management strategies and renovate dilapidated and abandoned structures to make the garden attractive and viable.
Avian species abundance and habitat association in Makurdi metropolis, Benue State, Nigeria
(2022) Gabriel, O.Y.; Abideen, A.A.; Adegoke, K.M.W.; Suurshater G.
Appraisal of avian species, especially in urban areas, is paramount to determining the health of the environment. The research focused on the abundance, diversity, and habitat association of avian species within and around the new bridge in Makurdi metropolis, Benue State, Nigeria. The habitats selected were: Abattoir (Ab), Oxbow Lake (Ol), and Farmland (Fl). A line transect length of 100 m was laid (1 at Ab, 2 each at Ol and Fl). The line transect method was used to identify and estimate the abundance and diversity of birds (at 06:00–09:00 hrs and 15:00– 18:00 hrs) aided with binoculars for 2 consecutive days weekly in June–November 2021. The Textbook on Birds of West Africa was used for the identification of the species. The dataset was analyzed using descriptive statistics and diversity indices. The result revealed a total number of 23 species (4061 individuals) belonging to 15 families. Five species (41 individuals), 19 species (2,804 individuals), and 8 species (1,216 individuals) were recorded at Abattoir, Oxbowlake, and Farmland, respectively. Ploceus cucullatus (55.68%) was the most abundant species, while Accipitridae (12.5%) was the dominant family recorded. Variation in density varies across the habitat, with farmland (723.13) being the densest area. The diversity indices indicated that farmland (D: 0.668, H1: 1.571, and richness (2.267)) had a high value when compared to other habitats. Conservation and management of urban avian species should be encouraged to promote avi-tourism.
Baseline ecological survey of the proposed permanent site of Emmanuel University, Ibadan
(2006) Emmanuel, U.I
Behaviour of antelopes around perenialwaterholes in Kainji lake national park (KLNP),Nigeria
(2013) Halidu S.K; Ayodele A.I; Oyeleye D.O; Ojo S.O.; Alarape A.A.
Mammals spend more time around available water points especially during the dry season. This makes waterholes strategic spots for close observation of animals behavior. This study assessed the seasonal distribution of selected antelopes (Hippotragus equinus , Kobus kob, and Silvicapral grimmia) in KLNP, with a view to examining their daily activities and common behaviors . The study involved direct observation and identification of the selected antelopes around three perennial waterholes (Rivers Kpesa, Nanon and Oli) 10 - 24 km apart, from high hides. The indirect method on the other hand involved establishment of three 10m2 quadrants in each of the three study waterholes for observation of the Antelopes activities and interactions. This was done from 6am 6pm for six consecutive days monthly from July, 2011 to June, 2013. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics. From the study, Kobus kob had the highest percentage of observation in the study area (62.8%) followed by Hipptragus equinus (20.4%) and silvicapral grimmia (16.8%). The average herd size was 9 for Kobus kob, 5 for Hipptragus equinus and 1 for Silvicapral grimmia. Animals in herds stay longer at the waterhole than the solitary duiker. Peak periods for maximum observation of antelopes around the water holes are 8.00-10.00hrs and 16.00-18.00hrs for Kobus kob and Silvicapral grimmia while that of Hippotragus equinus is 11.00-13.00hrs of the day. . Understanding of basic behavioral pattern of mammals will contribute in no small way to their effective management. A good timing of game viewing will increase the chances of antelope encounter in shortest period of tour.