bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The ecology of the Kafue lechwe population of Zambia before the operation of hydro‐electric dams on the Kafue River
Authors: SAYER J. A. , LAVIEREN L. P. VAN
Published: April 2008

Aerial surveys from 1970 onwards suggest a stable Kafue lechwe population of 94 000±9% on the Kafue Flats. The present distribution shows a contraction in dry and wet season range in comparison with 1953/54.

Sex ratios of populations on both the North and South banks of the Kafue river do not differ significantly from unity. North bank males have a higher survival rate than South bank males. Survival curves for males and females on the South bank show the same pattern. For both the 1971 and 1972 breeding seasons 73% of South bank females older than 1½ years are expected to have bred successfully. The peaks of conceptions for both seasons are from mid‐December to mid‐March, suggesting a main lambing period from mid‐July until mid‐October. Present sex ratio, age structure, reproductive status and the reproductive cycle have been compared with 1961/62 data.

Variation in physical condition, based on monthly measurements of the kidney fat percentage, dressing‐out percentage and live weight, although influenced by the physiological demands of rut and pregnancy, is correlated with the availability of flood‐plain grazing. The lowest values of condition parameters are found during the period of maximum flood, after the end of the rains (April/May), until the receding flood makes flood‐plain grazing available, usually in early June. A high level of tuberculosis, lungworm infection and many other pathogens amongst the South bank population are reported. Animals from the North bank are thought to be in better physical condition.

The Kafue Gorge dam, completed in 1971, and the Iteshi‐teshi dam, at present under construction, will prolong the high flood period in wet years and prevent most flooding in dry years, both of these effects will reduce the carrying capacity of the flood plain for lechwe and a large reduction of the size of the population is expected to result from the operation of the dams.
Abundance and distribution of elephants in the Luangwa Valley, Zambia
Authors: CAUGHLEY GRAEME , GODDARD JOHN
Published: April 2008

Elephant density over 40 000 km2 of the Luangwa Valley was estimated as 2–17 km‐2 to give a population size of around 86 000 in that area, a tally that would probably top 100 000 if unsurveyed areas within the drainage had been included. Seasonal movement is largely restricted to a migration on to the riverine strip during the wet season and reciprocal dispersal across the valley thereafter. The mean annual range of movement is about 25 km.
Population dynamics and food habits of the banded mongoose
Authors: ROOD JON P.
Published: April 2008

A population of approximately 100 banded mongooses living in six packs was studied for over 2 years in Rwenzori National Park, Uganda. The packs were relatively stable, cohesive social units composed of approximately equal numbers of males and females and varied in size from six to thirty‐five adults and subadults.

Breeding was synchronized within the packs with several females producing their litters at approximately the same time. The packs bred up to four times per year. Mortality of animals over 6 months old was approximately 10% annually. Less than 50% of juveniles survived to the age of 3 months.

The banded mongoose feeds primarily on invertebrates, particularly millipedes and beetles. Ants, crickets, termites and earwigs are also important elements of the diet. Vertebrate remains were found in 12% of the droppings analysed. Although the pack forages as a unit each individual finds its own food.

The mean home range size of five of the packs was 80‐4 ha; the two largest packs had ranges exceeding 1 km2. The banded mongoose is strictly diurnal typically leaving a den in the hour following sunrise and returning a few minutes before sunset with a prolonged rest during the heat of the day. Dens were in termite mounds (usually in thicket clumps), erosion gullies, aardvark holes and occasionally in man‐made structures. Most were used for only a few days and then abandoned but a few preferred dens were occupied for periods up to 54 days and re‐used repeatedly.

Interactions between packs were aggressive and appeared to function in spacing the packs. The result of an encounter depended upon pack size with larger packs dominating smaller ones; the area of occurrence did not appear to affect the outcome. Mating between packs was observed during aggressive encounters.

Group life is of adaptive significance in protecting the individual from predators and in care of the young. The pack bunches around young mongooses when disturbed and also bunches to attack certain predators and competitors. One or more adults remain at the den to guard the young when the pack forages.
A technique for the capture of the warthog, Phacochoerus aethiopicus Pallas
Authors: CUMMING D. H. M.
Published: April 2008

Warthog were captured at holes in which they sleep at night, using a tunnel shaped net which was set at the entrance to occupied holes at dawn. Construction of the net and the manner in which it was set are described. The results of 125 successful captures involving 426 warthog are presented. Percentage of successful capture days was 72%, success per hole attempted was 68% with a mean (± one S.D.) of 3–4±2‐0 warthog captured per hole. The largest single catch was of eleven warthog. Mortality due to capture was 1–2%. Times at which holes were blocked, times spent waiting for warthog to emerge and times taken to handle catches are also presented. The method proved to be safe and no injuries were incurred by members of the catching team which usually comprised twelve to fifteen men. The technique was used primarily to mark animals for later identification but was also used successfully as a management tool. No tranquillizing or immobilizing drugs were used on captured animals. Alternative techniques for catching warthog are discussed briefly.
Seasonal changes in reproduction, diet and body composition of two equatorial rodents
Authors: FIELD ALISON C.
Published: April 2008

The stomach contents of Lemniscomys striatus and Praomys (Mastomys) natalensis, caught in the Rwenzori National Park over a period of one year (1965‐66), were analysed. In Lemniscomys the percentage by weight of insects (mainly termites) in the stomachs increased during the wet seasons, while termites were consumed by Praomys throughout the year. Qualitative analysis showed that the fruits of the woody shrub Erythrococcus formed an important part of the diet of Praomys during the rains. Both species ate grass leaves and stems in varying amounts throughout the year and both utilized seeds of legumes and other herbs towards the end of the wet seasons.

