gvi kenya expedition 074 report final

Global Vision International, Kenya Report Series No. 00X

ISSN XXXX-XXXX (Print)

GVI Kenya

Wildlife Research Marine Mammal Studies

and Community Development

Phase Report 074

October-December 2008

GVI Kenya Wildlife Marine Mammal Studies and Community Development Expedition Report 074 Submitted in whole to

Global Vision International Kenya Wildlife Service

One Earth Safaris

Submitted in part to World Society for the Protection of Animals Kenya Sea Turtle Conservation Committee

Dolphin Dhow

Produced by Graham Corti – Country Director

Rachel Crouthers – Expedition Leader Lucy Buckingham – Marine Officer

Anna Sweeney – Marine Officer Emma Hankinson – Terrestrial Officer

Alex Mayers – Community Education Officer Amdeep Sanghera – Community Development Officer

And

Elenedene Arnoldi Expedition Member Amanda Hrenya Expedition Member Zoe Averill Expedition Member Sanja Krnjajic Expedition Member Melanie Barter Expedition Member Keri Langridge Expedition Member Nick Beal Expedition Member Rebecca Law Expedition Member James Boyer Expedition Member Sarah Leckie Expedition Member Charlotte Carpenter Expedition Member Laura Moynihan Expedition Member Alexandra Dawes Expedition Member Ekens Okemwa National Scholarship Nigel De Mello National Scholarship Dario Piovesana Expedition Member Kelly Frick Expedition Member Cheryl Sanchez Expedition Member Krista Greer Expedition Member Kirsty Scott Expedition Member Nicola Harris Expedition Member Kate Smaby Expedition Member Andrew Hayes Expedition Member Victoria Syers Expedition Member Sara Hill Expedition Member Yvonne Thom Expedition Member

GVI Kenya Wildlife Marine Mammal Studies and Community Development

Address: PO BOX 1032, Ukunda, 80400, Kenya Email: [email protected]

Web page: http://www.gvi.co.uk and http://www.gviusa.com

© Global Vision International – 2007 i

Executive Summary

The eight10-week phase of the Kenyan Global Vision International (GVI) Expedition has

been completed. The expedition has continued to work towards the gathering of important

ecological scientific data whilst working with local, national and international partners. The

expedition has strengthened working relationships with local communities through both

education, capacity building and participation in local community events. The following

have been facilitated during phase 074:

Supplied manpower, training and resources to and on behalf of Kenya Wildlife

Service

Cetacean population assessment in collaboration with Kenya Wildlife Service

(KWS)

Marine mega fauna surveys in and around the Kisite Mpunguti Marine Protected

Area in collaboration with KWS and in support of Kenya Sea Turtle Conservation

Committee (KESCOM)

Coastal forest primate population surveys in collaboration with KWS and the

Colobus Trust

Coastal forest faunal biodiversity surveys, anthropogenic disturbance surveys and

Angolan Black and White Colobus behavioural surveys in collaboration with KWS.

Provided free local capacity building in terms of English language lessons,

environmental education, support of alternative income generation initiatives and

training in scientific survey techniques.

Participated as partners on the Year of the Dolphin committee in Kenya.

Facilitated promotion of local community based organisations’ ventures, and

supported ecological and cultural tourism initiatives.

Provided direct and indirect funding to local communities and enabled local

communities to benefit from support provided by Expedition Members (EMs) on

return to their home countries through fund-raising and donations.

© Global Vision International – 2007 ii

Table of Contents

1. Introduction .................................................................................................................. 5

1.1 Global Vision International Kenya ............................................................................. 5

2. Marine Research Programme ...................................................................................... 6

2.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................... 6

2.2 Aims.......................................................................................................................... 7

2.3 Training ..................................................................................................................... 8

2.4 Methods .................................................................................................................... 9 2.4.1 Vessel-Based Forms and Methodology ............................................................ 12 2.4.2 Snorkel-Based Surveys .................................................................................... 15

2.5 Results .................................................................................................................... 16

2.6 Discussion .............................................................................................................. 22

2.7 Development ........................................................................................................... 25

3. Terrestrial Research Programme .............................................................................. 28

3.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................. 28 3.1.1 Background ...................................................................................................... 28 3.1.2 Study Area ....................................................................................................... 29

3.2 Aims........................................................................................................................ 31

3.3 Methods .................................................................................................................. 33 3.3.1 Line Transect Sampling .................................................................................... 33 3.3.2 Primate Community Survey .............................................................................. 33 3.3.3 Primate Behavioural Surveys ........................................................................... 35 3.3.4 Bird Point Counts ............................................................................................. 36 3.3.5 Canopy Cover Survey ...................................................................................... 37 3.3.6 Fruit and Flower Survey ................................................................................... 37 3.3.7 Butterfly Community Survey ............................................................................. 38 3.3.8 Casual Observations ........................................................................................ 38 3.3.9 Colobus Census Line Transect Surveys ........................................................... 38

3.4 Results .................................................................................................................... 40 3.4.1 Primate Community Survey .............................................................................. 40 3.4.2 Primate Behavioural Survey ............................................................................. 41 3.4.3 Bird Point Counts ............................................................................................. 43 3.4.4 Fruit and Flower Survey ................................................................................... 44 3.4.5 Canopy Surveys ............................................................................................... 45 3.4.6 Butterfly Community Survey ............................................................................. 46 3.4.7 Casual observations ......................................................................................... 47 3.4.8 Primate Census Gonja and Majoreni Forest Reserves ..................................... 47 3.4.9 Primate Census Dzombo Forest Reserve ......................................................... 49

3.5 Discussion .............................................................................................................. 51

© Global Vision International – 2007 iii

3.5.1 Primate Community Survey .............................................................................. 51 3.5.2 Primate Behaviour Survey ................................................................................ 52 3.5.3 Bird Point Counts ............................................................................................. 54 3.5.4 Fruit and Flower ............................................................................................... 54 3.5.5 Canopy Surveys ............................................................................................... 54 3.5.6 Butterfly Community Survey ............................................................................. 55 3.5.7 Casual Observations ........................................................................................ 55 3.5.8 Census Surveys ............................................................................................... 55

3.6 Recommendations and Future Work ....................................................................... 56

4. Community Development Programme ...................................................................... 58

4.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................. 58

4.2 School Education .................................................................................................... 59

4.3 Adult Education ....................................................................................................... 60

4.4 Al Hanan Orphanage .............................................................................................. 61

4.5 Satellite Camp ........................................................................................................ 61 4.5.1 Mahandakini Satellite Camp ............................................................................. 62 4.5.2 Kidong Satellite Camp ...................................................................................... 63 4.5.3 Kasaani Satellite Camp .................................................................................... 63

4.6 Capacity Building .................................................................................................... 64

4.7 Employment ............................................................................................................ 77

4.8 GVI Charitable Trust ............................................................................................... 78

4.9 Summary ................................................................................................................ 78

5. References .................................................................................................................. 79

6. Appendices ................................................................................................................. 83

List of Figures Figure 2-1. Sightings of species on tidal conditions during the non-training period of 074 16 Figure 2-2. Number of surveys conducted by group size for the different cetacean species sighted during the non-training period of 074 .................................................................... 17 Figure 2-4. Spatial distribution of non-training sightings for Expedition 074 ...................... 18 Figure 2-5. Distribution of Bottlenose Dolphin sightings (n=33) recorded during the non-training period of expedition of 074 ................................................................................... 19 Figure 2-6. Distribution of Humpback Dolphin sightings (n=8) recorded during the non-training period of expedition of 074 ................................................................................... 19 Figure 2-7. Location of the casual Whale shark observation (Black, n=1) recorded during the non-training period of expedition of 074 ...................................................................... 20 Figure 2-8. Distribution of Bottlenose dolphin (Blue, n=18) and Humpback dolphin (Red, n=1) sightings from tourist boats during the non-training period of expedition 074 ............ 21 Figure 2-9. Locations of the five turtle transects for the expedition 074 ............................ 21 Figure 3-1. Survey transects on the Shimoni peninsular. .................................................. 31

© Global Vision International – 2007 iv

Figure 3-2 Frequency of perpendicular distances at which C. a. palliatus groups were detected during primate community surveys (n=12) ......................................................... 41 Figure 3-3. Time budgets of C. a palliatus between October – December 2007 in Shimoni Forest (east) ..................................................................................................................... 42 Figure 3-4. Mean canopy cover for transect sections ....................................................... 46 Figure 3-5. Survey transects with C. a palliatus locations in the Gonja and Majoreni forest reserves ........................................................................................................................... 49 Figure 3-6. Survey transects and C. a palliatus locations within the Dzombo forest Reserve ......................................................................................................................................... 51 Figure 4-1. Papier-mâché recycling to make chilli planters with Shimoni Primary students ......................................................................................................................................... 59 Figure 4-2. EMs make a fuel-efficient stove ...................................................................... 64

List of Tables Table 2-1. Cetacean species present in Kenyan waters (Peddemonns 1999; Richmond 2002) andTurtle species present along the Kenyan coast. (Frazier 1975) .......................... 9 Table 2-2. Vessel-based sightings and photo-ID surveys ................................................. 16 Table 2-3. Number of times transects were surveyed with the total number of turtles sighted on each transect .................................................................................................. 22 Table 3-1. Summary of transects in the Shimoni area. ..................................................... 33 Table 3-2. Summary of total counts observed during primate community surveys ............ 40 Table 3-3. Frequencies of behaviour events ..................................................................... 43 Table 3-4. Total numbers of trees in fruit and flower within the Shimoni Forest (east) between October- December 2007 ................................................................................... 45 Table 3-5. Butterfly species caught and number of individuals ......................................... 47 Table 3-6. Total count and composition of C. a palliatus groups observed in the Gonja and Majoreni forest reserves ................................................................................................... 48 Table 3-7. Total count and composition of C. a palliatus groups recorded within Dzombo forest reserve ................................................................................................................... 50

© Global Vision International – 2007 Page 5

1. Introduction

1.1 Global Vision International Kenya

The Global Vision International Kenya expedition was initiated in January 2006, based

on Wasini Island on the South coast of Kenya, in the community of Mkwiro village.

Wasini Island lies approximately 1km South of the Shimoni peninsula in Kwale District,

Coast Province, close to the border with Tanzania. Expedition activities are centred in

and around the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Protected Area (KMMPA) which lies to the South

of Wasini Island, and falls under the jurisdiction and management of the Kenya Wildlife

Service (KWS). Marine-based research is undertaken within the KMMPA and

surrounding areas incorporating Wasini Channel, Funzi Bay and Sii Island. The

terrestrial research is focused on an area of coastal forest in the South-East of Shimoni

peninsula, close to Shimoni village, however during this phase surveys were also

undertakn at Gonja and Dzombo forest reserves within Kwlae district in support of the

national census of Angolan Black and White Colobus. The majority of activities under the

community programme are focused on Mkwiro village, with some activities that support

community initiatives in Shimoni village. Community development activities are also

being developed in Kidong, Mahandakini and Kasaani. These are rural villages based

near Taveta, between the Western boundary of Tsavo West National Park and the

border of Tanzania.


2. Marine Research Programme

2.1 Introduction

Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Protected Area (KMMPA) lies south of Wasini Island and covers

an area of 39 square kilometres. The KMMPA includes the National Park surrounding

Kisite Island and the Marine Reserve surrounding the Mpunguti islands. The KMMPA

and the marine wildlife it contains are an important tourist attraction and, as a result, an

important resource for Shimoni and surrounding communities. The islands within the

KMMPA are surrounded by coral reefs attracting divers and snorkelers to the area.

Almost every day dolphin-watching companies operating from Shimoni travel through

Wasini Channel to the KMMPA (Emerton and Tessema 2001). These tourist dhows most

frequently encounter Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus), and less

frequently, Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis). Currently, a code of

conduct has been implemented by Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), for the tour operators

to follow when manoeuvring around the cetacean species, unfortunately it is not yet

being fully adhered to. The levels of interaction between cetaceans and the tour

operators are not being monitored or regulated in any way. The impact these activities

may be having is unknown, in particular whether current levels of dolphin-based tourism

are sustainable for the area.

Very little scientific research has been conducted on the cetaceans of East Africa and

little information is available on even the baseline ecology of these species. Baseline

data is required before the impact of dolphin tourism can be accurately assessed

(Stensland et al. 1998). The main objectives of the marine research programme are to

obtain baseline ecological and demographic data on the dolphin species that occur in

the KMMPA and surrounding waters. The study area encompasses a wide range of

habitats including mangrove forests, coral reefs, inter-tidal rocky reefs, sea grass beds

and offshore areas.

GVI Kenya’s main working partner is Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). The research

conducted by GVI has been shaped to satisfy the objectives of KWS, to assist them

towards better management of the area. All data collected thus far is made available to

KWS to aid in management plans of the study area.


