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Coordinates: 6°20′N 9°00′E / 6.333°N 9.000°E / 6.333; 9.000
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{{Short description|Protected area in southern Nigeria}}
{{Short description|Protected area in southern Nigeria}}

== Introduction ==
[[File:Water course, Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary, Cross River State.jpg|thumb|200px|Waterfall in Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary]]
[[File:Water course, Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary, Cross River State.jpg|thumb|200px|Waterfall in Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary]]
Wildlife sanctuaries play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity and represent significant ecotourism potential, making them prominent sites for effective management and conservation efforts<ref>Thomas, L. and Middle, J. (2003). Guidelines for the management planning of protected Areas. IUCN Gland, Switzerland and Cambridge, UK <nowiki>https://portals.iucn.org/library/efiles/edocs/PAG-010.pdf</nowiki></ref><ref>Yager, G.O., Alarape, A. and Bunza, M.S. (2017). Evaluation of range condition and trend of Ikwe Forest Reserve Igbor, Gwer-East Local Government Areas of Benue State, Nigeria. Asian Journal of Environmental and Ecology 3.3: 1-11</ref>. These sanctuaries provide a habitat for a majority of the remaining flora and fauna species, particularly mammalian herbivores. However, human activities are causing increasing degradation of wildlife sanctuaries. Anthropogenic activities like game exploitation, logging, farming, and urbanization in the vicinity of protected areas pose significant challenges to wildlife conservation, particularly in West Africa<ref>Meduna, A. J., Ogunjinmi, A. A. and Onadeko, S. A. (2009). Biodiversity conservation problems and their implications on ecotourism in Kainji Lake National Park, Nigeria. Journal of Sustainable Development in Africa, 10(4), 59-73</ref><ref>Oladipo, E.O. (2001). International initiative on Biodiversity Conservation since 1992. In Poopola, L. and Oluwanna S.A. Ed. Biodiversity Rainforest Ecosystem in Nigeria. FEPA-UNAAB linkage Center for forest Conservation Biodiversity. University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Abeokuta 23-32.</ref>. Consequently, numerous species have become rare, and their population numbers and habitats have seen significant declines in the past century<ref>Onadeko, S. A. (2004). Home of the range crises, consequence and solution, UNAAB Inaugural lecture series no 17. University of Agriculture Abeokuta. Pp 86.</ref>. Human activities, both legal and illegal, can lead to the extinction of fauna species, particularly mammalian herbivores, and the loss of herbivores can disrupt ecosystems, often negatively affecting other species and ecosystem services<ref>Ripple, W.J. Newsome T.M. Wolf, C. Dirzo, R. Everatt, K. T. Galetti, M. Hayward, M. W. Kerley, G.I Levi, T. and Lindsey, P.A (2015). Collapse of the world largest herbivores. Science Advance 1:4: e1400103</ref>. Both the environment and anthropogenic effects pose threats to the populations of large and small mammals. Human activities, especially illegal ones, have disrupted the ecological balance in protected areas, affecting various fauna species within these ecosystems<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Western |first=David |last2=Russell |first2=Samantha |last3=Cuthill |first3=Innes |date=2009-07-08 |title=The Status of Wildlife in Protected Areas Compared to Non-Protected Areas of Kenya |url=https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0006140 |journal=PLOS ONE |language=en |volume=4 |issue=7 |pages=e6140 |doi=10.1371/journal.pone.0006140 |issn=1932-6203 |pmc=PMC2702096 |pmid=19584912}}</ref>. This disruption has significantly increased the rate of mammal extinction, impacting more than one-fifth of all global mammal species<ref>Millus, S. (2008). Mammals encounter tougher times; new assessment of species show. Science News, 174: 15</ref>. Despite their important ecosystem services, fauna species continue to be endangered by human-induced activities<ref>Schippe, J. (2008). The status of the worlds land and marine mammals, Diversity, threat, and Marine mammals. Diversity, Threat, and Knowledge Science 322: 225-230</ref>. Habitat destruction and degradation stand out as major factors contributing to the extinction and decline of mammalian herbivores<ref>Munguía, M., Trejo, I., González-Salazar, C. and Pérez-Maqueo, O. (2016). Human impact gradient on mammalian biodiversity. Global Ecology and Conservation, 6, 79- 92</ref>. Mammalian herbivores encompass mammals of various body sizes, both small and large, adapted to consuming plant materials and playing a fundamental role in rangeland dynamics. They are categorized into grazers, primarily feeding on grasses and forbs, and browsers, primarily feeding on woody vegetation<ref>Holdo, Ricardo M.; Holt, Robert D.; Fryxell, John M. (2009). Grazers, browsers, and fire influence the extent and spatial pattern of tree cover in the Serengeti. Ecological Applications 19(1): 95-109</ref>. These herbivores inhabit diverse terrestrial ecosystems across the globe<ref>Ripple, W.J. Newsome T.M. Wolf, C. Dirzo, R. Everatt, K. T. Galetti, M. Hayward, M. W. Kerley, G.I Levi, T. and Lindsey, P.A (2015). Collapse of the world largest herbivores. Science Advance 1:4: e1400103</ref> <ref>Ogunjemite, B.G., Ashimi, T.A. and Okeyoyin, T. (2010). The Chimpanzee Community of German-Fort, and the potentials for the development tourism-based management of Gashaka-Gumti National Park, Nigeria. Journal of Sustained Development in Africa, 12.4: 108-112</ref>.
The '''Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary''' in [[Cross River State]] in southern Nigeria covers {{cvt|104|km2}}.<ref>[http://www.wdpa.org/siteSheet.aspx?sitecode=36842 World Database on Protected Areas]{{dead link|date=June 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> The [[wildlife sanctuary]] was founded in 2000 to provide refuge for endangered animal species, including the [[Cross River gorilla]], the [[Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee]], the [[Drill (animal)|drill]] and the [[gray-necked rockfowl]].