In both Lemniscomys and Praomys collected between January and June 1972 liver and total body fat levels appeared to be related to rainfall and to reproductive state. There was a peak in fat levels during the high rainfall period in April. Pregnant and lactating females were caught mostly in May and June towards the end of the wet season; they had higher fat levels than males caught in the same period, but lower fat levels than non‐breeding mature or immature females and males caught in April.

The possible significance of seasonal changes in diet and in body composition in the timing and duration of the breeding season is discussed.
Monthly variations in feeding and activity patterns of the mangabey, Cercocebus albigena (Lydekker)
Authors: WASER PETER
Published: April 2008

Ranging patterns, feeding activity, and time budgets of a group of gray‐cheeked mangabeys in the Kibale Forest, western Uganda, were studied in May‐June 1971 and from March 1972 to April 1973. Locations and activities of individuals in a fifteen‐member group of this arboreal primate were systematically recorded at half‐hourly intervals during continuous following of the group. Phenological data were concurrently collected for eleven species of intensively used trees. Mangabeys are primarily frugivores, although leaves and flowers of some species are eaten and substantial time was devoted to insect foraging.

Although a typical twice‐yearly alternation of wet and dry periods exists in this forest, strongly seasonal trends are the exception in the following aspects of mangabey behaviour: (1) extent and location of areas used, (2) distance moved daily, (3) percentage of time spent feeding or moving, (4) percentage of time spent feeding on different food types. An explanation may be provided by the phenological data, which indicate that many species of tree used by mangabeys fruit either asynchronously and nonseasonally or synchronously but at very long and possibly irregular intervals. Thus mangabeys are faced with foods which fluctuate widely in availability, particularly within a small area, but which are not seasonal in their fluctuations.
Water availability and its influence on the structure and dynamics of a savannah large mammal community
Authors: WESTERN DAVID
Published: April 2008

The Amboseli ecosystem is in a semi‐arid savannah environment in which water availability is highly seasonal, a feature which has an important bearing on the structure and efficiency of the large mammal community.

Data are presented to show that the seasonal movements, a wet season dispersal and dry season concentration of water‐dependent species (obligate drinkers) can be related to the seasonality of rainfall and water availability, but that similar patterns do not prevail in the water‐independent species.

Evidence suggests that water availability is a crucial parameter in calculating the carrying capacity of a range, and that the duration of ephemeral supplies, which reflect rainfall seasonality, evapotranspiration, and soil water storage capacity, is equally important. A simplified model is presented which calculates the carrying capacity of water‐bound communities–taking into account these two limiting factors.

There appears to be a physiological barrier to a heavy utilization of the low water content grasses beyond reach of the water‐dependent species, since most water‐independent species select high water content browse in order to maintain a positive water balance. Significantly, while the water‐independent community is almost exclusively composed of browsers, most water‐dependent species are grazers. The biomass density of large mammals beyond 15 km from water, a radius which encloses 99‐5% of the biomass of water‐dependent species, is extremely low compared to areas within 10 km of water.

As a consequence of the physiological barrier to a heavy utilization of low water content forage in water‐deficient areas, the food chain efficiencies are appreciably lower than those with permanent water sources. Livestock development programmes have long appreciated this constraint and employed water development schemes to increase range‐carrying capacity.

Seasonality in the movement patterns of Amboseli is compared to other large mammal communities and management implications are discussed.
The patterns of rainfall in the Serengeti Ecosystem, Tanzania
Authors: NORTON‐GRIFFITHS M. , HERLOCKER D. , PENNYCUICK LINDA
Published: April 2008

This paper presents a description of the temporal and spatial distribution of rainfall within the Serengeti Ecosystem, Tanzania. Ecosystem and Regional patterns are discussed with respect to synoptic processes, vegetation zonation, phases of primary production and the distribution and migrations of large mammals.
The elephant problem–an alternative hypothesis
Authors: CAUGHLEY GRAEME
Published: April 2008

Published hypotheses to account for habitat changes wrought by elephants begin from the assumption that elephant‐forest systems possess a stable equilibrium point. The ‘elephant problem’ is conceived as a displacement of this equilibrium by man. Controversy centres around which human activities caused the dislocation of equilibrium and by which mechanisms these activities resulted in local high densities of the elephant Loxodonta africana. A study on elephant‐forest relationships in the Luangwa Valley of Zambia casts doubt upon the basic assumption of these hypotheses and an alternative hypothesis is therefore offered. It begins from the opposite assumption–that there is no attainable natural equilibrium between elephants and forests in eastern and southern Africa. The relationship is viewed instead as a stable limit cycle in which elephants increase while thinning the forest and decline until reaching a low density that allows resurgence of the forest. This in turn triggers an increase of elephants and the cycle repeats. The period of the cycle, if the hypothesis is correct, is in the order of 200 years in the Luangwa Valley.