GVI’s marine research programme is supporting KWS to collate data by conducting

vessel-based surveys. The marine programme will primarily focus on the ecology of

humpback and bottlenose dolphins and the biodiversity of marine mega fauna. The

collection of this data will provide important information on the ecology of dolphins and

mega fauna within the area and improve the scientific basis for management strategies.

This information can help lead towards long-term sustainability of cetacean-based

tourism and other human activities within the KMMPA and Shimoni area. During this

initial phase of the marine programme research has focussed on assessing dolphin

species abundance. Later, parameters such as demographic composition, residency and

daily movement patterns will be analysed.

Mega fauna species are also attractive to tourists and as such a valuable resource for

the Shimoni and Wasini Island communities. Their conservation is important for the

protection of marine biological diversity on a number of levels. An additional objective of

the marine research programme is to obtain information on the occurrence of marine

mega fauna within the study area. This information can then be utilised by our working

partners to manage the area accordingly.

GVI splits its work into expeditions of which there are four a year. Reference to

Expedition 074 refers to the 4th expedition of 2007 running from the 11th October 2007 up

until the 19th December 2007.

2.2 Aims

During the first year of operations the GVI Kenya marine research programme did a trial

run on dolphin research methodologies, to ensure that all the research methodologies

used were able to obtain the relevant information, to satisfy the objectives set by KWS.

The marine programme is collecting data to address the following questions on dolphins

and mega fauna in Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Protected Area and its surrounding area.

From vessel-based surveys:

Abundance and habitat occupancy

Demographic composition


Residency

Habitat-activity relationships

Diel movement & activity

Population structure

Rates of human-induced injury & mortality

Mega-fauna presence and behaviour

From snorkel-based surveys:

Identification of habitat types at selected locations

Distribution and relative abundance of sea turtles

Seasonal variation in sea turtle distribution

Cataloguing additional marine biodiversity

Identification of alternative dive and snorkel sites for tourism

2.3 Training

All expedition members (EMs) are trained for a two-week period in identification of

dolphins and sea turtles known to inhabit the western Indian Ocean (Table 2-1.), dolphin

behaviour and habitats encountered in the local area. The training includes lectures,

organised study groups and in-field practice, expedition members have to pass a

theoretical exam on a set species list and form usage prior to collecting data on surveys.

Written exams are followed by continuous practical assessments by staff.


Common Name Abbreviation Scientific name

Indian Ocean Bottlenose Dolphin BND Tursiops aduncus Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin HBD Sousa chinensis

Spinner Dolphin Humpback Whale

SPD HBW

Stenella longirostris Megaptera novaeangliae

Common Dolphin COD Delphinus delphis

Rough Toothed Dolphin RTD Steno bredanensis

Risso Dolphin RSD Grampus griseus

Striped Dolphin STD Stenella coeruleoalba

Pantropical Spotted Dolphin

Hawksbill Turtle Green Turtle

Olive Ridley Turtle* Loggerhead Turtle

Leatherback Turtle

PTD

-

-

-

-

-

Stenella attenuate

Eretmochelys imbricata Chelonia mydas

Leidochelys olivacea Caretta caretta

Dernochelys coriacea

Table 2-1. Cetacean species present in Kenyan waters (Peddemonns 1999; Richmond 2002) andTurtle species present along the Kenyan coast. (Frazier 1975)

Highlighted in bold the dolphin and turtle species encountered to date. * indicates, only 1 dead individual has been identified

2.4 Methods

During expedition 074 GVI Kenya used Stingray, a 5.83m catamaran style power vessel

with two 85 horsepower Yamaha two-stroke engines, as its research vessel. In addition

to stingray, in expedition 074 a pilot study was undertaken using two tourist dhows

(Subira and Aliklass measuring 46 and 41ft respectively) each equipped with a single 55

horsepower 2 stroke Yamaha engine to provide an additional observation platform for

expedition members to collect further effort and sightings data whilst assisting in the

provision of onboard environmental education of tourists. All depths were taken with a

Speedtech depth sounder. All times, geographical positions and speeds were recorded

using a Garmin Etrex GPS. Photographs were taken using a Canon EOS 350D digital

camera (75-300 ml lens) or using a Nikon D200 digital camera (50-500 ml lens).


Photo-Identification

Photo-identification (photo-ID) refers to the identification of individuals by distinctive

features (shape, outline, natural markings and scarring) of their dorsal fins, flanks and

flukes. Some scars will be retained through life, whereas others will be added and may

fade through life. The depth and severity of the wound will determine the length of time

this may be used for identification. These features allow known individuals to be re-

sighted. The re-sighting rate can be plotted on a discovery curve, the plateau of which

suggests population size. Photo-ID can also be used to determine residency and

demographic data such as inter-birth intervals, patterns of ranging and mortality.

Photographs can also help to determine sex of individuals by noting mother and calf

pairs (Parsons 2001).

Photo-ID survey times vary and are dependent on group size, activity and environmental

conditions. All photographs are taken from the vessel as it manoeuvres into position to

get the best angle, lighting and unobstructed shot of dorsal fins. During a photo ID

survey the photographer informs the scribe of spacer shots (to separate groups or

surveys) and number of shots taken in order to separate frames into individuals. The aim

during a photo ID survey is to photograph the right and left flank of each individual.

Making note of frame numbers and groups of dolphins assists with later analysis of

photographs from different surveys (Parsons 2001).

The primary aim of photo-ID in this study will be to determine population size for the

different dolphin species and habitat use for the KMMPA area. Once photographs are

downloaded onto the computer they are saved into the photo-ID database. For the first

year this database was copied into various users, and analysed individually by all users.

Each user quality grades the photos into categories including: deleted, tail flukes, spacer

shots, and quality categories, which range from 0 (poor quality, distant, out of focus,

partial images) to 3 (perfect photo-ID shots). Users then identify individuals by using

permanent identifying marks or features. Once the users agree on the recognition of

individuals a photo-ID catalogue will be created in which individuals are given unique ID

numbers and/or names. This is an important procedure allowing for future re-sighting of

individuals on a long-term basis (Parsons 2001).


Over time the information from this database will provide additional information such as

associations and calving intervals.

Mark-Recapture

Mark-recapture methods can be used to calculate population size from the proportion of

known individuals re-sighted over the study period. In order for mark-recapture methods

to yield accurate results a number of conditions must be met:

A marked animal will always be recognised if seen again. In order to satisfy this

assumption only stable, long-term distinguishing features should be used to

recognise individuals.

Samples of individuals must be representative of the population being estimated. If

‘marked’ individuals (recognisable individuals that have been photographed) do not

mix fully with the rest of the population this assumption is violated.

‘Marking’ (photographing) an individual does not affect the probability of that

individual being recaptured (photographed subsequently).

Within one sampling occasion, every individual in the population should have the

same probability of being ‘captured’ (photographed). To reduce the risk of this

assumption being violated as many individuals should be captured as possible.

The population must be closed i.e. no emigration or immigration.

Initially a sample of individuals is photographically ‘captured’ (n1), and on a subsequent

occasion, a second sample of individuals is ‘captured’ (n2) of which a number were

already identified in the first sample (m2). The proportion of individuals that are marked

in the second sample can be equated with the proportion in the overall population (N)

(Evans and Hammond 2004).

The mark-recapture formulae are as follows:

Equation 1

(m2) = n1

n2 N


The number of individuals captured and marked is known which allows the population

size to be estimated (Ň):

Equation 2

Ň = n1 n2

m2

Spatial Heterogeneity

The method of spatial heterogeneity utilising GPS co-ordinates allows for the mapping of

animals sighted during survey using ArcView GIS. Linking sightings data recorded on a

database (e.g. Access) with ArcView has the potential to yield grid-based plots of

distribution that can then be compared with remote sensing and other sources of

environmental information (Evans and Hammond 2004) and behavioural data to assist in

the identification of critical habitats and specific habitat functions. The information

obtained as a result of such analysis may assist conservation management initiatives

and the provide guidance for the designation and location of marine park boundaries.

2.4.1 Vessel-Based Forms and Methodology

Three forms were used on stingray to incorporate the above methodologies and collect

information on population size and demographics: the Event Log, Cetacean Sightings

form, and the Photo ID form. A fourth form is used when mega fauna is sighted, the

Mega Fauna Survey form. Similarly a single simplified form combing elements of the

event log, cetacean sighting form and mega fauna survey form is completed during

surveys undertaken on tourist boats. All expedition members receive appropriate training

to ensure competence in the completion of all data forms.

Event Log

Throughout the survey day an Event Log (see Appendix 1) is completed. On this data

sheet the search effort throughout the day is recorded along with number of surveys

completed and changes in environmental conditions, course and speed. If none of these

features change, as the research day goes, the form is filled every quarter of the hour.


Every half hour observers rotate roles and ‘view points’, every two hours each observer

receives a half hour eye break as Event log scribe. If dolphins are spotted all observers

maintain the same position until the survey is over.

The information taken by the Event log is:

1. Date

2. Vessel name

3. Time (24 hour clock)

4. Event (see Appendix 1)

5. GPS Co-ordinates

6. Species (if sighted)

7. Speed

8. Environmental conditions (see Appendix 1)

9. Additional comments

Cetacean Sightings Form

The Sightings form (see Appendix 2) is used to record sightings of dolphins and whales.

This form was put in place at the start of expedition 073 to gather simple unbiased

information about habitat distribution, group size and structure, and if the sighting

occurred due to exterior factors (e.g. presence of tourist vessels) or not. Once dolphins

or whales are sighted and the vessel is within 10 metres, the recorder documents the

following data:

1. Time (24 hour clock)

2. GPS Co-ordinates

3. Dolphin Survey number (each day surveys begin as DS01, DS02, etc.)

4. Species

5. Depth at the start of the sighting

6. Group size

7. Number of calfs

8. Number of neonates

9. Whether a Photo ID survey was conducted or not

10. Number of boats present (not counting research vessel)

11. Additional comments


Photo ID Form

During photo-ID the vessel manoeuvres into a better position to obtain the optimum

distance and angle for photographs to be taken (Parsons 2001). Once photo-ID has

commenced, the photographer informs the photo-ID scribe of the relevant frame

numbers, spacer shots, distinct or identifiable individuals, and the total number of shots

taken during each sighting. This information is recorded by the scribe on the photo-ID

form. Staff members perform all photographic documentation in the field (See Appendix

3).

Mega Fauna Survey Form

The Mega fauna survey form is used to record sightings of turtles, whale sharks, manta

rays, and dugongs. Species seen and the sighting location (GPS position) is

documented along with additional habitat and behavioural notes where conditions allow.

(See Appendix 4)

The data includes:

1. Time

2. GPS Co-ordinates

3. Depth

4. Sea State (Beaufort scale)

5. Tide

6. Species

7. Habitat

8. Number of individuals

9. Additional notes

Tourist Boat Form

The tourist boat form (see Appendix 5) was used to record both effort and sightings data

during this expedition’s pilot study. Both cetacean and mega fauna sightings are

recorded on the form, however given the differences in behaviour between species and

nature of the tourism industry, bottlenose dolphins are the predominant focus of the

search effort. The boat dhow form is filled in every 15 minutes and upon sighting and

leaving animals.

The data includes:


1. Time (24hr clock)

2. GPS Co-ordinates

3. Species

4. Number of individuals & demographics (adults, calves and neonates)

5. Dispersal

6. Tide

7. Speed

8. Cloud cover

9. Swell

10. Sea state (Beaufort scale)

11. Visability

12. Precipitation

13. Additional notes

2.4.2 Snorkel-Based Surveys

Snorkel-based transect surveys were initially piloted during the second half of expedition

073 in an attempt to gather information about turtles species and their habitat use in the

KMMPA and surrounding areas. Turtle sightings were successfully recorded during the

preliminary stages of the pilot study therefore it has been continued during expedition

074.

The surveys consist of snorkelling in buddy-pairs along a 400 metre transect. One

person functions as an observer looking for turtles 5 metres either side of the transect

line whilst the other person acts as a navigator for the observer using visual reference

points. Snorkel transects were undertaken on 4 transects laid in expedition 073, (2 off

Wasini Island, 1 off Lower Mpunguti Island and 1 off Upper Mpunguti Island), and an

additional transect (transect 5) laid at Lower Mpunguti at the start of expedition 074. All

transects are situated on the North side of the islands with the exception of transect 5

which is located on the south side of Lower Mpunguti. Species, number of individuals,

activity, habitat and general notes were recorded.


2.5 Results

The data here has been analysed displaying the non-training period of the expedition in

accordance with previous work and where possible showing analysis of all data collected

that has been supervised by expedition marine officers.