Protected areas hold ecological significance for both large and small mammals, influencing the extent of vegetation degradation and improvement <ref>Yager, G.O., Alarape, A. and Bunza, M.S. (2017). Evaluation of range condition and trend of Ikwe Forest Reserve Igbor, Gwer-East Local Government Areas of Benue State, Nigeria. Asian Journal of Environmental and Ecology 3.3: 1-11</ref>. Human activities have significantly impacted the biosphere by altering original vegetation cover, replacing it with either different flora or artificial structures. On a global scale, one of the most ecologically significant anthropogenic impacts on mammalian herbivores is habitat loss. Herbivores are often utilized as indicator species, especially in the dynamics of land use and land cover.

The '''Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary''' in [[Cross River State]] in southern Nigeria covers {{cvt|104|km2}}.<ref>[http://www.wdpa.org/siteSheet.aspx?sitecode=36842 World Database on Protected Areas]{{dead link|date=June 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Afi is managed by the [[Cross River State]] Forestry Commission/Ministry of Climate Change and Forestry. Although the steep mountainous slopes of the sanctuary have largely protected the forest from logging, it is frequently damaged by dry-season bush fires that are set to clear land for farming or to catch game. Open areas created by fire are quickly colonized by herb species which form an important staple food for [[Gorilla|gorillas]]. The largest African wintering ground of the [[European swallow]] is in the western part of the sanctuary, where an estimated 20 million of these birds roost during the winter. This biodiversity hotspot is located within the mountainous and relatively rugged rainforest area at the border of Southeastern Nigeria and Southwestern Cameroon. In May 2000, the Cross River State Government established this sanctuary with the primary goal of safeguarding endemic and endangered wildlife species, with a particular focus on the Cross River gorilla (Gorilla gorilla diehli), Nigerian-Cameroon chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes eliotii), and drill (Mandrillus leucophaeus). Surrounding this protected area are sixteen human communities, which include Katabang, Buanchor, Olum, Enyi, Kakwagom, Esekwe, Ebok-Ebuawa, Asuben, Bitiah, Kakubok, Ndemachang, Katchie, Ebbaken, Okubuchi, Nkanyia, and Njua-Kaku<ref name=":2">Edet DI. 2011. Biodiversity Utilization Pattern in Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary, Cross River State, Nigeria. Ph.D. Thesis, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria. Pp 308.</ref>.