The activities of man can impose an artificial equilibrium on the system such that trees and elephants are trapped at the low density phase of the cycle. When interference is relaxed, as with the conversion of an area to a national park, the cyclic relationship reasserts.

The parameters of a system possessing a stable limit cycle need not differ in kind or interrelationship from those of a system with a stable equilibrium. Whether one or other outcome manifests may depend only on the numerical values of the parameters. If the elephant‐forest system is characterized by a stable limit cycle the period and amplitude should change along a climatic gradient and may contract to a stable equilibrium in some climatic zones. A set of predictions is offered to facilitate rejection of the hypothesis.
The role of termites in the removal of elephant dung in the Tsavo (East) National Park Kenya
Authors: COE MALCOLM
Published: April 2008

It has been noted that during the dry season the activity of coprophagous beetles on elephant dung decreases as that of termites increases. The action of termites on seventy plots provided with fresh (wet) dung, dry dung, water, dung liquid and con trols was investigated over a period of 38 days in August‐September 1973. The rate at which termites attack dung is shown to differ significantly from other treatments. It is calculated that all the dung deposited during the period of the study can potentially be removed in 85 days. Measurements of termite foraging activity on the surface of the ground concludes that galleries (<5 days old) cover 0.96% of the surface.
Haematozoa of East African birds: II. Redescription of Haemoproteus centropi, a parasite of the Cuculidae
Authors: PEIRCE M. A.
Published: April 2008

The avian haemoproteid, Haemoproteus centropi de Mello, a blood parasite found in members of the family Cuculidae, is redescribed from Clamator jacobinus Boddaert from Ngulia in Kenya. Haemoproteus froilanoi Tendeiro is considered to be a synonym of H. centropi. The reasons for this are discussed.
Changes in tree populations of Tsavo East National Park, Kenya*
Authors: LEUTHOLD WALTER
Published: April 2008

To assess distribution, density and population trends under the impact of elephants and other browsing herbivores, trees of four common species were counted in belt transects along existing roads in Tsavo East National Park in 1970 and 1974. In three of the four species, mature and recruitment‐age trees declined substantially during this period. The reduction can be attributed almost entirely to utilization by elephants. The fourth species showed a slight increase in mature and recruitment‐age trees; significantly, it is not eaten by elephants. A high regeneration potential (trees <1 m high) still exists, even in the worst‐affected species. However, most of the young in dividuals do not reach recruitment age due to the heavy browsing to which they are subjected. Whether the recent reduction of the elephant population has been sufficient to reverse this trend, remains to be seen; much depends on rainfall, too, which was below average during the period considered.
A mass capture technique for lions
Authors: SMUTS G. L. , WHYTE I. J. , DEARLOVE T. W.
Published: April 2008

During a 13 month survey over 600 lions were lured to capture sites and of these 488 were captured and 409 marked in 158 effort nights (two teams worked for 79 nights). Lions were captured in 96 effort nights out of the 158. Groups of up to 16 were captured per effort night with 80% of all observed lions captured. Seasonal capture rates indicated that there was an inverse relationship between rainfall and capture success, the greatest success being recorded during the dry season. Lions were lured to a game carcass with tape recordings of lions and spotted hyaena calls, and scent trails. All lions were darted at night from the back of a parked vehicle. Record ings were audible to 7 km, the effective luring range with regard to lions being about 4 km. Lions and hyaenas also responded to the sounds in the absence of a carcass or scent trails and approached the sound at a brisk walk. Playing roars often caused lions to move away. Recordings used in conjunction with a carcass and scent trails reduced the time lions took to arrive by a factor of 2.7 when compared to using only a carcass and scent trails. Eighty‐three per cent of the darted lions remained within 10 m of the carcass. Both sexes and all age classes except cubs under about 1 month were captured by the technique. The mortality rate was 0.82%.
Activity patterns of rodents in Rwenzori National Park, Uganda
Authors: CHEESEMAN C. L.
Published: April 2008

The activity patterns of eight species of grassland rodents, all belonging to the family Muridae, were studied in the laboratory using an automatic monitoring cage. Details of the layout and construction of the cage are given. This simple apparatus provided a reliable indication of daily rhythms of activity for the various species. All the species investigated were either nocturnal or crepuscular in their habits. The information on activity is combined with knowledge of the rodents' food and habitat preferences to provide an insight into the ways in which these animals exploit their habitat.