During Expedition 074 there was a total effort of 161h.15m on vessel-based surveys,

140h.34m were spent during non-training days, 20h.41m on training days surveying the

KMMPA and surrounding areas. Results for all surveys are summarised below. All

vessel based sightings and photo-ID surveys are shown in Table 2-2.

Sightings Non-training Training Photo ID

surveys BND 37 27 10 0 HBD 6 6 0 0 Unknown Turtle 24 23 1 0 Hawksbill Turtle 2 2 0 0 Total cetaceans 43 33 10 0

Table 2-2. Vessel-based sightings and photo-ID surveys

Cetacean sightings on tide were examined with T. aduncus displaying no preference for

tidal conditions being sighted only one more time on the flood tide than on the ebb tide.

S. chinensis were sighted 8 occasions during expedition 074 with an equal number of

sightings being recorded during flood and ebb tides (Figure 2-1.).

Figure 2-1. Sightings of species on tidal conditions during the non-training period of 074


During each cetacean survey, the number of individuals was recorded. T. aduncus were

most frequently observed in groups of 6-10 animals whilst S. chinensis were most

frequently observed in smaller groups consisting of 1-5 individuals. Only T. aduncus

were observed in groups comprising more than ten individuals Figure 2-2).

Figure 2-2. Number of surveys conducted by group size for the different cetacean species sighted during the non-training period of 074

For the different cetacean species the number of sightings was linked with vessel effort

hours (Figure 2-3). T. aduncus sightings were highest between 09:01-10:00 and 10:01-

11:00 with 72.7% of all sightings occurring between 09:01-11:00. S. chinensis were

sighted most frequently between 08:01-09:00.


Figure 2-3. Number of sightings by effort hour for the different cetacean species observed during the

non-training period of 074

The spatial distribution for the research area is shown in Figure 2-4. A large number of

the T. aduncus encounters were along the east side of Wasini Island, with S. chinensis

being found mainly inside the Wasini channel. Out of the 25 turtle sightings of various

species,11 were inside the Marine Protected Area.

Figure 2-4. Spatial distribution of non-training sightings for Expedition 074

Bottlenose Dolphins (Blue, n= 33), Humpback Dolphins (Red, n=8), and Turtles (Purple, n=25). The black box indicates the boundaries of the KMMPA.

The spatial distribution of bottlenose dolphins for expedition 074 is shown in figure 2-5.


Figure 2-5. Distribution of Bottlenose Dolphin sightings (n=33) recorded during the non-training period of expedition of 074

The black box indicates the boundaries of the KMMPA.

The spatial distribution of bottlenose dolphins for expedition 074 is shown in Figure 2-5.

All sightings of humpback dolphins were recorded outside of the KMMPA (Figure 2-6).

Figure 2-6. Distribution of Humpback Dolphin sightings (n=8) recorded during the non-training

period of expedition of 074


In addition to the cetacean and turtle sightings recorded whilst on marine surveys, a solitary whale shark was encountered east of Wasini Island during expedition 074 (figure 2-7).


Figure 2-7. Location of the casual Whale shark observation (Black, n=1) recorded during the non-

training period of expedition of 074


Further to the search effort undertaken onboard GVI’s research vessel, Stingray, an additional effort of 50hr. 45m was spent by expedition members on board tourist boats during the expedition 074 pilot study. A total of 18 bottlenose dolphin sightings were recorded tourist boats (Subira and Aliklass) (Figure 2-8). On average, the tourist boats spent 52 minutes interacting with the animals on each trip, however this does not take in to account their proximity to the animals during that time, or the number of separate encounters.


Figure 2-8. Distribution of Bottlenose dolphin (Blue, n=18) and Humpback dolphin (Red, n=1)

sightings from tourist boats during the non-training period of expedition 074


The turtle snorkelling transects are located on the north side of Wasini Island, north and south of Lower Mpunguti Island and north of Upper Mpunguti (labelled Mpungutiya Chini and Mpungutiya Juu respectiviely on the map) as shown in Figure 2-9.

Figure 2-9. Locations of the five turtle transects for the expedition 074

Transects 3, 4 and 5 are within the KMMPA.


Turtle snorkel transects were surveyed a total of 89 times at an average of 15 minutes

per transect, equating to approximately 22h.15m of observational hours. Turtle sightings

were recorded on transects 2, 4 and 5 with the greatest number of turtles being

observed on transect 4 during expedition 074 (Table 2-3). Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys

imbricata) and green turtle (Chelonia mydas) sightings were recorded (n=6 and n=2

respectively), however it was not possible to determine the species of some turtles

sighted (n=3) due to poor visibility, distance from the observer, direction of travel in

relation to the animal and/or activity undertaken by the individual.

Transect 1 Transect 2 Transect 3 Transect 4 Transect 5

surveyed Sighted surveyed Sighted surveyed Sighted surveyed Sighted surveyed Sighted

16 0 16 1 17 0 18 7 18 3

Table 2-3. Number of times transects were surveyed with the total number of turtles sighted on each

transect

2.6 Discussion

This expedition continued to collect baseline ecology information on cetaceans and

turtles within the KMMPA and surrounding waters.

Humpback dolphins were sighted on 8 occasions during expedition 074 (no humpback

dolphins were observed during the training period), with so few sightings being recorded,

there is insufficient data available to draw reliable conclusions. The majority of sightings

occurred within the Wasini Channel (figure 2-6) which coincides with previously

observed sightings from past expeditions. The Wasini Channel is 1.6 kilometres at its

widest point by 8 km’s long and the maximum depth 14 fathoms (25.60m) (Admiralty

Charts and Publications #866). On average S. chinensis were sighted at a depth of 10.1

metres and very close to the shoreline or intertidal shelf, which concurs with Karczmarski

et al (2000) who had 91.3% of sightings in water less than 15 m deep, and 80% of

sightings less than 400 metres from the shore. The group size for this expedition ranged

between 1-9 individuals with a mean number of 4.

Bottlenose dolphins were sighted most frequently along the eastern edge of Wasini

Island (figure 2-5), however the data is not sufficiently strong as this area is closest to


the GVI base, where all surveys commence from. A method of weighting the data, to

compare sightings with search effort in different locations within the area of interest, is

required to facilitate accurate comparisons throughout the area of interest and to

establish habitat preferences, thus enabling KWS to utilise this data to review KMMPA

boundaries if considered necessary.

During expedition 074, 72.7% of T. aduncus sightings occurred between the hours of

09:01 and 11:00. It is possible that this data may be influenced by the fact that the GVI

research vessel generally concentrates the first hour of search effort within the channel

(a habitat that appears to be favoured by humpback dolphins) typically reaching the

KMMPA (a habitat that appears to be preferred by bottlenose dolphins) around this time.

Furthermore, tourist boats operating in the area leave Shimoni pier at around 09:00 and

head out towards the KMMPA in search of dolphins. This could account for higher

sightings given that the presence of tourist boats was recorded as the sighting cue for

66.67% of all bottlenose dolphin sightings recorded by GVI expedition members. The

diel movements for T. aduncus in the area of interest are largely unknown. Currently, all

cetacean surveys are terminated at around 12:00pm in order for expedition members to

participate in other research activities however in past expeditions, cetacean surveys

continued into the afternoon but resulted in few sightings. Further studies into the diel

movements of bottlenose dolphins in the area of interest are needed and information

from other parts of the region should be obtained to aid future comparisons.

Bottlenose dolphins were most frequently observed in groups of 6-10 animals (figure 2-

2) however group sizes ranged from 1 to 32 individuals with an the average group size

of 12 coinciding with studies of bottlenose dolphins in Moreton Bay, Australia where the

average group size was reported to be 10 (Corkeron, 1990). Similarly, this figure agrees

with several coastal studies of bottlenose dolphins around the world which reveal

relatively small groups that vary with activity (Shane 1990, Rogan et al 2000, Meyler

2006, Ingram 2000). Further study to examine if group size changes with activity would

be an important and interesting part of any baseline data study, however attempts to

introduce behavioural studies in this area have so far been unsuccessful due to the

particular limitations of our research.


In previous expeditions, photo-identification techniques have been used to plot a

discovery curve to try to determine population size and habitat use of different dolphin

species in the KMMPA and surrounding area. Unfortunately, the Canon EOS 350D

digital camera (75-300 ml lens) and Nikon D200 digital camera (50-500 ml lens)

cameras utilised during previous expeditions developed technical faults and an

alternative camera sourced could not be delivered in time, therefore no photo-

identification surveys could be undertaken during 074.

Turtles were sighted from the research vessel during cetacean survey on 25 occasions.

Whilst most of these observations were recorded as unknown turtle species, due to the

distance of the animal from the vessel, and rapid speed surface/descent of the animals,

on 2 occasions the observers were able to successfully indentify the individuals as

Hawksbill turtles. The sightings were evenly distributed over the area of interest with

44% of the sightings occurring within the KMMPA boundaries.

To enhance our turtle monitoring programme within our area of interest, in water snorkel

transect surveys were trialled over expeditions 073 and 074 to collect more data on

species occurrence both inside and outside of the KMMPA. The data collected during

the last 5 weeks of expedition 073 functioned as a pilot study to ensure there would be

sightings whilst in the water and that the species could be successfully identified. The

initial pilot study was successful in collecting data therefore the study was continued

over expedition 074 to allow further testing of the selected methodology upon which

further improvements may be implemented. To date 15 Hawksbill turtles (E. imbricata) (9

sightings during 073 and 6 sightings during 074) and 4 Green turtles (C. mydas) (2

sightings recorded in both expedition 073 and 074) sightings have been recorded, which

differs from Wamukokya and Haller (1995) who states that C. mydas is the predominant

species within Kenyan waters followed by the E. imbricata. This difference could simply

be due to the position of the snorkel transects as transect 4 (accounting for 77.3% of all

sightings recorded to date, 90.1% and 63.6% for expeditions 073 and 074 respectively)

is situated on a diverse coral reef which is known to be the preferred habitat of E.

imbricata (Richmond 2002). Currently we have had sightings on all transects except

transect 3 (north of Lower Mpunguti).


During expedition 074 a pilot study was undertaken onboard two tourist boats (Subira

and Aliklass) operated by Dolphin Dhow. Bottlenose dolphins were sighted most

frequently along the eastern edge of Wasini Island and around the Kisitie and Mpunguti

Islands with 66.66% of bottlenose dolphin sightings occurring within the marine park

(figure 2-8), however this data is not sufficiently strong as the tourist vessel leaves

Shimoni pier around 09:00 am daily and travels east towards the KMMPA in search of

dolphins resulting in a greater concentration of search effort in this area. A method of

weighting the data, to compare sightings with search effort in different locations within

the area of interest, is required to facilitate accurate comparisons throughout the area of

interest.

In addition to the bottlenose dolphin sightings, a single humpback sighting was also

recorded by GVI expedition members onboard the tourist boat. The sighting occurred in

the Wasini Channel coinciding with the humpback dolphin sightings recorded from the

GVI cetacean research vessel, Stingray, during the non-training period of 074 (figure 2-

6), and sightings from past expeditions. Whilst the total number of humpback dolphin

sightings recorded to date has been considerably lower than that of bottlenose dolphins,

it is possible that the difference between the number of humpback and bottlenose

sightings recorded whilst onboard the tourist vessel may in part be due to the nature of

the dolphin-watching industry. Typically bottlenose dolphins are the predominant focus

of search effort in the area due to their tendency to bow ride and interact with vessels in

comparison to the more boat-shy humpback dolphin.

Finally, in addition to the survey sightings discussed above, a solitary Whale shark

(Rhiniodon typus) sighting was recorded during expedition 074 (figure 2-7). This casual

observation was only the third sighting of Rhiniodon typus to date providing further

evidence of the presence of whale sharks in the area however there is no effort data in

support of this sighting and insufficient whale shark data from previous expeditions to

perform analysis on.

2.7 Development

During expedition 074, a pilot study was trailed onboard a tourist vessel operated by

Dolphin Dhow. The additional platform has provided a means for maximising sightings


data recorded within the KMMPA and offered the opportunity for expedition members to

interact with visiting tourists to enhance current environmental awareness campaigns.

The pilot study has shown signs of promise in terms of expedition members using tourist

dhows as additional observation platform however there is insufficient data to date to

perform in depth analysis of the data to draw conclusions that could be made to aid

management decisions due to limited duration of the project. Methods of maximising

data collected onboard regarding the number of dhows, dhow behaviour and time spent

with dolphins should be explored. Furthermore, additional tourist operators should be

approached in future expeditions to encourage the facilitation of more standardised

practices with regards to the provision of marine education, potentially relieving some of

the pressure currently placed upon members of crew to allow the tourists to get to close

to, or swim with, dolphins.