The entire region falls within a broad annual rainfall zone, receiving an average of 3,000 mm to 3,800 mm of rainfall, with variations increasing from lowland to uphill areas<ref>Agbor CO. 2003. An Ecological Basis for the Management of Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary, Cross River State. Unpublished PhD Thesis, Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Management, University of Ibadan. Pp. 119 - 210.</ref>. The rainy season typically spans from March to September, while the dry season extends from October to March. The mean temperature across Afi Mountain is approximately 22.2°C, but it rises to 27.4°C in the lowland areas. The protected region is primarily situated in the tropical high forest vegetation zone and is rich in various tree species, including Pterocarpus osun, Albizia zygia, Parkia bicolor, Pycnanthus angolensis, Irvingia gabonensis, and Monodora myristica <ref>McFarland K. 1998. Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary Field Guide, pp. 3.</ref><ref>Edet DI, Ijeomah HM, Ogogo AU. 2012. Preliminary Survey of Tree Species Diversity in Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary, Southern Nigeria. Agriculture and Biology Journal of North America, 3 (12): 486-492.</ref>. Additionally, the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary (AMWS) is home to notable wildlife species such as the red river hog (Potamochoerus porcus),<ref name=":2" /> bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus), Shelley’s eagle owl (Bubo Shelleyi), African piculet (Sasia africana), migrating European barn swallows (Hirundo rustica), and the bare-necked rock fowl (Picarthertes oreas).

== Animal Species found in Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary ==

=== White-Throated Monkey ===
The white-throated monkey, scientifically known as Cercopithecus erythrogaster, ranks among the planet's severely endangered primates<ref>Mittermeier, R. A., Janette, W., Anthony, B. R., Jorg, U. G., J. F. Oates., E. A. Willianson., Erwin, P., Eckhard, W. H., M. C. Kierulff., Long, Y., J. Supriatna., Christian, R., Sally. W., L. Corte’s-Ortiz and C. Schwitzer. (2009): Primates in Peril: The worlds 25 most Endangered primates 2008-2010. Primate Conservation (24):pp1-57.</ref>. Despite being safeguarded by Nigeria's Endangered Species Decree No. 11 of 1985, it receives conservation and protection exclusively within National Parks, Game Reserves, and Wildlife Sanctuaries<ref>Ajayi, S., Edet, D.I., Bukie, J.O. (2011). Population Density of the White Throated Monkey (Cercopicthecus erythrogaster) in Okomu National Park, Edo State. Nigeria Journal of Agriculture, Forestry and the Social Sciences. 9(2): 175-182.</ref>. Notably, there is no existing record of prior surveys focusing on the White Throated Monkey in the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary (AMWS), despite its potential for ecotourism. Habitat disturbance triggered by deforestation is a primary concern, resulting in a reduction in the population of various animal species due to either mortality or migration to more stable habitats. Another significant challenge is indiscriminate hunting, contributing to the population decline of numerous animal species within any given habitat<ref>Ajayi, S., Eniang, E. A. and Bukie, J. O. (2012). Effect of hunting activities on the population of White-Throated monkeys (Cercopithecus erythrogaster) in Okomo National Park, Edo State, Nigeria. CRUTECH Journal of Science and Engineering and Technology, 1(2):1-6.</ref>. Hence, the White Throated Monkey stands as a species facing a considerable threat<ref>Nigeria Conservation Foundation (N.C.F. 2006). Nigeria’s endangered animal species. Handbill, edited by Ibrahim Inahoro, January, 2006. Pp 1-6.</ref>.