Pendant les années 1971‐72, on a examin é les contenus des rumens de 22 cobes de montagne de Chanler (Redunca fulvorufula chanleri Rothschild) captivés dans le Ranch d'Arthur Cole prts de Gilgil, Kenya. Les monocotyl édons se produisaient d'une fréquence en moyenne de 99.5% des fragments identifiables. La fréquence des monocotylédons dans la couche végétale représentait une moyenne de 94% dans les régions ou les cobes de montagne ont été captivés. Des 11 herbes (7 à espece, 4 à genre) considérés sûrement identifiables, trois (Themeda triandra, Hyparrhenia spp., et Cymbopogon pospischilii) étaient pâturés plus souvent que ne l'indiquait leur répartition dans la végétation, six (Aristida spp., Cynodon spp., Eragrostis spp., Harpachne schimperi, Microchloa kunthii, et Tragus berteronianus) moins souvent, et deux (Bothriochloa insculpta et Enneapogon schimperanus) avec une proportion approximate‐ment égale à leur répartition dans la couche de végétation.
Splenic weights and their possible relationship to adrenocortical function in a wild population of Rousettus aegyptiacus E. Geoffroy
Authors: BARANGA JONATHAN
Published: April 2008

The spleen weights increase with age in Rousettus aegyptiacus for the first 6 months. The size of the adrenal cortex estimated by adrenal weight behaves in a similar way as the spleen weights. The spleen weights decline as the bats mature while the adrenal weights continue to increase with age.

Both the spleen and adrenal weights are variable in pregnant bats. The pregnant animals have heavy adrenals and small spleens on average. Since the pregnant bats are heavy, their relative spleen and adrenal weights are different from the absolute weights, but more so in the latter than in the former.

The spleen in Rousettus responds to stressful environments differently from the way it does in rodents under similar situations.
Population structure and seasonal fluctuations of the Falconiformes in Uganda National Parks
Authors: THIOLLAY J. M.
Published: April 2008

The population structure and seasonal fluctuations of the Falconiformes were studied in three national parks in Uganda. Fifty to fifty‐eight species of Falconiformes were recorded in every park, thirty‐three to thirty‐six of them being regular and common. Compared to man‐modified habitats, the natural savannas of Ugandan national parks, with enormous populations of large mammals, have a relatively high density of vultures and eagles.

La structure des populations et les fluctuations saisonnières des Falconiformes ont été etudiées dans trois Parcs Nationaux en Ouganda. Dans chaque Parc, de cinquante à cinquante‐huit espèces de Falconiformes ont été enregistrées; parmi celles‐ci, de trente‐trois à trente‐six espèces sont régulières et communes. En comparaison des habitats modifiés par l'homme, les savanes naturelles des Parc Nationaux ougandais, avec leurs énormes popuIations de grands mammifères, ont une densité relativement élevée de vautours et d'aigles.
Social biology of bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus Pallas 1776) in the Nairobi National Park, Kenya
Authors: ALLSOPP R.
Published: April 2008

A study to investigate some aspects of the social biology of bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus Pallas 1776) was carried out in a 2.59 km2 study area in the Nairobi National Park, Kenya.

Observations throughout 1966 using binoculars and photography identified thirty‐one male and thirty‐three female bushbuck. Together with an estimated fourteen juveniles, the density in the study area was 30.1/km2.

Distribution is aggregated with loose family groups concentrating around forest edge areas near to dams or river pools. Home ranges varied from 20 ha for sub‐adult males to 5 ha for adult males and 2.5 ha for females.

Bushbuck are predominantly solitary with 53.7% of all sightings being of lone animals; 14% of associations were of an adult female with a single calf and the commonest adult association (8%) was a single male with a single female. There is a strong mother‐young relationship. Very young calves lie in concealment away from the mother during the early days of their lives.

Agonistic encounters between males vary in intensity from play fighting in sub‐adults to lateral intimidation display and overt conflict. The presence of a female, assumed to be in oestrous, sometimes stimulates males to intense aggression and at such times, a single male forms and defends a mating association with the female. Territorial defence was not observed.

Bushbuck often associate with other species, particularly impala and baboons. They show a negative reaction to tick‐birds which may be one reason for their often having heavy infestations of ticks and flies.

Predator avoidance relies largely on crypsis and ‘freezing’ followed by rapid flight through dense vegetation.

Une étude pour approfondir quelques aspects de la biologie sociale du Guib harnaché (Tragelaphus scriptus Pallas 1776) fut entreprise sur une surface de recherche de 2.59 km2 au Parc National de Nairobi, Kenya.

Tout au long de 1966, des observations faites aux jumelles et par photographies, ont permis d'identifier 31 mâles et 33 femelles de Guib. Avec une estimation de 14 juvéniles, la densité dans la zone d'étude est de 30.1/km2.
Mapping the structure and the marking system of a territory of the Thornson's gazelle*
Authors: WALTHER F. R.
Published: April 2008

A tommy territory (about 8000 m2) was mapped in the Serengeti National Park (Tanzania). The techniques and principle guidelines for mapping the marking system are described. Several animal trails crossed the territory, but were not established by its owner. The male had several preferred bedding sites in the centre and in the boundary region of the territory. Eighteen dung piles and 110 preorbital gland secretion marks were recorded. One dung pile was in the centre, the others occurred along the boundary, most abundantly in sections of frequent agonistic encounters. The secretion marks generally followed the same pattern as the dung piles, but they formed a broader belt along the boundary, leaving a central area unmarked. Factors which may influence the position of dung piles and secretion marks are discussed. Landmarks can be incorporated in the establishment of the centre and boundary of a territory, but its basic structure is subjectively determined by the territorial in dividual. The marking system does not seem to be a means of ‘territorial defence’ in this species, but appears to be important primarily for the owner's orientation.