Land-based surveys would benefit the area to assess:

Dolphin tidal and daily movement

Dolphin behaviour from an unbiased platform

Dolphin and boat interaction

Boat traffic within the area

Mega-fauna presence

Non-intrusive land-based studies have been used in several studies to investigate

preliminary population estimates (Berrow 1996, Ingram 2000) and/or changes in

behaviour (including dive times) with and without presence of boats (Acevedo 1991,

Shane 1990). Before this method can be re-introduced into the marine programme, a

new location needs to be found or alternatively improvements to the observation

platform/land watch site previously used need to be implemented to establish a position

with a wider viewing angle.

Vessel-based cetacean behavioural surveys would help collate data on spatial

heterogeneity, dolphin-vessel interactions and could provide us with details of habitat

preference for specific behaviours. Previous attempts to compile behavioural data in the

field proved unsuccessful therefore alternative methodologies need to be explored.


Finally further improvements to the in water snorkel methodology need to be

implemented to aid navigation in strong currents. Additionally, methods of maximising

the data collected should be explored in order to collect further information on

individuals’ size, habitat preference and behaviours.


3. Terrestrial Research Programme

3.1 Introduction

3.1.1 Background

The Eastern Arc forests of Kenya and Tanzania are a remnant of a once continuous

mosaic of unique forest that stretched from the Kenya-Somalia border, to the border of

Tanzania and Mozambique (Clarke, 2000). Internationally recognised, this forest system

is one of the 25 global biodiversity hotspots and listed as one of 11 ‘priority’ regions for

international conservation investment (Myers et al 2000). These unique and diminishing

forest habitats support high levels of endemism and important populations of species

that have wide-ranging, but fragmented distributions, therefore remaining vulnerable.

Tanzania’s Eastern Arc Mountains are renowned for their communities of endemic

amphibians, reptiles and mammals. The coastal forests of Kenya form the northern

fringe of the Eastern Arc forests, however much less is known about the floral and faunal

diversity of these areas.

The coastal forests of Shimoni (located on the southern tip of coastal Kenya) form a thin

strip of ‘coral rag forest’, officially labelled as the ‘Northern Zanzibar-Inhambane Floristic

region’. This forest zone is found along the coastal areas of Kenya, Tanzania and

Somalia, and is formed on ancient coral reef exposed by falling sea levels, leaving

limestone rock and shallow soils. In conjunction with relatively high salinity levels and

coastal climatic influences, the plant community and the structure of the forest are

adapted to the substrate and favour shallow root systems, which reduce stability. This

makes these forest habitats highly susceptible to erosion processes and hence at risk

from the influences of deforestation in the wider Shimoni area. The specialised flora that

is found in these habitats supports and sustains rare and endemic species which are of

particular interest to biological conservation, and sustainable livelihoods through

responsible tourism. Coastal forests continue to be under threat due to human

population growth, agricultural expansion and tourist development, therefore increasing

the need for a stringent management plan to be enforced, to conserve the remaining

forest areas within this region (Anderson et al, 2007).


3.1.2 Study Area

Primary research is conducted in Shimoni forest (east) on the Shimoni peninsula,

positioned between Shimoni village to the west (04º64’900”S, 39º38’600”E) and the

coast of the Indian Ocean to the south and east (04º64’300”S, 39º40’300”E), (Figure 3-

1). The forest is locally known as ‘Mbuyu Tundu’, and will hereafter be referred to as

‘Shimoni forest (east)’.

Shimoni forest (east) represents an important fragment of Kenya’s unique and

indigenous coastal forest. Currently used for resource extraction and the clearing of land

for farming, the area is at threat from the continuing development of Shimoni village,

particularly on coastal land plots. More recently, the increase in charcoal burning within

Shimoni forest has become apparent, with the clearing of large areas of previous

untouched forest for charcoal production.

This area of forest was selected for biological research, primarily because it represents a

valuable area for biodiversity and in particular supports an important population of the

Angolan Black and White Colobus (Colobus angolensis palliatus), a flagship species for

this region. Anderson et al, (2007) has recently highlighted Shimoni forest to be one of

the key habitats for colobus, being the one of the second largest populations in Kenya.

Discussions with community-based organisations in Shimoni village highlighted the

importance of the forest to the wider community. In particular the ‘Shimoni Youth

Conservation Project’ were keen to seek protection and promote sustainable

management. As a result, GVI have developed the terrestrial research programme to

support local stakeholders. On a more practical level, the forest is readily accessible and

GVI are logistically able to support long-term and wide ranging biodiversity surveys and

monitoring of the area.

This expedition, the terrestrial programme has been involved in a national colobus

census, in collaboration with The Colobus Trust and Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), as a

revision of the 4 month census undertaken by Anderson in 2001. This is to primarily

asses the status and distribution of the Angolan Black and White Colobus within Kwale

district, the last remaining refuge for the species in Kenya. GVI’s participation this

expedition has included Dzombo and Gonja forest reserves (including Majoreni forest).


Dzombo forest (4º26’S, 39º12’E) is located approximately 1.5km from the village of

Dzombo, and covers 5km2 (504.4ha). The forest is protected under the Forest Reserve

(1941) and was gazetted as a kaya (sacred burial ground) in 1992. Threats to the forest

include seasonal burning of grassland on the South-westerly edges and agricultural

encroachment (Anderson, 2001). In addition, there was significant levels of timber

logging and pole cutting, and poles seen cut for firewood and charcoal production. Many

access paths are situated throughout the forest, and Anderson (2001) reported snares

and baboon traps located on the lower slopes of the forest in the previous census.

Seventeen C. a palliatus were observed in 2001, with an estimated number of 21

present within the area.

Gonja and Majoreni (4º34’E, 39º12’S) forested areas are 4.22km2 (422ha) and 35.2ha

respectively and are located on the Kenya/Tanzania border, close to Lunga Lunga. Both

forests are protected under the Gonja Forest Reserve Protection (1961) and are

separated by the Kenya/Tanzania tarmac road. Heavy commercial logging is seen

throughout the forest, supplying the 100+ workforce/wood-carving industries on the

Tanzanian border post. Majoreni forest is under threat of agricultural encroachment on

the Northern boundary. Previous census data found 24 C. a palliatus in Gonja, with no

individuals observed in Majoreni.

This repeat census aims to obtain up-to-date density and distribution of the species, and

push forward conservation initiatives, ensuring the species’ long term survival in Kenya.


Figure 3-1. Survey transects on the Shimoni peninsular.

3.2 Aims

The aims of the terrestrial research programme are to monitor primate community

dynamics, densities, distribution, habitat use and time budgets, with particular interest in

C. a. palliatus. These surveys are complimented and quantified by the monitoring of

habitat variation through analysis of floral composition, seasonal change and human

disturbance. Vegetation surveys are utilised to assess floristic diversity, canopy height,

canopy cover and seasonality of fruits and flowers. Monitoring of floral regeneration in

relation to disturbance levels are used to assess forest recovery rates, and resource

consumption including extraction of poles and timber in addition to other forms of

anthropogenic activity. Butterfly surveys are additionally used to examine forest diversity

and the effects of disturbance on the butterfly community. Bird diversity and habitat use


is also carried out to assess resource competition between certain avian and primate

species, and gain a species list for the area. Biodiversity is additionally monitored by the

recording of casual observations, used to assess and gauge species richness and the

presence of other rare and endangered plants and animals. In addition, research has

been undertaken in forest located within KWS Shimoni headquarters.

The Colobus census will provide an up to date version of the status and distribution of C.

a palliatus, and assist in developing conservation initiatives to ensure the survival of the

species and the unique forest habitats in which they are found.

The eventual aim of this research is to gain community management through support

with the local Shimoni community. A community-based organisation has recently been

established, ‘Friends of Shimoni Forest’, and its main objectives are conservation of

biodiversity; indigenous afforestation; and continued forest research. If effective

community management status were obtained, research can be used to suggest

management protocols whereby resource use is acceptable at specified levels, and re-

plantation initiatives are utilised to ensure the long-term sustainability of forest resources

for both the human and wildlife communities. Additional forms of income may also be

derived from the forest through responsible tourism; the Angolan Black and White

Colobus represents a charismatic and beautiful primate species. Guided tours through

the forest would provide a source of sustainable revenue to supplement the successful

community fund initiatives of the Shimoni Slave Cave Committee, and create awareness

into the wider population.

Anderson (2007) has highlighted the importance of the Shimoni coastal forest as key

habitat for the future of the Angolan Black and White Colobus conservation initiatives,

holding potentially the second largest population of this species in Kenya. This makes

the forest not only of local importance, but of national and international importance in

stemming the declining population numbers of this primate in Kenya.

Due to time constraints and GVI’s commitment to the Colobus census, comprehensive

vegetation surveys were unable to be completed this expedition.


3.3 Methods

3.3.1 Line Transect Sampling

The overall methodology for the terrestrial research programme is structured around a

transect grid system utilising east-west straight line transects (Figure 3-1). Parallel

transects are spaced at 200 metre intervals, facilitating a 100 metre survey distance

either side of each transect. This follows the Tropical Ecology, Assessment and

Monitoring (TEAM) Initiative, Primate Monitoring Protocol (Lacher 2005).

Transects are divided into 50m sections to enable the survey data to be categorised

accurately, and facilitate distribution mapping. A north-south ‘spine’ is used to ensure the

200m separation between parallel transects and to aid access.

The Shimoni forest (east) study area contains six transects; transect 1, the furthest

south, runs approximately 100 metres from the coastal edge. The total survey area for

Shimoni Forest (east) is 2.2km2 (220ha). The KWS forest area contains just one 400m

transect which runs north to south, comprising 8ha. Table 3-1 summarises the total

number of sections and lengths of each transect.

Forest Transect Sections Length (m)

Shimoni forest (east) 1 17 850 Shimoni forest (east) 2 34 1700 Shimoni forest (east) 3 48 2400 Shimoni forest (east) 4 43 2150 Shimoni forest (east) 5 39 1950 Shimoni forest (east) 6 38 1900 Total 219 10950 KWS forest 7 8 400

Table 3-1. Summary of transects in the Shimoni area.

3.3.2 Primate Community Survey

Three species of anthropoid coexist in the survey area. The Angolan Black and White

Colobus monkey (Colobus angolensis palliatus), the Syke’s monkey (Cercopithecus

mitis albogularis), and the Yellow baboon (Papio cynocephalus). The primate community


surveys are based on distance sampling methods, utilising two nominated observers

whilst additional members of the team ensure they do not draw attention to primates un-

detected by the observers. This maintains consistency of effort, to enable the

quantifiable analysis of data used in estimating primate densities (Buckland et al 2001).

Primate surveys are conducted along one transect at a time (and only once during each

expedition) during the mornings when primates are more likely to be active and easily

detected. When groups of primates are spotted, the sighting distance (distance from the

observer to the first detected individual) was estimated, and all observers were tested at

a distance estimation accuracy of 90%. Perpendicular distance is calibrated from the first

animal seen to the centre of the group by Whitesides et al., (1988) standard correction

method using the below equation:

P’ = P ( 1+ ŕi )

S

Where: P’ = Perpendicular distance from the transect line to the centre of the

group.

P = Perpendicular distance from the transect line to the first detected ind.

ŕi = Half the mean group spread.

S = Sighting distance (distance from observer to first detected ind.

Population size and density were calculated using the program DISTANCE 5.0 (Thomas

et al 2006). Distance sampling requires a number of assumptions to be met, including

the random distribution of the surveyed objects. In order to meet this assumption for

social species such as primates, groups rather than individuals are recorded; therefore

sightings of solitary individuals were not included in distance sampling analysis (however

were included in the complete group counts). It is also necessary to be confident that

any group positioned 0 metres from the transect line has a 100% probability of detection

(Buckland et al 2001). Since the species surveyed in this study are not particularly

cryptic, and often freeze rather than flee when approached, it is unlikely that such groups

would go undetected; hence this assumption can be upheld with confidence.


For each sighting, species, group size and demography were determined, spending up

to 10 minutes with the group. Sex and age class is most easily recognized in C. a.

palliatus; 0-3 months (white infant), 3-6 months (grey juvenile), >6 months (black and

white adult). Small individuals with adult colouration in close association with an adult

were classed as sub-adults. Sub adults were not sexed as this could not be done with

confidence; gender may be deliberately obscured, to reduce intolerance of adult males

towards young males (Estes, 1997). Age classes were selected on the basis of pelt

colouration enabling confidence in accurate categorisation rather than attempting to

estimate using relative body size. Sex was only determined in adults, with males

distinguishable by a clear white stripe from buttocks to genitalia which is absent in

females. Ages classes and sexes were not assumed in C. m. albogularis and P.

cynocephalus except where young were seen attached to an adult, as this could not be

confidently quantified.