The White-throated Monkey possesses distinctive white fur on its chest and throat, providing a stark contrast to the dark hue of the rest of its fur. Typically, its coat is a dark olive-brown or blackish shade and features a white rump patch. Its facial area is devoid of fur, displaying dark skin, and notable white beard and moustache features. Its tail is lengthy and often culminates in a tuft of white fur. This monkey species primarily inhabits the tropical rainforests of Central and West Africa, including various forest types like primary and secondary forests. Their activity is mainly diurnal and arboreal, spending a significant portion of their time in trees. Their dietary preferences encompass fruits, leaves, seeds, insects, and sporadically, small animals. These monkeys exhibit exceptional climbing skills and agility in jumping. Their social structure involves group living, ranging from small clusters to larger troops, typically led by a dominant male. Conservation-wise, the White-throated Monkey holds a status of "Least Concern" (LC) on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species<ref>Mittermeier, R. A., Janette, W., Anthony, B. R., Jorg, U. G., J. F. Oates., E. A. Willianson., Erwin, P., Eckhard, W. H., M. C. Kierulff., Long, Y., J. Supriatna., Christian, R., Sally. W., L. Corte’s-Ortiz and C. Schwitzer. (2009): Primates in Peril: The worlds 25 most Endangered primates 2008-2010. Primate Conservation (24):pp1-57.</ref>. However, akin to numerous primate species, they encounter threats such as habitat degradation due to deforestation, hunting for bushmeat, and illegal wildlife trade. Similar to many primates, the White-throated Monkey serves a crucial role in its ecosystem by aiding in seed dispersal, promoting the growth and regeneration of plants and trees within the forest.

=== The Cross River gorilla (Gorilla gorilla diehli) ===
The Cross River gorilla (Gorilla gorilla diehli), a specific type within the western gorilla (Gorilla gorilla) family, is primarily situated in adjacent forest sections along the borders of South-Southern Nigeria and South-Western Cameroon. This region is acknowledged as a biodiversity hotspot, notable for its abundance of species and endemism<ref>Edet DI, 2011. Biodiversity Utilization Pattern in Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary, Cross River State, Nigeria. Ph.D. Thesis, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria</ref>. Regrettably, this subspecies stands as one of the most critically endangered primates in Africa <ref>Oates JF, Bergl RA, Sunderland-Groves J, Dunn A, 2008. Gorilla gorilla ssp. diehli. In IUCN 2013