Un territoire de Gazelle de Thomson, d'environ 8000 m2, fut cartographié dans le Parc National du Serengeti en Tanzanie. Les techniques et principes conducteurs pour la cartographié du système de marquage sont décrits. Plusieurs pistes d'animaux traversent le territoire, mais ne furent pas tracées par le possesseur de celui‐ci. Le mâle a plusieurs sites de repos préférentiels au centre et dam la zone limitrophe du territoire. Dix‐huit points de défécation et 110 marquages de sécrétion de la glande pré‐orbitale furent enregistrés. Un point de défécation est au centre, les autres se trouvent le long de la limite, plus abondants dans les zones où se produisent des rencontres antagonistes fréquentes. Les marquages de sécrétion suivent généralement le même répartition que les points de défécation, mais elles forment une bande plus large le long de la limite, laissant une surface centrale non marquée. Les facteurs qui pour‐raient influencer la position des points de défécation et les marquages de sécrétion sont discutés. Des points de repère peuvent être incorporés dans l‘éstablissement du centre et de la limite du territoire, mais leur structure de base est déterminée sub‐jectivement par l'individu territorial. Le systéme de marquage ne semble pas être un moyen de “défense territoriale” chez cette espèce, mais parait être fondamentalement important pour l'orientation du possesseur de ce territoire.
Competition and niche separation in a high altitude herbivore community in Ethiopia
Authors: DUNBAR R. I. M.
Published: April 2008

Seven species of herbivores (a primate, four ungulates and two domesticated species) which formed a semi‐natural community were studied in a montane heath habitat in northern Ethiopia. All species were found to have increased in numbers over a 3‐year period, so that no species could be said to be suffering from ecological competition in the strict sense. Several of the species were in the process of re‐establishing themselves following periods of absence or reduced density, so that competition at present is more likely to be incipient rather than actual. Analyses of each species' gross dietary profile and its use of the habitat suggested a clear differentiation into two groups, graminivores and true herbivores, with ecological overlap between species in the same category being minimized by differential habitat use. The data were used to test the prediction that greater levels of dietary overlap would be possible in the more diverse sections of the habitat: the results were equivocal, possibly due to the low densities of many of the species. Some evidence was found to support the hypothesis that there would be a reduction in dietary overlap during the dry season when food resources were in short supply. However, the extent to which this actually occurred seemed to depend on the levels of overlap when food was plentiful: the reverse might in fact be the case for pairs of species whose diets normally overlapped little, for these often seemed able to tolerate greater overlap in diet during critical periods.

Sept espèces des herbivores (un primat, quatre ongulés et deux espèces approvoisèes) qui constituent une communité semi‐naturelle sont étudiées dans la bruyère monta‐gneuse à l'Ethiopie. Toutes les espèces s'ont augmentées pendant une durée de trois ans: ainsi, les espèces ne se font pas concurrence (dans le sens strict du mot). Puisque quelques des espèces se rétablissaient suivant une période d'absence, c'est probable que la concurrence écologique est naissante plutot qu'actuelle. On a fait l'analyses des régimes alimentaires et des usages du habitat par les espèces. Ces analyses partagent deux groupes alimentaires, avec des autres différences en les usages du terrain parmi les espèces de chaque groupe. Les données sont usées de éprouver l'hypothèse que les nourritures des espèces seraient plus pareilles dans les habitats des végétations plus variées. Les résultats sont ambigus à cause des densités peu élevées de certaines espéces. Il y a évidence pour I'hypothCse que les nourritures seraient moins sem‐blables pendant la saison séche quand les vivres sont rares. Néanmoins, c'était vrai seulement pour ces espCces de qui les régimes alimentaires étaient pareilles au cours de la saison pluvieuse. Au contraire, les espèces de qui les régimes n'étaient pas pareilles à ce temps peuvent de tolerer la similarité augmentée au cours des ptriodes plus difficiles.
Size, life history and ecology in mammals
Authors: WESTERN D.
Published: April 2008

Allometric laws which scale numerous biomechanical and physiological processes to size in mammals have long been recognized and widely used in biology. There is now sufficient evidence to suggest that those life history parameters such as growth and maximum rates of reproduction, which depend in part on metabolic rate, are also scaled to size. Data are presented which, coupled with a literature review, show that gestation time, growth rates, age at first reproduction, lifespan, the intrinsic rate of natural increase, birth rate, net reproductive rate and litter weight are allometrically scaled to size and are, in consequence, inter‐related. The exponents of the scaling functions are similar in all mammalian orders but in some taxa such as the primates, the species grow slower, live longer and reproduce at a lower rate. For these taxa the differences in life history parameters can be explained by differences in brain size and an existing hypothesis that the maximum rate of neural tissue growth constrains the maximum rate of growth and development of the entire organism.

It is then argued that because size scales the main life history parameters of mammals it should also be a central theme in ecology from the individual to the community level of organisation. Examples are presented to show that size is ubiquitous in ecology and accounts for most of the variation in life history parameters between species. Size scaling offers a method of reducing species of varying size to similar dimensions of time, space and rates of action. It is therefore fundamental in distinguishing those life history parameters which arise as a consequence of size, the first order strategies, from those that vary between populations and according to environmental circumstances, the second order strategies. From this approach should develop a broader biological synthesis in which genetic and physiological determinants will inevitably feature more centrally than they do in ecological and behavioural theory.

