Spatial distribution and period of activity of the forest elephant (Loxodonta africana cyclotis) at Taï National Park, south western Côte d'Ivoire

Abstract

Objective: This study aims at determining the spatial distribution and  period of activities of the forest elephant (Loxodonta africana cyclotis) at Taï National Park (TNP) to contribute to its conservation.
Methodology and results: Observations of elephants at different locations and time periods were recorded by using 87 camera traps with date and time-stamped settings. Cameras were installed following a systematic placement approach, and their geographic coordinates were recorded using a GPS. After 120 days of trapping, we observed a high concentration of activities in the southern areas of the park. For the period of activities, we noted that observations of unit individuals were recurrent during the day while those of elephant groups were more important at night.
Conclusion and application of the results: The south of the park where  there is a large distribution of elephants would be more favourable to these animals. The small number and remoteness of large cities on the periphery of this area of the park could explain that pattern. The distribution and activity period information is useful for park surveillance by rangers. In addition, further studies are needed for a better explanation on the distribution pattern of elephants at TNP.

Key words: Taï National Park, elephant, camera traps, distribution, activity period.