</ref><ref>International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN), 2013. Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2013.1. (downloaded 21-08-2013). <nowiki>http://www</nowiki> www.iucnredlist.org</ref>. In fact, it has been recognized as one of the planet's 25 most endangered primates <ref>Mittermeier RA, Wallis J, Rylands AB, Ganzhorn JU, Oates JF, Williamson EA, Palacios E, Heymann EW, Kierulff MCM, Yongcheng L, Supriatna J, Roos C, Walker S, Cortés-Ortiz L, Schwitzer C, eds, 2009. Primates in Peril: The World's 25 Most Endangered Primates 2008–2010 (PDF). Illustrated by S.D. Nash. Arlington, Virginia: IUCN/SSC Primate Specialist Group (PSG), International Primatological Society (IPS), and Conservation International (CI). Pp. 1–92.</ref>. With human expansion encroaching on their habitats, the Cross River gorilla faces a swift decline in habitat, posing a serious threat to its population. The Cross River gorilla (Gorilla gorilla diehli), chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes vellorosus), and drill (Mandrillus leucophaeus) are among the primates protected by the Endangered Species Decree 11 of 1985, yet they face the threat of being hunted for bushmeat and other purposes<ref>Edet DI, 2011. Biodiversity Utilization Pattern in Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary, Cross River State, Nigeria. Ph.D. Thesis, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.</ref>. The critical challenge to the survival of this subspecies lies in the absence of a comprehensive conservation strategy essential for its protection. Effectively conserving wild animal species necessitates accurate and reliable information regarding their population numbers, age distribution, sex ratio, productivity rates, distribution, daily routines, and seasonal movements<ref>Imong IS, Dunn A, 2005. Report of Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary Gorilla Census. March 2005. NCF-WCS Biodiversity Research Programme, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. Pp. 19.</ref>. Obtaining precise population estimates is crucial for wildlife population management<ref>Krebs CJ, 1999. Ecological Methodology. Second edition. Addison Welsey Publishers, Menlo Park, California.</ref>. Reliable knowledge of the status and trends of animal populations, gathered through inventories and socio-ecological studies, is a fundamental requirement for successful wildlife conservation programs<ref>Plumptre AJ, Cox D, 2006. Counting primates for conservation: primate surveys in Uganda. Primates, 47:65–73</ref> <ref>Leca J, Gunst N, Rompis A, Soma G, Putra IGAA, Wandia IA, 2013. Population density and abundance of ebony leaf monkeys (Trachypithecus auratus) in West Bali National Park, Indonesia. Primate Cons, 26(1):133-144</ref>. Therefore, understanding the number of individuals within the subspecies, their distribution, and abundance is a vital component of ecological studies focusing on gorillas and their habitat, particularly within the forested corridor spanning the Afi Mountains and Mbe Mountains. The Mbe Mountains host the nearest subpopulations of Cross River gorillas, making it a top priority for the AMWS partnership to safeguard the forested corridor connecting these areas. This protection is crucial to prevent the permanent isolation of gorillas and other mammals in the Afi Mountains, facilitating the development of specific conservation strategies and policies to advance gorilla conservation in both the Afi and Mbe Mountains.
Afi is managed by the [[Cross River State]] Forestry Commission/Ministry of Climate Change and Forestry. Although the steep mountainous slopes of the sanctuary have largely protected the forest from logging, it is frequently damaged by dry-season bush fires that are set to clear land for farming or to catch game. Open areas created by fire are quickly colonized by herb species which form an important staple food for [[Gorilla|gorillas]]. The largest African wintering ground of the [[European swallow]] is in the western part of the sanctuary, where an estimated 20 million of these birds roost during the winter. The Sanctuary is surrounded by 16 communities with a total population of approximately 27,000.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary |url=https://nigeria.wcs.org/Wild-Places/Afi-Mountain-Wildlife-Sanctuary.aspx |access-date=2022-09-08 |website=nigeria.wcs.org}}</ref>


== Protection ==
== Protection ==
In order to secure the lives of animals on the mountain, community protection patrols was put in place, the use of local hunters to discouraged shooting and trapping of animals were encouraged. Also, an education and sensitization program was organized in the 16 villages surrounding the mountain, which brought the members of communities together for the first time as a common interest group. While hunting has been kept under control in the surrounding communities through proper awareness, the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary holds a partnership with individuals to enable continuous protection of its forest and [[wildlife]].<ref name=":1" />
In order to secure the lives of animals on the mountain, community protection patrols were put in place, the use of local hunters to discouraged shooting and trapping of animals were encouraged. Also, an education and sensitization program were organized in the 16 villages surrounding the mountain, which brought the members of communities together for the first time as a common interest group. While hunting has been kept under control in the surrounding communities through proper awareness, the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary holds a partnership with individuals to enable continuous protection of its forest and [[wildlife]].<ref name=":1" />


== Features ==
== Features ==
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{{Nigeria-geo-stub}}
{{Africa-protected-area-stub}}
{{Africa-protected-area-stub}}
[[Category:Deforestation in Nigeria]]