Les lois allométriques unissant les processus biomécaniques et physiologiques avec la taille chez les mammifères ont été reconnues depuis longtemps et largement utilisées en biologic Il y a maintenant assez de certitude pour suggérer que les paramètres biologiques tels que croissance et taux maximal de reproduction, qui dépendent partiellement du rendement métabolique, sont aussi fonctions de la taille. Les données présentées ici, couplées avec une revue de la littérature, montrent que la durée de gestation, le taux de croissance, l'âge à la première reproduction, la durée de vie, le taux intrinsèque d'accroissement naturel, le taux de natalité, le taux de reproduction net et le poids de la portée sont en relation allométrique avec la taille et, par conséquent, sont en interrelation.
Energetics, thermoregulation and the behavioural ecology of klipspringer
Authors: DUNBAR R. I. M.
Published: April 2008

The activity budgets of klipspringer (Oreotrugus oreotragus) in different habitats in Ethiopia at different seasons are compared in order to test predictions generated by the theoretical relationships between ambient temperature and the energetic costs of maintaining metabolic functions. The predictions were in all cases fulfilled. Diurnal patterns in the use of cover and shade are examined and found to depend on local temperature conditions as determined by the countervailing effects of wind‐chill and incident sunshine. The populations differed in their seasonal dietary profiles in ways that were consistent with habitat differences in food resources. Food availability was found to be the more important influence on the reproductive rate of females. It is suggested that in habitats where dry season food supplies are poor relative to the animals' needs, they may attempt to minimize energy expenditure by reducing time spent feeding and utilizing stored fat reserves at the expense of a reduced reproductive rate.

Les budgets d'activité du klipspringer (Oreotragus oreotrugus) dans différents habitats en Ethiopie à différentes saisons, sont comparés en vue de tester les prédictions géné‐rées par les relations théoriques entre la température ambiante et les coats énergétiques de maintien des fonctions métaboliques. Dans tous les cas, les prédictions furent satisfaisantes. Les modes diurnes d'utilisation d'abris et d'ombre sont examinés et semblent dépendre des conditions locales de température telles qu'elles sont déter‐minées par les effets composés du vent et du soleil. Les populations diffèrent par leurs profils diététiques saisonniers en ce sens qu'elles s'adaptent aux différences d'habitats en resources alimentaires.

La disponibilité de nourriture constitue l'influence la plus importante sur le taux de reproduction des femelles. I1 est suggéré que dans les habitats où les resources alimentaires en saison sèche sont insuffisantes pur les besoins des animaux, ceux‐ci sont capables de diminuer leur dépense d'énergie en réduisant le temps passé A manger et en utilisant les réserves de graisses pour la dépense d'un taux de reproduction réduit.
Communal denning and clan associations in brown hyenas (Hyaena brunnea, Thunberg) of the central Kalahari Desert
Authors: OWENS DELIA D. , OWENS M. J.
Published: April 2008

The brown hyena clan under study utilizes one major den in which all cubs except the newborn are raised together.

All females, including those without cubs, participate in raising the young by bringing food to the den.

Females suckle cubs 10 months of age and possibly older and also suckle cubs other than their own.

Social greeting, grooming, play, and other interactions are exhibited at the den between sibling and non‐sibling cubs, and between cubs, subadults, and adults.

The advantages of communal denning in brown hyenas are discussed.

Le clan d'hyènes brunes étudié utilise une tanière principale dans laquelle tous les jeunes sont élevés ensemble sauf les nouveaux‐nés.

Toutes les femelles, y compris celles sans jeunes, participent à l'élevage des jeunes en apportant de la nourriture à la tanière.

Les femelles allaitent les jeunes jusqu'à dix mois et peut‐être plus; elles allaitent aussi d'autres jeunes que les leurs.

Les salutations sociales, la toilette, le jeu et d'autres interactions sont exécutées à la tanière entre des jeunes apparentés ou non, et entre jeunes, subadultes et adultes.

Les avantages d'une tanière communautaire chez l'hybne brune sont discutés.
Ecology of lions in Nairobi National Park and the adjoining Kitengela Conservation Unit in Kenya
Authors: RUDNAI JUDITH
Published: April 2008

The importance of the Kitengela Conservation Unit adjoining Nairobi National Park is examined in relation to the Park lion population. The habitat and the herbivore and predator populations are described in both areas.

In the KCU there is no evidence of a sizeable resident lion population, it serves as a dispersal area for the NNP surplus and as a hunting reservoir in time of game scarcity in the Park. During the 1974‐75 study this was an important factor as game numbers in the Park were low after the 1973–74 drought.

Lion predation on both wild and domestic herbivores outside the Park is discussed and the 1974–75 record compared with those of previous years. Factors underlying population stability and high reproductive rate in the NNP lion are examined. Access to the KCU is one of the important factors. Conflicting interests of the Park and the pastoral and ranching communities surrounding it are analysed and some solutions proposed.