Sighting quality was recorded and ranked as follows; 0 - primates heard but not seen, 1 -

group count incomplete, 2 - group count complete but demographics incomplete, 3 -

count and demographics complete. A 0 sighting quality was not used in the analysis, but

provided information on any particular cryptic species present. Group spread of primates

was recorded where possible, to estimate a mean group spread for the species

sampled. In addition, tree species in which the primates were sighted was recorded,

providing information on species preference, thus gaining information on habitat

preference and distribution in relation to floral composition of the forest.

3.3.3 Primate Behavioural Surveys

Behavioural surveys of C. a. palliatus are used primarily to investigate time budgets.

However, habitat use, group structure, and group interactions, are also derived from the

data collected. Through habituation, and the identification and size of group territories,

these surveys will also support the development of tourism initiatives to gain sustainable

income from the forest wildlife.

Continuous, focal individual sampling is adopted in order to establish C. a. palliatus time

budgets. Time budgets can be used to establish conditions and constraints under which

animals are living. The most suitable conditions promote greater carrying capacities and


hence higher densities (Fimbel et al 2001), as well as less vulnerability to changes in

habitat condition. Time budgets can also be used in examining predator pressures by

analysing the relative time spent being vigilant. This data will then be used to compare

between individuals, groups, forest types, and at different levels of disturbance.

Focal individuals are surveyed in ten-minute blocks, measuring behaviours which are

broken into states and events. States are measured in real-time durations, as opposed

to events which are recorded only as frequencies logged within each ten-minute time

block. States represent behaviours of longer durations; for example feeding, sleeping,

resting etc. Events represent shorter, instantaneous behaviours; for example scratching,

yawning, urinating. Some tactile signals and postures are included in this survey for use

in the analysis of group interactions. These include stiff-legs display, which has been

identified as an agonistic display between territorial males (Estes 1991). At the end of

each time block, a scan sample is conducted to identify the overall group state (>50% of

the group); this is used in the analysis and discussion of the circumstances under which

different individual behaviours occur and if certain behaviours occur simultaneously.

States and events are categorised under strict parameters, and outlined in the ethogram

which is used to ensure consistency between observers and comparability between

surveys.

Surveys are conducted at all times of the daylight hours in order to measure a

representative portion of time budgets throughout the day. Data recording is only

initiated after a period of at least 10 minutes to reduce bias caused by the arrival of the

observers. If the focal individual moves out of view and observers are unable to

confidently identify the same individual upon reappearing, the survey is ended. There is

no set survey time limit.

3.3.4 Bird Point Counts

Bird species diversity, abundance and density are estimated through the use of bird

point counts. East Africa represents one of 218 worldwide Endemic Bird Areas,

(Stattersfield et al 1998) and birds are important components of forest ecosystems as

well as indicators of habitat disturbance. Many bird species are dependent on readily


available stocks of fruits, flowers and seeds, and the presence or absence of seasonal

birds indicates the seasonality of these forest commodities. Birds such as large raptors

also represent the only known predators of primate species in the area, and most likely

only predators of young.

Early morning point count surveys are conducted along the transect lines at 100 metre

intervals. The point count is delineated by transect sections. Odd or even transect

numbers are sampled, leaving a section between recordings, therefore avoiding double

counts. Number and species of birds seen are recorded for ten minutes before moving

onto the next point count. A five minute settle-down period of silence precedes each

recording period. Bird song heard within the ten minute period is recorded using a

dictaphone, and analysed from a bird song CD after surveys, aiding a species list from

the visual constraints of the forest habitat.

3.3.5 Canopy Cover Survey

Canopy cover is recorded in order to enable analysis of seasonal change and to

describe the forest profile. This is in turn used to compliment primate and other faunal

distribution surveys. Estimations of the canopy cover are recorded every 10 metres of

each 50 metre section, enabling five recordings to be averaged for the section. Cover is

recorded by looking straight up through inverted binoculars, estimating the percentage of

the area blocked by tree canopy foliage and branches, to the nearest 5%.

3.3.6 Fruit and Flower Survey

Fruits and flowers are surveyed in an effort to measure tree species seasonality, and the

distribution of fruits and flowers throughout the survey area. Many forest animals rely on

fruits and flowers as vital food sources; and most significantly for the aims of this project,

they are vital dietary components of the primates found in the Shimoni forests.

Fruits and flowers are identified along the transect lines, recording trees within 10m of

the transect line. Trees in fruit or flower are identified by the aid of a field identification

sheet, composed in collaboration with a local botanist, and the Diameter at Breast

Height (DBH) recorded in order to assess age structure. Only woody vegetation with a


DBH over 5cm is recorded. Samples, photo’s, and detailed descriptions of any unknown

tree species are taken for later identification.

3.3.7 Butterfly Community Survey

Butterflies (Order: Lepidoptera) offer an excellent indicator taxon of plant species

diversity, habitat diversity and disturbance levels. Butterfly canopy traps are utilised, and

baited with mashed banana that has been allowed to ferment for at least 3 days. Traps

are baited and left for approximately 24 hours before checking, and three canopy traps

are used simultaneously on each trapping day. Traps are placed at three heights;

ground (0-1m), understory (1-5m), and mid-canopy (5-10m). Photographs of each

individual are taken for identification using Larsen (1996).

3.3.8 Casual Observations

During all observer time in the forest, records are also made of other fauna observed

and identified in the field, noting species, location, habitat, group size and other

applicable notes. Indirect observations of animals such as tracks, dung or feathers are

also recorded as indicators of presence. Where possible unknown species are

photographed with detailed descriptions recorded, for later identification.

3.3.9 Colobus Census Line Transect Surveys

Colobus census surveys were conducted in two additional forests patches. These were

Dzombo and Gonja (including Majoreni) forest reserves. Methodologies for Gonja and

Majoreni forest reserves remained the same as primate community surveys, however,

transects at 100m spacing were utilised, and surveys were simultaneous, starting at the

same time and maintaining similar speed. Transects were walked at a slow pace,

stopping every 100m to watch and listen for primates (White and Edwards, 2000).

Census surveys were undertaken between the hours of 6:30 and 14:00h, when primates

are most active, omitting rainy days, when spotting becomes more difficult. All survey

teams maintained synchronisation by the counting of paces, and kept in constant

communication using mobile phones. Each transect started from the tarmac road,


providing accuracy in the 100m spacing, and followed a south-westerly bearing until

reaching the end of the forest (emerging at settlements or agricultural land). All transects

were marked using a Garmin Etrex Global Positioning System (GPS), throughout the

survey, allowing mapping of transects, and to record transect lengths. All groups were

notified of a sighting, thus avoiding speed changes on transects. When primate groups

were encountered the time, sighting distance and angle to the first individual seen were

recorded, and their position marked with the GPS. No more than 10 minutes were spent

with each group encountered, gathering data on species, group count, spread and

composition. Observer teams re-grouped at the end of each transect to share data and

eliminate ‘double counts’, by comparing similarities in team observations based on

sighting times, group composition and direction of travel. Sighting quality was recorded

for each group encountered. Data was discarded from sighting qualities of 0. Average

primate group size was taken from sighting qualities of 2 and 3. The total population

estimate for each forest was calculated by the sum of individuals from all groups, plus

any solitary individuals encountered. A total of 26 transects were surveyed over 9 days,

between the 5th and 15th of November 2007, totalling 38.36km in length in the Gonja and

Majoreni forest reserves.

Within the Dzombo forest, 100m parallel transect method could not be adopted due to

difficulty regarding the elevation and terrain of the forest. It was not possible to walk

completely across the forest due to large craters and steep, rocky slopes. Paths were

located all the way around the forest and the majority led to the top. A preliminary survey

was conducted on this survey methodology prior to the census starting. The angle of the

path, and distance between paths was recorded, and the entire path walked was marked

with a Garmin Etrex global positioning system (GPS). Paths were surveyed in the same

way as in the 100m transect methodology, with the census only being conducted on the

way up a path. As in Gonja, all teams counted paces and kept in constant

communication via mobile phones. From mapping the GPS points on the programme

TRACKMAKER, the total forest area was confidently covered. A total of 40 paths were

surveyed over a period of 10 days, between the 3rd and the 13th of December, totalling

36km in length.


3.4 Results


Primate community and distance sampling was completed once across all transect

sections within the Shimoni forest (east). Using the population estimation program

‘Distance 5.0’ (Thomas et al 2006), the total C. a. palliatus population for the Shimoni

forest (east) survey area (2.2 km2) is estimated at 160 individuals ± 75.6 S.E. (CI 95%:

58 – 443), at densities of 73 ind/km2 ± 34 S.E. (CI 95%: 26 -201). These estimates are

derived using the distance sampling data from October – December 2007. The input

data does not include sightings of solitary individuals. Only one solitary male of C. a

palliatus were detected during the community survey. In addition, 1 troop of P.

cynocephalus containing 3 individuals was observed during the primate community

survey. Table 3-2 summarizes the primate groups encountered this expedition.

C. a. palliatus C. m. albogularis P.cynocephalus

Area surveyed (km²) 2.2 2.2 2.2 Number of groups 15 4 1

Number of individuals 68 5 3

Average group size 4.8 1.25 3

Table 3-2. Summary of total counts observed during primate community surveys

This includes sightings of solitary individuals (Average group size was calculated omitting single sightings).

Perpendicular distances for primate groups were calculated from the data, as these are

necessary for distance sampling analysis in order to produce density and population

estimates. Figure 3-2 shows the distance categories at which C. a. palliatus were

detected on the community survey.


Figure 3-2 Frequency of perpendicular distances at which C. a. palliatus groups were detected

during primate community surveys (n=12)

Primate community surveys have been conducted over a yearly period, in both wet and

dry seasons in Shimoni forest (east) during 2007. Using the population estimation

program ‘Distance 5.0’ (Thomas et al 2006), the total C. a. palliatus population for the

Shimoni forest (east) survey area (2.2 km2) over the course of 2007 is estimated at 144

individuals ± 37.9 S.E. (CI 95%: 79 – 265), at densities of 65.7 ind/km2 ± 17.3 S.E. (CI

95%: 35.9 -120.2).

3.4.2 Primate Behavioural Survey

A total of 36.4 hours of behavioural surveys were conducted on 7 different groups of C.

a. palliatus. Figure 3-3 summarizes the total time budgets for all individuals. The exact

number of individuals studied is unknown due to the problems associated with the

identification of specific individuals. Both adult males and females were studied, and

females with young. Numerous notable behaviours were recorded, including social

grooming (both active and passive), contact and vocalising. Copulation was not

observed this expedition, however, a male was observed aroused on one occasion.

Aggressive encounters were not observed during survey, either between or within

groups. Staring behaviour is recorded when the subject under survey is intently staring

at the observer. This behaviour is caused by human presence and is used to prevent


inaccurate recording of vigilance (alert) behaviour. Staring behaviour also provides a

measure of the effect of human presence on the subjects.

Figure 3-3. Time budgets of C. a palliatus between October – December 2007 in Shimoni Forest

(east)

C. a palliatus exhibited resting behaviour for the largest percentage of the time (68.6%).

Feeding behaviour was seen 11.7% of the time, whilst grooming behaviour, either giving

or receiving was seen significantly less. Staring behaviour was not a major constituent of

the surveys (5.5%). Table 3-3 Summarizes the frequency of behaviour events exhibited

within the behaviour surveys this expedition.


Behaviour Frequency

Urination 3 Defecation 2 Yawn 2 Teeth Display 0 Vocalising 1 Scratching 84 Contact 5 Exchange 0 Arousal 1 Copulation 0 Masturbation 0 Throwing 0 Shaking 0

Table 3-3. Frequencies of behaviour events

No agonistic encounters were witnessed this expedition, and no copulation or

masturbation or stiff leg display (territorial advertising) performed by males. However,

again, as has been found in other expeditions, a high level of scratching behaviour was

witnessed during behaviour surveys (84). No behaviours outside of the ethogram were

witnessed.


Bird point counts were conducted between the hours of 06:30 and 09:00 on transects 2,

3 and 4 only. The time required for access meant that most surveys were restricted to

sections within close proximity to the north/south ‘spine’. A total time of 6.5hrs of survey

time was undertaken, covering 10 transect sections.. 17 bird species were identified

through sight and sound. Silvery-cheeked hornbills (Bycanistes brevis), crowned

hornbills (Tockus alboterminatus suahelicus), fork-tailed drongos (Dicrurus Adsimilis),

green wood hoopoes (Phoeniculus purpureous) swift spp (Apus spp) spectacled

weavers (Ploceus ocularis), black bellied starlings (Lamprotomis corruscus mandamus),

and collared sunbirds (Hedydipna collaris), were among the most abundant species. In

addition, an African fish eagle nest with chicks was observed on the Southern coastline

of the forest, seen from transect 1.