Revision as of 15:32, 16 October 2023

Introduction

Waterfall in Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary

Wildlife sanctuaries play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity and represent significant ecotourism potential, making them prominent sites for effective management and conservation efforts[1][2]. These sanctuaries provide a habitat for a majority of the remaining flora and fauna species, particularly mammalian herbivores. However, human activities are causing increasing degradation of wildlife sanctuaries. Anthropogenic activities like game exploitation, logging, farming, and urbanization in the vicinity of protected areas pose significant challenges to wildlife conservation, particularly in West Africa[3][4]. Consequently, numerous species have become rare, and their population numbers and habitats have seen significant declines in the past century[5]. Human activities, both legal and illegal, can lead to the extinction of fauna species, particularly mammalian herbivores, and the loss of herbivores can disrupt ecosystems, often negatively affecting other species and ecosystem services[6]. Both the environment and anthropogenic effects pose threats to the populations of large and small mammals. Human activities, especially illegal ones, have disrupted the ecological balance in protected areas, affecting various fauna species within these ecosystems[7]. This disruption has significantly increased the rate of mammal extinction, impacting more than one-fifth of all global mammal species[8]. Despite their important ecosystem services, fauna species continue to be endangered by human-induced activities[9]. Habitat destruction and degradation stand out as major factors contributing to the extinction and decline of mammalian herbivores[10]. Mammalian herbivores encompass mammals of various body sizes, both small and large, adapted to consuming plant materials and playing a fundamental role in rangeland dynamics. They are categorized into grazers, primarily feeding on grasses and forbs, and browsers, primarily feeding on woody vegetation[11]. These herbivores inhabit diverse terrestrial ecosystems across the globe[12] [13].

Protected areas hold ecological significance for both large and small mammals, influencing the extent of vegetation degradation and improvement [14]. Human activities have significantly impacted the biosphere by altering original vegetation cover, replacing it with either different flora or artificial structures. On a global scale, one of the most ecologically significant anthropogenic impacts on mammalian herbivores is habitat loss. Herbivores are often utilized as indicator species, especially in the dynamics of land use and land cover.

The Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary in Cross River State in southern Nigeria covers 104 km2 (40 sq mi).[15] Afi is managed by the Cross River State Forestry Commission/Ministry of Climate Change and Forestry. Although the steep mountainous slopes of the sanctuary have largely protected the forest from logging, it is frequently damaged by dry-season bush fires that are set to clear land for farming or to catch game. Open areas created by fire are quickly colonized by herb species which form an important staple food for gorillas. The largest African wintering ground of the European swallow is in the western part of the sanctuary, where an estimated 20 million of these birds roost during the winter. This biodiversity hotspot is located within the mountainous and relatively rugged rainforest area at the border of Southeastern Nigeria and Southwestern Cameroon. In May 2000, the Cross River State Government established this sanctuary with the primary goal of safeguarding endemic and endangered wildlife species, with a particular focus on the Cross River gorilla (Gorilla gorilla diehli), Nigerian-Cameroon chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes eliotii), and drill (Mandrillus leucophaeus). Surrounding this protected area are sixteen human communities, which include Katabang, Buanchor, Olum, Enyi, Kakwagom, Esekwe, Ebok-Ebuawa, Asuben, Bitiah, Kakubok, Ndemachang, Katchie, Ebbaken, Okubuchi, Nkanyia, and Njua-Kaku[16].

The entire region falls within a broad annual rainfall zone, receiving an average of 3,000 mm to 3,800 mm of rainfall, with variations increasing from lowland to uphill areas[17]. The rainy season typically spans from March to September, while the dry season extends from October to March. The mean temperature across Afi Mountain is approximately 22.2°C, but it rises to 27.4°C in the lowland areas. The protected region is primarily situated in the tropical high forest vegetation zone and is rich in various tree species, including Pterocarpus osun, Albizia zygia, Parkia bicolor, Pycnanthus angolensis, Irvingia gabonensis, and Monodora myristica [18][19]. Additionally, the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary (AMWS) is home to notable wildlife species such as the red river hog (Potamochoerus porcus),[16] bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus), Shelley’s eagle owl (Bubo Shelleyi), African piculet (Sasia africana), migrating European barn swallows (Hirundo rustica), and the bare-necked rock fowl (Picarthertes oreas).