L'importance de 1'Unité de Conservation de Kitengela (KCU) bordant le Parc National de Nairobi (NNP) est examinée en relation avec la population de lions du Parc. L'habitat et les populations d'herbivores et de prédateurs sont décrits dans les deux zones.

Dans le KCU, il ne semble pas y avoir de population résidente de lions d'une certaine importance; il sert de zone de dispersion pour le surplus du NNP et de réservoir de chasse dans les périodes de pénurie de gibier dans le Parc. Durant l'étude de 1974–75, le KCU fut un important facteur lorsqu'il y avait très peu de gibier dans le Parc après le sécheresse de 1973–74.

La prédation léonine sur les herbivores sauvages et domestiques à l'extérieur du Parc est discutée et les données de 1974–75 sont comparées à celles des années précédentes. Les facteurs régissant une stabilité de population et un taux de reproduction élevé chez les lions du NNP sont examinés. L'accés au KCU est un des facteurs importants. Les intérêts contradictoires du Parc et des communautés de pasteurs et de fermiers avoisinantes sont analysés et quelques solutions sont proposées.
Notes on the warble fly of the Grant's gazelle
Authors: SPINAGE C. A.
Published: April 2008

Observations are presented on the life cycle of the warble fly Przhevalskiana silenus (Brauer) (pace Zumpt) of the Grant's gazelle Gazella granti Brooke, in northern Tanzania, East Africa. The larvae pupated in November, and first instar larvae were found under the host's skin in February. Attempts to rear imagines from larvae were unsuccessful. Only one pupa formed, and this failed to metamorphose. The first instar larva and the pupa are described for the first time.

Des observations sur le cycle vital de la mouche piqueuse, Przhevalskiana silenus (Brauer) (pace Zumpt), de la gazelle de Grant Gazella granti Brooke en Tanzanie du nord sont présentées.

La pupaison des larves a lieu en novembre et les premiers stades larvaires ont été trouvés sous la peau de l'hôte en février. Des tentatives pour obtenir des imagos à partir de larves furent infructueuses. Une pupe seulement fut formée mais celle‐ci manqua sa métamorphose.

Le premier stade larvaire et la pupe sont décrits pour la premiére fois.
Differences in the diets of male and female red kangaroos in central Australia
Authors: NEWSOME A. E.
Published: April 2008

Males of the red kangaroo (Megalela rufa) are larger than females and have a higher mortality rate in central Australia. The possibility that diets also differed was examined. Though both sexes ate predominantly grass and little browse, there were significant differences in the amounts of forbs eaten during summer and winter droughts. Sexual dimorphism in size is common among herbivores in Africa, North America and Australia and therefore may be associated not only with sexual success, but also with higher carrying capacities for the species.

Les mâes de kangourou rouge (Megalela rufa) sont plus grands que les femelles et ont un taux de mortalité supérieur en Australie centrale. La possibilité que les régimes alimentaires soient aussi différents est aussi examinée. Bien que les deux sexes mangent surtout des graminées et peu de feuilles, il existe des différences significatives dans les quantités d'herbages mangés durant les sécheresses d'été et d'hiver. Le dimorphisme sexuel dans la taille est courant parmi les herbivores en Afrique, Amérique du Nord et Australie et peut être dès lors associé non seulement avec l'attrait sexuel, mais aussi avec la plus haute charge pastorale pour l'espèce.
Comparison of the behaviour and ecology of red colobus and redtail monkeys in the Kibale Forest, Uganda
Authors: STRUHSAKER T. T.
Published: April 2008

The red colobus and redtail monkeys are the two most common primates in the Kibale Forest, yet they show pronounced differences in most aspects of their behaviour and ecology. The red colobus live in large multi‐male social groups with home ranges that completely overlap with those of other conspecific social groups. The redtails live in medium‐sized, one‐male social groups and actively defend territories against other conspecific social groups. Red colobus feed primarily on young plant growth, especially buds, flowers, and young leaves. In contrast, redtails feed heavily on fruits and arthropods. Comparisons are made of inter‐individual spacing, adult male interactions, mating systems, grooming, social relations of neonates, inter‐group relations and diet, time budgets, vertical stratification, ranging, biomass, density and yield. It is suggested that differences in the density, dispersion patterns and renewal rates of the divergent classes of food account for much of the contrast in life styles of these two monkey species.

Le colobe bai et la cercopithèque ascagne sont les deux primates les plus communs de la forêt de Kibale, bien qu'ils présentent des différences prononcées dans la plupart des aspects de leur comportement et de leur écologie. Le colobe bai vit en grands groupes sociaux à plusieurs mâles dont les domaines vitaux recouvrent complètement ceux d'autres groupes conspécifiques. Les cercopithèques ascagnes vivent en groupes sociaux moyens à mâle unique et défendent activement leur territoire contre les autres groupes sociaux conspécifiques. Les colobes bais se nourrissent principalement de jeunes pousses, spécialement des bourgeons, des fleurs et de jeunes feuilles. Les cercopithèques, eux, mangent essentiellement des fruits et des arthropodes. On compare les distances entre individus, les interactions des mâles adultes, les processus d'accouplement, de toilette, les relations sociales des nouveaux‐nés, les relations entre les groupes ainsi que les régimes alimentaires, les actogrammes, la stratification verticale, la dispersion, la densité et la production de biomasse. On suggère que les différences de fréquence, de mode de distribution et de taux de renouvellement des diverses sources de nourriture entrent en ligne de compte pour une bonne part du contraste dans les modes de vie de ces deux espèces.
Observations on two rare and endangered populations of red colobus monkeys in East Africa: Colobus badius gordonorum and Colobus badius kirkii
Authors: STRUHSAKER T. T. , LELAND LYSA
Published: April 2008