Species not previously recorded included African goshawk (Accipiter tachiro), black

headed apalis (Apalis melanocephala) and tropical boubou (Laniarious aethiopicus).

3.4.4 Fruit and Flower Survey

All transect sections were surveyed for fruits and flowers, over a total duration of 44hrs.

157 trees were recorded in fruit or flower throughout the total survey area. 11 species

were identified. The majority of tree species were found in fruits, with only very few seen

in flower. Most numerous species in fruit were represented by, Millettia usaramensis

(66), and various Ficus spp. The majority of Trichilia emetica were seen in flower (22)

(Table 3-4).


Tree Species Fruit Flower Total

Adansonia digitata 16 0 16

Antiaris toxicaria 2 0 2

Carpodiptera africana 0 1 1

Delonix regia 1 0 1

Fernandoa magnifica 0 4 4

Ficus sansibarica 2 4 6

Ficus spp 6 0 6

Ficus sur 15 0 15

Millettia usaramensis 66 0 66

Tamarindus indica 5 0 5

Trichilia emetica 12 22 35

Unidentified palm 1 0 1

Unknown 4 0 4

Total 130 27 157

Table 3-4. Total numbers of trees in fruit and flower within the Shimoni Forest (east) between October- December 2007

3.4.5 Canopy Surveys

Canopy cover was recorded every ten metres across all transect sections. The average

canopy cover for one section varied from 0% to 100%, in denominations of 5. The total

average canopy cover for Shimoni forest (east) was 70%, and 57% in the KWS forest

(Figure 3-4). This is lower than recorded between June to September, but slightly higher

than in the beginning of the year.


Figure 3-4. Mean canopy cover for transect sections

Transects 1 to 6 represent Shimoni forest (east). Transect 7 represents KWS forest. Largest circle size =

100% cover.


A total of 10 trapping days (where one trapping day is counted as one trap baited for a

24 hour period) were completed this expedition. Only transects 1, 2, and 3 were

surveyed during due to time constraints. Table 3-5 summarizes the species found and

in what abundances. Charaxes brutus still conformed to the existing trend, being the

most abundant species caught within the traps. Bicyclus safitza safitza was the next

most abundant (high numbers were also seen in previous expeditions). Charaxinae are


recorded to be in highest abundance within the Shimoni Forest (east) using the existing

method.

Subfamily Species Number caught

Charaxinae Charaxes brutus 15 Charaxinae Charaxes Cithaeron 1 Charaxinae Charaxes jahulsa kenyensis 1 Satyrinae Bicyclus safitza safitza 7 Total caught 24 Number of species 4

Table 3-5. Butterfly species caught and number of individuals

3.4.7 Casual observations

A total of 106.5 hours was spent on casual observations of fauna during this expedition

in Shimoni forest (east). 12 species of birds, 10 species of mammals, and 4 reptile

species were identified.

Species previously not identified include the little sparrowhawk (Accipiter minullus), a

hairy bat (Myotis spp), and a bibrons burrowing asp (Lorenzo vinaguerra), found on the

outskirts of the forest.

3.4.8 Primate Census Gonja and Majoreni Forest Reserves

The census in Gonja provided 18 sightings of primates within the total 26 transects

surveyed. C. a palliatus was sighted on 7 occasions. A total of 16 individuals were seen,

13 within the Gonja forest, and a group of three within the much smaller Majoreni forest.

Four solitary males were observed during the census. No sub adult, juvenile or infant C.

a palliatus were identified during the survey, with five individuals identified as unknown

sex. One solitary individual was identified as female. In addition, 6 troops of P.

cynocephalus and 6 troops of C. m albogularis were sighted within Gonja forest.

Population estimation using the programme DISTANCE 5.0 was not used as the data

sighting observation number was too small to yield viable results (Buckland, 2001).


Only sightings of C. a palliatus were quantified during the census. Table 3-6 below

displays actual group number, group size and composition of C. a palliatus within Gonja

and Majoreni forest reserves without analysis. The average group size of C. a palliatus

was estimated at 4.5 (omitting single sightings). Average troop size was estimated from

sighting qualities of 2 and 3 only.

Colobus Gro

up

Solit

ary

Obs

erve

d

Adul

t

Mal

es

Adul

t

Fem

ales

Adul

t

Unk

now

n

Sub

Adul

ts

Gre

y

Juve

nile

s

Whi

te

Infa

nts

Gonja 1 0 5 3 2

Gonja 0 1 1 1

Gonja 0 1 1 1

Gonja 0 1 1 1

Gonja 1 0 4 1 3

Gonja 0 1 1 1

Majoreni 1 0 3 1 1 1

Total 3 4 16 5 5 6 0 0 0

Table 3-6. Total count and composition of C. a palliatus groups observed in the Gonja and Majoreni forest reserves

Gonja and Majoreni forest reserves were dry, coastal forest. Gonja river past through the

reserve and was continually dry throughout the census. There was a lower canopy

cover, and the vegetation comprised of thick, dry bush with minimal trees seen. The

edge of the forest was densely populated, with a high degree of human disturbance

seen within the reserve illustrated by very few trees and many log piles present. Least

disturbed patches of the forest were located within the Northern territory, where the

majority of C. a palliatus were spotted. Figure 3-5 below shows the transect’s surveyed

and colobus group locations.


Figure 3-5. Survey transects with C. a palliatus locations in the Gonja and Majoreni forest reserves

Group locations were plotted using a Garmin Etrex GPS.

3.4.9 Primate Census Dzombo Forest Reserve

The census in Dzombo forest reserve provided 24 sightings of primates within the total

40 transects/pathways surveyed. Sightings occurred on 13 of the 40 transects surveyed.

C. a palliatus were seen on 16 occasions. A total of 55 individual colobus, comprising of

11 groups and 5 solitary males were recorded. No juvenile or infant C. a palliatus were

identified during the survey, and 23 individuals were of unknown age/sex class. All

solitary individuals recorded were identified as males. In addition, 2 troops of P.

cynocephalus were sighted, with 4 groups heard, and 6 troops of C. m albogularis

sighted, 3 occasions of a 0 sighting quality. As within Gonja forest, population estimation

Kenya/Tanzania tarmac road

Gonja Forest Majoreni Forest


using the programme DISTANCE 5.0 was not used as the data sighting observation

number was too small to yield viable results (Buckland, 2001).

Census surveys only concerned with densities of C. a palliatus. Table 3-7 below displays

actual group number, group size and composition of C. a palliatus recorded in Dzombo

forest reserve. The average group size was estimated at 4.5 individuals (omitting single

sightings). Average troop size was estimated only from sighting qualities of 2 and 3.

Colobus

Gro

up

Solit

ar

y Obs

er

ved

Adul

t

Mal

es

Adul

t

Fem

al

Adul

t

Unk

no

Sub

Adul

ts

Gre

y

Juve

nil

Whi

te

Infa

nts

1 0 4 1 2 1

1 0 5 2 3

0 1 1 1

1 0 5 1 1 2 1

1 0 10 7 3

1 0 4 3 1

1 0 2 1 1

1 0 3 1 2

1 0 6 1 1 3

0 1 1 1

0 1 1 1

0 1 1 1

1 0 7 1 4 2

1 0 2 1 1

0 1 1 1

1 0 2 1 2

Total 11 5 55 11 12 23 9 0 0 0 Table 3-7. Total count and composition of C. a palliatus groups recorded within Dzombo forest

reserve

The forest habitat in Dzombo varied from secondary growth woodland on the lower

slopes near to local agricultural land, to tall, untouched primary forest at higher


elevations. Figure 3-6 below shows the surveyed transect area (green lines) and the

location of C. a palliatus troops. Locations of C. a palliatus were marked using a GPS.

Most groups were located at higher elevations, furthest away from the human

settlements and in least disturbed parts of the forest. Habitats and vegetation surveys

were not undertaken therefore cannot be shown on the map below. A single male group

was located near the edge of the forest reserve, in secondary, disturbed forest. C. a

palliatus locations varied from 146m in elevation to the highest sighted at 357m

elevation. The highest point of the reserve is 445m.

Figure 3-6. Survey transects and C. a palliatus locations within the Dzombo forest Reserve

The red line indicates the boundary of the forest, with green lines the paths surveyed.

3.5 Discussion



This is now the fourth primate community survey that has been applied in 2007, thus

giving us an annual estimate of C. a palliatus population. This was estimated at 144

individuals, in the 2.2km2 Shimoni forest (east). Despite the relatively small size of the

forest, it holds a large, viable population of C. a palliatus, which Anderson (2007)

highlights as on of the largest and most important populations of this species in Kenya.

This forest is an indigenous forest patch, with a variety of rare and endangered endemic

plant and animal species. This expedition has seen a high increase in land clearance,

with clearings extending 1km north and 250m west from the beginning of transect 4. In

addition, charcoal burning has now emerged as a rapidly expanding form of resource

use. No charcoal pits were observed before September 2007, however 16 charcoal pits

were observed found between October-December 2007. This poses a new and

significant threat to the C. a palliatus population due to habitat loss, from increased

deforestation and human settlement. The high population of C. a palliatus residing within

the Shimoni forest, and the high number of endemic plant and animal species, renders

the conservation and protection of the forest of major local, national and international

importance.

3.5.2 Primate Behaviour Survey

Colobines have large, four chambered, polygastric stomachs, permitting fermentation by

anaerobic cellulytic bacteria (Struhsaker & Leland, 1974). This ruminant like digestion

allows them to exploit leaf diets generally unavailable to other primates. Most species

show a greater preference for young leaves that are higher in protein, and are found

high up in the canopy, suggesting why this species is found here rather than due to

competition from other anthropoid species or shyness to human presence. Due to leaf

cover, it becomes difficult to observe individuals at high canopy levels, explaining the low

percentage of time recorded in feeding behaviours (11.7%). However, an adaption for

mature, tough leaves enables this species to live in high densities, as food competition

becomes relatively low and foraging time reduced. In addition, smaller groups (as seen

within the study area, with average group size calculated at 4, with the maximum

number recorded at 8) deplete food sources less quickly and therefore can afford to

remain in one area for long periods (Fimbel et al 2001). Groups were easily located as

their movements seemed minimal, and some were found in one or two trees for weeks


at a time, shown by the reduced time spent travelling. Mature leaves require effective

detoxification (Kay & Davis 1994), and a high amount of energy is devoted to digestion,

relating to large amounts of time spent resting, as seen within the results (68.6%).

In many groups of C. a palliatus within Shimoni forest (east), two or more males have

found to be present, with one all male group observed. This is believed to be temporary,

and associated with male replacements or young males maturing within their natal group

(Struhsaker & Leland, 1974). It has been noted in groups with multi males, that one male

seems to have a thicker white stripe when compared to other males within the group. It

is thought that this is related to age, representing older, dominant males. However, there

is remains conjecture.

A recent event involving a frequently studided group in a large clearing at the beginning

of transect 4, included 3 different colobus groups all vocalizing for an hour. This clearing

is expanding each expedition, with more trees cleared and charcoal pits appearing. This

is may be putting additional pressure on C. a palliatus to hold territories, and it would be

interesting to compare group home range living on the edges or within clearings, to

territory sizes in less disturbed forest. Apart from the loud vocalizations exhibited from

these groups, no aggressive encounters were witnessed. Relations within troops of

colobus are peaceful and close, reflecting the placid dispositions of leaf eating monkeys

(Estes 1991).

Grooming behaviour was seen at very low levels. Grooming behaviour normally occur

within the resting periods, early in the morning or late evening (Estes, 1997). However,

when grooming was observed, females were the groomers more of the time than were

males. This is expected as within C. a palliatus, males emigrate and females remain

within there natal groups. Individuals that are related show high levels of grooming

towards each other than towards unrelated individuals (Struhsaker & Leland, 1974).

Four primate groups have can now be confidently recognized, therefore allowing

comparison between group behaviour, home range and composition. Data of this type

will yield interesting results for the populations residing within the forest.



A species list for avian diversity has confidently recorded 70 species of birds within

Shimoni forest (east). Two species identified within this forest, Fischers Turaco (Tauraco

fischeri) and the southern banded snake eagle (Circaetus fasciolatus) are classified by

IUCN as near threatened. The species’ discovery curve is still growing exponentially,

expressing the importance of surveys to be continued. Previous visits from ornithologists

from birdlife international have identified 117 different species within the Shimoni forest

(east). Casual observations are also increasing the species list. Due to difficulties

expressed by visual constraints of a forest environment, bird song identification has seen

an increase in successful species identification.

