Effect of temperature and rainfall variability on greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) population in Lake Bogoria landscape, Kenya

Abstract

Climate change is one of the major factors threatening biodiversity and ecosystem services. Studies have proved that extremely high or low temperatures may lead to habitat degradation for the large herbivores in the Kenyan Savanna. Greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros), a large herbivore within Lake Bogoria Landscape (LBL) in Baringo County, Kenya is a major tourist attraction thus important revenue contributor for the County. Limited information on the effects of temperature and rainfall variability on greater kudu (GK) population in the landscape forms basis for this study. Long-term (1981 - 2022) temperature and rainfall monthly data was obtained from Kenya Meteorological Department. Transect line survey data collected by Lake Bogoria National Game Reserve since the year 2019 and data collected during the study period in 2022 were used to assess the abundance, distribution and trends of Kudu population for the last four (4) years.  It was found that there is long-term and seasonal variation of maximum temperature, minimum temperature and rainfall and that both maximum and minimum temperature variability (r(1) = -.42, p > 0.05 and r(1) = .45, p > 0.05 respectively) and rainfall (r(1) = -.10, p > 0.05) did not significantly affect GK population although 98% of the total variation in GK population was related to rainfall variability. It was concluded that temperature and rainfall extremes have affect GK dispersal in the landscape. Deliberate efforts by conservation agencies to create awareness on effects of climate change, and the necessary governance structures and financial support provided towards adoption of sustainable and affordable production technologies will improve livelihoods of the communities.