Ecological and behavioural observations on two rare and endangered red colobus subspecies, Colobus badius gordonorum and C.b. kirkii, made during brief surveys in 1977, are summarized. Information is given on physical appearance, food habits, social group size and composition, social behaviour and reproduction, vocalizations, associations with other primate species and conservation status. On the basis of coat colour, facial pattern and vocalizations, it is concluded that gordonorum and kirkii are more closely related to one another than previously thought by many authorities. Both of the red colobus populations surveyed are severely threatened by habitat destruction. Unless immediate protection is afforded these areas, these populations have little chance of surviving.

Des observations écologiques et éthologiques sur deux sous‐espéces rares et menacées de colobes bai, Colobus badius gordonorum et C.b. kirkii, ont été faites durant de courtes visites en 1977. L'apparence physique, le régime alimentaire, la taille et la composition des groupements sociaux, le comportement social et la reproduction, les vocalisations, les associations avec d'autres espéces de primates et le statut de conservation sont décrits. Sur la base de la couleur du pelage, les caractéristiques faciales et les vocalisations, il semble que C.b. gordonorum et C.b. kirkii s'apparentent davantage à une autre sous‐espèce que celle à laquelle pensaient de nombreux spécialistes. Les deux populations de colobes bai sont sévérement menacées par la destruction de leur habitat. A moins qu'une protection immédiate soit mise en application dans ces régions, ces populations ont peu de chance de survivre.
The decline of the baobab tree in Ruaha National Park, Tanzania
Authors: BARNES R. F. W.
Published: April 2008

This study confirms that elephants, which eat baobab trees, are causing a decline in the baobab population in the Msembe area of Ruaha National Park. In 1 year elephants killed 3% of the baobab trees. The age distribution indicates that there had been a drop in recruitment during the last 25 years, probably due to the increase in elephant density. Assuming no further regeneration and no change in elephant density, the baobab population may be eliminated in 30–170 years, depending upon the mortality pattern caused by elephants.

RÉSUMEÉ

Cette étude confirme que les élephants, qui de nourissent de baobabs, causent le déclin de la population de baobabs dans la zone de Msembe au Pare National Ruaha. En 1 an, les éléphants ont supprime 3% des baobabs. La distribution d'ǎge indique qu'il y a eu une chute dans le renouvellement durant les 25 dernières années, due probablement à l'augmentation de la densité de population d'eléphants. En supposant qu'il n'y ait ni regéneration, ni changement de densité de population d'éléphants, Fensemble des baobabs peut ětre éliminè d'ici 30 à 170 ans, selon le taux de mortalité causé par les éléphants.
Helminth parasites of captive animals
Authors: BAMIDELE O. , OGUNRINADE A. F.
Published: April 2008

Helminthic parasites were investigated following the death of some stock animals and restocking. Helminth ova detected were Ancylostoma, Bunostomum, Trichuris, Strongyloides, Echinococcus and an unidentified cestode.

The danger of continuous use of the same pens is highlighted and the possibility of the presence of a domestic life cycle of hydatidosis in the Zoo is raised.

RÉSUMEÉ

Les parasites helminthes furent étudiés a la suite de la mort de certains animaux. Furent détéctes les oeufs des Helminthes suivants: Ankylostoma, Bunostomum, Trichuris, Strongyloides, Echinococcus et un cestode non identifié. Le danger d'utilider continuellement les měmes enclos est mis en évidence et Ton avance le possibilité d'un cycle biologique domestique d'hydatidose dans le zoo.
The quaternary history of African forests: its relevance to conservation
Authors: HAMILTON A. C.
Published: April 2008

The distributions of forest species in tropical Africa have partly been determined by Quaternary climatic change. Forest was restricted to a number of relatively small refugia during a pre‐12,000 B.P. arid phase. A great increase in forest since that time has resulted in gradients of decreasing species diversity away from former refuge areas. From the point of view of species conservation, it is particularly important to conserve forests lying within those areas which retained a forest cover during the pre‐12,000 B.P. arid period.

La distribution des espèces forestières en a été partiellement déterminée par le changement climatique de 1′ére quaternaire. La forêt a été restreinte à un nombre relativement faible de refuges durant la phase aride antérieure à 12000 B.P. L'importante augmentation de la forêt depuis cette époque s'est traduit en des gradients de diversité décroissante d'espèces quittant les zones de refuge antérieures. D'un point de vue de conservation des espèces, il est particulièrement important de conserver les forê situèes dans ces régions qui ont abrité une couverture forestière durant la période aride antérieure à 12000 B.P.