3.5.4 Fruit and Flower

Trichilia emetica (locally known as cape mahogany) was found fruiting in high

abundance throughout the survey area, with the exception of highly disturbed re-growth

forest and clearings. The most abundant tree species within fruit (October–December

2007) was found to be Millettia usaramensis, and several Ficus spp. High densities of C.

a palliatus are seen resting, socializing and feeding within Trichillia emetica, Antiarias

toxicaria and Millettia usaramensis, highlighting the importance of these for primate

populations. Distressingly, both T. emetica and A. toxicaria are exploited, as the hard

wood species is used in construction and furniture businesses.

3.5.5 Canopy Surveys

Canopy surveys continue to provide valuable data on seasonality of canopy density in

support of primate surveys. Mean canopy cover was lower than in previous expeditions,

and may be explained by two factors. The low level of rain due to the onset of the dry

season, has seen an increase in falling leaves, and clearing of the forest for farmland

has been more intense.



A yearly analysis of butterfly data has now been obtained sampling different micro-

habitats and to assess seasonal variation in the butterfly community. Casual

observations have shown that a large number of butterfly species present in the forest

did not frequent the traps (e.g Papilio and Pentila spp), seemingly unattracted to the

existing bait. A different bait would now be beneficial, to gain information on other

species residing within the forest.

3.5.7 Casual Observations

Casual observations have increased estimates of diversity, and new species not

previously identified have been recorded. This survey methodology has proved to be

successful, yielding new species each expedition. An interesting find this expedition was

a hairy bat (Myotis spp) within the daylight hours. This is an insectivorous species of a

relatively large group of bats inhabiting a wide range of vegetation types and altitudes

(Kingdon, 1997). No documented findings of bat species have yet been recorded within

our surveys. Nocturnal surveys would therefore be useful to undertake, including bat

mist netting, increasing the species lists for the area.

3.5.8 Census Surveys

Census surveys conducted in Gonja forest reserve recorded a decrease in colobus

number, with only 13 individuals sighted, in comparison with 24 on the 2001 census.

However, a group of 3 individuals were seen in Majoreni, with none seen previously.

Although this forest is large (4.22km2) in comparison to Shimoni forest (east) (2.2km2),

the resulting colobus population was significantly low. A high amount of human

disturbance was observed during the census, with few trees and much secondary

regrowth. Human encroachment was seen on all sides of the forest boundaries, and

burning of land apparent, with large areas of grassland present within the reserve itself.

Comparisons of the forest boundary from 2001 and present show a decrease within the

area, seemingly from human encroachment around the boundaries.

Dzombo forest saw an increase in Colobus number, 55 compared to the 17 observed in

2001. Again, much of the forest on the lower slopes saw areas of human disturbance,


with many access paths for fire wood collection, livestock grazing and seasonal burning

on the south-western edges. Snares and baboon traps were identified in the 2001

census; however, none were discovered during the present surveys. This may explain

the increase in colobus number over the past six years.

Although both forests surveyed are protected reserves under, both still appear subject to

high levels of human disturbance through clearance, seasonal burning, timber and pole

extraction and charcoal production. Both populations are isolated, with the next nearest

forest patch containing C. a palliatus being 4.38km from Dzombo, and 15km from Gonja.

Although hunting of C. a palliatus is not documented within these forest patches, a local

child living at the base of Dzombo forest informed us that he had an ‘mbega’ skin (local

name for colobus).

C. a palliatus however, have been known to travel through, and reside in, plantations

and ‘non-forest’ habitats, providing there is an arboreal pathway and a food source. It

would therefore, be useful for future research to be conducted in areas between forests

with known C. a palliatus, providing implications for the species population as a whole.

Further census work on other forest patches within the Kwale district is needed for

completion of the census, and so that a current population estimate of C. a palliatus in

Kenya can be determined.

3.6 Recommendations and Future Work

A yearly analysis has been obtained for primate community. As human disturbance in

the form of forest clearance and charcoal pits have significantly increased within the past

three months, an assessment of C. a palliatus home range, in relation to distribution and

levels of disturbance would be valuable to assess the impact on the population.

Shimoni forest (west) located on the west side of the Shimoni village also holds a large

population of C. a palliatus (192 counted in September 2007). Primate community

surveys will provide data on this highly important and rapidly diminishing coastal forest.


Trapping of butterflies using the canopy traps will be continued in Shimoni (east) and

there may be value in trialling different bait types, assessing and identifying species that

are not attracted to the present bait type. Complimenting the canopy traps with other

survey methods, such as sweep netting should also be considered.

Casual observations continue to reveal greater faunal diversity. Although some of the

large terrestrial mammals have been identified, it is thought many nocturnal species are

yet to be spotted. Night/dusk walks would be beneficial, revealing nocturnal or shy

species, e.g genets and civets (Family: Viverridae), and aardvarks (Orycteropus afer).

Bat mist netting would provide a record of bat species within the forest, increasing the

species list.

Bird surveys will be continued as the species list is still increasing. Recordings of

species from song alongside sightings have proved to be efficient, enabling further

identification of species.

Vegetation surveys completion needs to be obtained in Shimoni forest (east). With aid of

the botanist, more plant species can be identified and a density estimation of these

species presence in the forest obtained.

The Zanj elephant shrew (Rhynchocyon petersi) is an endemic species of coastal

forests. It is classified as data deficient. Surveys to estimate population, habitat

preference and behaviour will be of great importance and aid in conservation initiatives

to protect the forest.


4. Community Development Programme

4.1 Introduction

The community development programme falls broadly into 4 main areas; TEFL teaching

in Mkwiro Primary School; TEFL teaching in adult classes to local community members;

orphanage support and sustainable community projects.

With regard to the TEFL teaching, the EMs received the 2-day training course on TEFL

on arrival in Mkwiro focusing not only on the adult classes, but also on TEFL for children.

In the first phase, the EMs designed a lesson to give to the Standard 7 and 8 classes at

Mkwiro Primary School and conducted one-on-one reading classes. This training was

successful with several EMs feeling confident enough to present classes as the lead-

teacher during the expedition. During this expedition, all of GVI’s classes with Standards

5-8 at Mkwiro Primary School have been arranged in double lessons and lessons with

Standard 1-4 have been single lessons. Due to the school holidays taking up a large part

of this expedition’s community time, and as the students were attending the Madrasa

Islamic School, we were only able to conduct normal classroom lessons for 4 weeks

during the expedition. During the holidays, we were able to use Madrasa classes for the

first time for environmental and cultural education. We also conducted a drama

workshop for the students in the break.

The adult classes have included simultaneous beginners and advanced classes for the

men and the women had a single class. These classes continued to be popular and

have continued to help build capacity for tourism, enterprises and build confidence within

the village. Visits to the Al-Hanan Orphanage have been two-to-three times weekly

during both the school term and in the holidays and we have been involved with the

orphanage throughout the expedition with help and support as needed. Various

community projects have been started or continued during this expedition, and we have

worked alongside the Mkwiro Youth Conservation Group, Village Committee, Dispensary

Committee, Tumaini Women’s Group and individuals to work on aspects such as

fundraising, developing capacity for tourism, the village tour and developing markets and

revenue for local enterprises.


We worked together with Shimoni Primary School and the Olive Rehabilitation Centre in

Mombasa to conduct environmental education classes on Saturdays, focussing on

primate ecology this expedition. Other new developments include using the Mkwiro

Primary School lesson breaks for library time involving one-on-one reading practice with

the learners and spending time on base creating posters and teachers’ aids for the

school, nursery school and dispensary.

Figure 4-1. Papier-mâché recycling to make chilli planters with Shimoni Primary students

4.2 School Education

Following the Kenyan syllabus, we have been working on the New Progressive Primary

Schools English syllabus books (teacher and student copies), and have been using

these as the basis around which our lessons are planned. As it was the end of the

school year, we spent the first 6 weeks of the expedition on revision chapters for the


students. We have conducted more than 21 hours of English lessons. In terms of extra-

curricular study, we have conducted 9.5 hours of tutorial work with Standard 8 helping

them to prepare for their final exams. We continued special reading lessons with the

Standard 6-8 students where they come individually to our base for one-on-one reading

time. This has benefited more than 50 of the learners so far, and the individual time has

motivated both the EMs and the students. The library has been opened up during the

school breaks for students to come for private reading with the EMs. EMs also helped

the Standard 8 students to prepare for their exams by leading the school’s night classes

in the run up to the tests.

When the Primary School finished their school year, we were able to arrange classes at

the Madrasa Islamic School on subjects such as dolphin and primate ecology as well as

cultural introductions and climatic regions of Kenya. This was a success for the students,

EMs and also for the Madrasa teachers who were exposed to a new teaching style

during our visits.

As our Saturday programme, we invited the Olive Rehabilitation Centre from Mombasa

and Shimoni Primary School to visit our satellite camp base in Shimoni for a weekly

programme of primate ecology education, recycling lesson and forest visit.

During the school holidays, we created a drama workshop for the Standard 6, 7 and 8

students, using the story of Mwauzi Tumbe, a local legend in Mkwiro. Over 4 days, the

students worked with the EMs to create props, set, dialogue and costumes to present to

the village. Over 150 people were present to watch the students act the play.

4.3 Adult Education

During this expedition, we have conducted over 40 hours of classes to the women’s and

men’s classes. The men’s class was split into beginners and advanced levels and the

women returned to the format of one-level classes. The advanced classes have covered

topics as diverse as Letter Writing, HIV and AIDS, Health and Safety and Reading for

Fluency. With the beginners’ class, we have been working on spellings, past tense, parts

of the body and sicknesses as well as vocabulary and skills relating to the student’s jobs.

We have also spent time working with the Primary School teachers to teach computer

lessons using a downloaded series of lessons from a British University. This is a


valuable addition to the capacity building, as the teachers are becoming increasingly

able to teach the students in the Primary School on computers.

4.4 Al Hanan Orphanage

We have been visiting the orphanage every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for an hour

and a half each day. We have spent more than 20 hours at the orphanage during this

expedition. Activities have included games, homework, reading help, sports, drawing

and painting.

4.5 Satellite Camp

Working in collaboration with the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA),

GVI successfully completed its fifth series of satellite camps with former poaching

communities in Taveta-Taita district. The 3 communities (Kidong, Mahandikini &

Kasaani) had historically poached wildlife for their own subsistence purposes, while also

supplying the local and trans-boundary bush meat demand. The top threat to wildlife

sustainability in the nearby Tsavo West national park and local non/protected areas,

however, is the bush meat trade - an increasingly destructive and lucrative international

practice surpassing habitat loss as the greatest threat to tropical wildlife (Bennet et al,

2006 as cited by Omonde 2006). Therefore, in order to negate the impact of this trade

on local wildlife, and to simultaneously improve the livelihood options for ex-poaching

communities, GVI continue to implement capacity-building exercises in each of the three

villages. A fourth village, that of Mtakuja, had previously been involved in the satellite

camps; however, due to internal problems and issues of land ownership, it was again not

possible to implement a satellite camp with the group this expedition. However, after GVI

recently met with Mtakuja group members, it is anticipated that the issues preventing

their participation will soon be resolved.

Overall, GVI delivered approximately 62 hours of lessons to the 3 communities. These

lessons also involved close guidance and supervision from 24 EMs. Attendance was

generally excellent, with classes comprising between 10 – 20 members. Each satellite

camp consisted of a tree-planting session, with EMs and community members planting a

cumulative total of 87 trees in the expedition. Each group was also taught on how to

produce fuel-efficient stoves, with all materials being locally-sourced. With these efforts,


it is anticipated that the groups will be able to generate income from tree products, save

money and time on fuel purchase and collection, improve health and well-being while

also improving the condition of the local eco-system. Summaries from each satellite

camp will now be presented.

4.5.1 Mahandakini Satellite Camp

The Mahandikini Youth Network for Animal Welfare and Rights (herein Mahandikini

group) are looking to substitute poaching with a bee-keeping enterprise, with 65 bee-

hives having recently been delivered from the Kenyan company Honeycare. The first

satellite camp had a strong income-generation theme to it, with EMs delivering a class

focusing on ways to start a small-scale business. EMs and group members then

together identified service/product needs within Mahandakini community, and how group

members using their resources could fill these needs. This was particularly productive,

as it highlighted areas in which Mahandakini group members could fill certain service

gaps (i.e. by providing bicycle service/repairs, by providing fuel from distant Taveta to

farmers using generators). The satellite camp also involved a tree-planting session, as

well as a tomato-processing workshop. The Mahandakini group members produce a glut

of tomatoes which annually go to waste. This is mainly due to lack of preservation and

storage options. So, the focus was on preserving and adding value to tomatoes. Sun-

drying techniques were carried out by EMs and group members (fig 4.3), as were

processes to create products from tomatoes (tomato jam, tomato chutney and tomato

ketchup). Following this, there were workshops on how to properly clean and sterilize

used glass jars, with techniques also shown on how to fill jars with tomato products (with

hygiene, safety and optimal preservation kept in mind). With these new skills, the group

are now interested in determining the potential for selling tomato products in

Mahandakini and further a field in Taveta.

As Mtakuja could not be involved in the satellite camp this expedition, it was decided to

use Mahandakini as a substitute village. This satellite camp involved EMs discussing

matters to do with smoke inhalation, and immediate actions that could be taken to

reduce indoor smoke from cooking fires. This class was led by two EM’s, and involved a

lot of discussion and debate about current cooking methods and ways in which they

could change. Another component of this satellite camp was the delivery of a seed-bank


lesson. With a seed bank basically being a storage system for seeds, and with

Mahandakini looking to initiate a tree nursery, the lesson was very appropriate. The

lesson introduced ideas to the group on how to initiate a seed bank, such as when to

organise seed collections, methods of storage, stock-taking of seeds and holding seed

fairs. One important aspect was for the group to collate all members’ knowledge on tree

and plant species, such as planting and harvesting periods, as well as seed harvesting

periods. The group are also looking to build on this information by utilizing expert advice

from nearby tree nurseries, thus better informing future practices.

4.5.2 Kidong Satellite Camp

The Kidong Conservation and Development Community-based Organisation (herein

Kidong group) are aspiring to create a cultural centre, with the hope that tourism

revenues provide a viable alternative income. The satellite camp this expedition

concentrated on another objective of the group, that being of energy. EMs and group

members successfully planted out 23 seedlings of different species, with the anticipated

benefits being income-generation from tree products, saved money and time on fuel

purchase and collection, timber for construction of the cultural centre while reducing

impacts of deforestation on the local environment. Another component of the satellite

camp was a fuel-efficient stove workshop. Firstly, group members and EMs

demonstrated how to make the special mud for the stove (fig 4.2). This was then applied

around a mould of tree stumps, which would later be removed to create cavities for wood

and heat. The potential benefits are up to 70% savings on firewood, quicker cooking

times, reduced smoke in the kitchen (promoting health) and the ability to cook on two

stoves instead of one. Another positive is that all materials for the stove are locally

available and cost nothing

4.5.3 Kasaani Satellite Camp

The Kasaani Group for Animal Protection (herein Kasaani group) are keen to initiate a

bee-keeping project in their locality; having recently received 65 beehives from Kenyan-

based company Honeycare. Due to the location of Kasaani being very close to the

border of Tsavo West National Park, they are accordingly suffering from high-levels of

human-wildlife conflict. So, it was apt to introduce methods in reducing conflict with wild


animals. Mixing elephant dung with crushed chilli, EM’s demonstrated to group members

a new technique which has been deterring elephants from crops. With chilli being locally-

available and easily grown, the Kasaani group now have an effective and economical

way of guarding food crops from wild animals. Other elements of this satellite camp were

a business class, a tree-planting session, a fuel-efficient stove workshop and ways to

reduce smoke inhalation in kitchen environs.

Fig 4-2. EMs make a fuel-efficient stove Fig 4-3. Preparing tomatoes for sun-drying

4.6 Capacity Building

The Capacity Building section of the expedition has been a huge success this

expedition, with lots of projects being pushed forwards or completed. A cooking class

run by 5 local women has transformed from an idea to a fledgling business with

marketing posters being displayed in the last week of the expedition. Another community

member has been helped by GVI to start a new business making model dhow boats. He

is now making money and has several orders underway thanks to his own hard work

and the help of EMs with marketing and business planning.


The Mkwiro Youth Conservation Group have been able to make and sell products at the

Shimoni jetty to tourists towards the end of the expedition thanks to on-going efforts of

GVI and the group. We invited the group’s chairman to GVI during our capacity building

time to learn computer and fundraising skills and to act as a liaison between GVI and the

group. The stall is now selling all products which are ‘Made in Mkwiro’, and other

individuals are also making money from the arrangement. This is a huge step forward for

the tourism capacity of the village, and the group have been motivated.

Meetings have continued with Mkwiro Dispensary Committee to develop an effective

proposal for the donation available from Timberland Clothing Company to find a

sustainable way to fund the Mkwiro nurse. Having decided that running a ferry service

will no longer be financially viable due to other new operators, Mkwiro Dispensary

Committee are considering investing in an minibus to operate a public transport service

between Shimoni and Likoni. However there is a significant shortfall form the moeny

available and the committee have as yet been unable to propose a solution to this or a

workable alternative.

We have taken on three Kenyans as part of the National Scholarship Programme this

expedition. Nigel de Mello and Ekens Okemwa are students from KWS Training Institute

studying for diplomas in Wildlife Management and Environmental Management

respectively. Hassan Amiri from Mkwiro village also joined us for the second five weeks,

having finished his High School certificates. As well as generally strengthening the

relationship between GVI and Mkwiro village, the additional knowledge and skills will

hugely benefit Hassan.

In addition the chairman of Mahandakini group joined us for 2 weeks to improve his

leadership skills and gain experience of working in English, budgeting and project

management.

4.7 Employment

Currently, there are several local staff employed by GVI:

Marine staff: 1

Boat drivers/security: 5


Base security: 3

The expedition members get a great deal of added enjoyment and understanding of the

local culture and way of life by working closely with these local staff. We are also helping

to build capacity within our local staff by helping them to improve their English and

offering computer lessons and practice when machines are available. GVI also supports

local enterprises in the community including bread and samosa makers, the village tailor

and curio sellers who brings a stall to base.

4.8 GVI Charitable Trust

GVI has helped to sponsor 5 children to secondary school in full this expedition through

donations to the expedition through GVI CT. The Orphanage committee have asked for

the remainder of money previously pledged to the orphanage to go towards buying metal

beds for the boys which has now been done. Our relationship with the orphanage

remains strong and all parties are very appreciative of GVI CT. Some of our EMs used

their Interest Group time to investigate further fundraising for the orphanage, school,

dispensary and other projects in the village.

4.9 Summary

GVI’s involvement in the local community in Mkwiro as well as in Shimoni and Wasini

through English teaching, capacity building and help with the orphanage has made a

tangible difference to the lives of the community members. Next expedition we hope to

continue to improve the amount of reading, computer access and English language

being received in the students’ free time by actively helping out in the new school

resource centre. We are also looking forward to continuing the business ideas and

fundraising help and increasing the capacity building activities amongst the adults.


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6. Appendices


DATE: VESSEL: OBSERVERS (Initials): PAGE ______OF______Environmental Conditions

Time Event South 04° East 039° Effort Trans Bearing WPT Speed Cloud Swell BFT Vis Tide Wind Comments(24hrs) # T I D

Events: Effort Type: Beaufort Cloud Cover: Precipitation Tide:01 - Start of survey day LT - Line Transect 0 - Glass Measure in eigths Type Ebb - High to low02 - Change in effort type CW- Casual watch 01- Ripples e.g. 0/8 - clear N - None Flood - Low to High03 - Sighting (DS OR MFS) DS - Dedicated search 02 - small waveletss R - Rain04 - Start of transect PI - Photo ID 03 - occasional whitecaps05 - End of transect 04 - Frequent whitecaps06 - Change of course 05 - Many whitecaps Visibility (km): - Intensitity CHECKED07 - Bft/Env/Spd change Boat Speed: Swell: 0-1 heavy rain I - Intermittent Initials08 - Other/15 minute recording (use GPS) 0 - no/weak swell 1-10 C - continuous09 - End of survey day 1 - intermediate swell >10

2 - strong swell

EVENT LOG

4/8 - half sky o/c 8/8 - over cast

ENTERED ON COMPUTER

STAFF (Initials):

Precip

Appendix A


Sightings Form Entered onto computer □

Date: Vessel: Skipper: Recorder:

CommentsNumber of BoatsMin Max BestTime

Latitude South 04°

Longitude East 039°

Effort type

CHECKED (initials)

Group size

Sighting number

Survey number MFS/ DS Species

Tide Ebb/Flood

Angle to sighting (P or S)

Distance to sighting

Spotted because Dhows? Yes/No

Photo-ID? Yes/No

Appendix B


Appendix C

Date (YYYY-MM-DD)

Photographers

Initials

DS or MFS #

Vessel Initials (SR or ET)

Roll # :

Photo- ID Data Sheet

Date:

Survey Number (MFS or DS): Start time: End time:

Photographer: Camera: Scribe:

Frame # Notes


Megafauna Survey Form (10/06) Vessel: Entered Checked MFS#

Date

South 04 East 039 Wpt #

Staff

Recorder

Start End Depth

General Location Closest Habitat Notes

Temp

Species

Bft

Tide: Ebb Flood

Number Present

NOTES Roll 2: (date/ID): Frames: Spacers(s):

Photo Notes:

Megafauna Survey Form (10/06) Vessel: Entered Checked MFS#

Date

South 04 East 039 Wpt #

Staff

Recorder

Start End Depth

General Location Closest Habitat Notes

Temp

Species

Bft

Tide: Ebb Flood

Number Present

NOTES Roll 2: (date/ID): Frames: Spacers(s):

Photo Notes:

Appendix D


OBSERVERS: PAGE ______OF______DATE: Environmental Conditions Boat Traffic

Time (24hrs) T I

Cloud Cover: Beaufort: Visibility (km): Precipitation Vessel TypeMeasure in eigths 0-1 heavy fog Type SR - Stingraye.g. 0/8 - clear 01- Ripples 1-10 N - none CF - Fishing Canoe 4/8 - half the sky overcast02 - small waveletss >10 R - rain CS - Sailing Canoe 8/8 - over cast D - Power Dhow (non-tourist)

04 - Frequent whitecaps TD - Tourist DhowSwell: 05 - Many whitecaps Tide: Intensitity SD - Sailing Dhow (non-tourist)0 - no/weak swell Ebb - High to low I - intermittent C - canoe (paddling)1 - intermediate swell Flood - Low to High C - continuous S - Sailboat2 - strong swell P - Powerboat

03 - occasional whitecaps

No. of Vessels

Checked (Initials)

Entered on computer

Comments Number of each type of vessel i.e.

PrecipTide

0 - Glass

LAND BASED SIGHTINGS: ENVIRONMENT AND BOAT

Observers SwellCloud BFT Wind Direction Vis

Appendix E


LAND BASED: SIGHTINGSDATE: PAGE ______OF______

Dolphins and Megafauna

CommentsMin Max Best

Bearing Distance Dolphin species (Spp) Tide:Bnd - Bottlenose E - Ebb - High to lowHbd - Humpback F - Flood - Low to HighSpd - Spinnner Rsd - Risso's Cod - Common Checked (Initials)StD - Striped PtD - Pan-tropical Spotted Unk - unknown species

Count short reticles as halves

OBSERVERS (Initials):

Read by observer from compass at bottom of binocular view

Use reticles in binoculars counting down from the top of the horizon or shoreline

ENTERED ON COMPUTER

Time (24 hrs) BearingSighting

observer's initials

Sighting Distance

Plot # on chartSpecies

Group size Tide (ebb or flood)

Appendix F


DATE:

Min Max Best

Dolphin species (Spp) Dive Type Spread ENTERED ON Bnd - Bottlenose Rg - Regular COMPUTERHbd - Humpback Td - Tail-out Tig - Tight (< 2 m)Spd - Spinnner Pd - Peduncle Mod - Moderate (2 - <5 m)Rsd - Risso's Rs - Rapid Surface Spr - Spread (5 -10 m)Cod - Common Rt - Rooster Tail Wsp - Widespread (>10 m) Checked (Initials)StD - Striped Lp - LeapPtD - Pan-tropical Spotted Pp - PorpoiseUnk - unknown species Snag - Snag

P - Powerboat

D - Power Dhow (non-tourist) TD - Tourist DhowSD - Sailing Dhow (non-tourist)C - canoe (paddling)

SR - StingrayCF - Fishing CanoeCS - Sailing Canoe

S - Sailboat

Vessel type

Record every 5 min./after each dive cycle from 1st sightingOBSERVERS:

Vessel Type

Split into sub-

groups (Yes or

No)

# dhows swim with dolphins

#Tourist dhows

# Vessels present

CommentsSpread

Group size

LANDBASE SURVEY: DOLPHIN BEHAVIOUR

Time Dive Type

Dive Duration Spp

PAGE: OFView Obstructed by boats (Yes or No)

Appendix G


Appendix H

Date: Time start: Time finish: Weather: Wind: still / light breeze / firm breeze / storm

Team's full names: Cloud cover (0/8-8/8):

GPS start: GPS finish: Location: Precipitation: dry / rain / showers

Time sighted Common name Scientific name No. individuals Notes / description (if unsure I.D.)

gvi kenya expedition 074 report final

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