Animal Species found in Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary

White-Throated Monkey

The white-throated monkey, scientifically known as Cercopithecus erythrogaster, ranks among the planet's severely endangered primates[20]. Despite being safeguarded by Nigeria's Endangered Species Decree No. 11 of 1985, it receives conservation and protection exclusively within National Parks, Game Reserves, and Wildlife Sanctuaries[21]. Notably, there is no existing record of prior surveys focusing on the White Throated Monkey in the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary (AMWS), despite its potential for ecotourism. Habitat disturbance triggered by deforestation is a primary concern, resulting in a reduction in the population of various animal species due to either mortality or migration to more stable habitats. Another significant challenge is indiscriminate hunting, contributing to the population decline of numerous animal species within any given habitat[22]. Hence, the White Throated Monkey stands as a species facing a considerable threat[23].

The White-throated Monkey possesses distinctive white fur on its chest and throat, providing a stark contrast to the dark hue of the rest of its fur. Typically, its coat is a dark olive-brown or blackish shade and features a white rump patch. Its facial area is devoid of fur, displaying dark skin, and notable white beard and moustache features. Its tail is lengthy and often culminates in a tuft of white fur. This monkey species primarily inhabits the tropical rainforests of Central and West Africa, including various forest types like primary and secondary forests. Their activity is mainly diurnal and arboreal, spending a significant portion of their time in trees. Their dietary preferences encompass fruits, leaves, seeds, insects, and sporadically, small animals. These monkeys exhibit exceptional climbing skills and agility in jumping. Their social structure involves group living, ranging from small clusters to larger troops, typically led by a dominant male. Conservation-wise, the White-throated Monkey holds a status of "Least Concern" (LC) on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species[24]. However, akin to numerous primate species, they encounter threats such as habitat degradation due to deforestation, hunting for bushmeat, and illegal wildlife trade. Similar to many primates, the White-throated Monkey serves a crucial role in its ecosystem by aiding in seed dispersal, promoting the growth and regeneration of plants and trees within the forest.

The Cross River gorilla (Gorilla gorilla diehli)

The Cross River gorilla (Gorilla gorilla diehli), a specific type within the western gorilla (Gorilla gorilla) family, is primarily situated in adjacent forest sections along the borders of South-Southern Nigeria and South-Western Cameroon. This region is acknowledged as a biodiversity hotspot, notable for its abundance of species and endemism[25]. Regrettably, this subspecies stands as one of the most critically endangered primates in Africa [26][27]. In fact, it has been recognized as one of the planet's 25 most endangered primates [28]. With human expansion encroaching on their habitats, the Cross River gorilla faces a swift decline in habitat, posing a serious threat to its population. The Cross River gorilla (Gorilla gorilla diehli), chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes vellorosus), and drill (Mandrillus leucophaeus) are among the primates protected by the Endangered Species Decree 11 of 1985, yet they face the threat of being hunted for bushmeat and other purposes[29]. The critical challenge to the survival of this subspecies lies in the absence of a comprehensive conservation strategy essential for its protection. Effectively conserving wild animal species necessitates accurate and reliable information regarding their population numbers, age distribution, sex ratio, productivity rates, distribution, daily routines, and seasonal movements[30]. Obtaining precise population estimates is crucial for wildlife population management[31]. Reliable knowledge of the status and trends of animal populations, gathered through inventories and socio-ecological studies, is a fundamental requirement for successful wildlife conservation programs[32] [33]. Therefore, understanding the number of individuals within the subspecies, their distribution, and abundance is a vital component of ecological studies focusing on gorillas and their habitat, particularly within the forested corridor spanning the Afi Mountains and Mbe Mountains. The Mbe Mountains host the nearest subpopulations of Cross River gorillas, making it a top priority for the AMWS partnership to safeguard the forested corridor connecting these areas. This protection is crucial to prevent the permanent isolation of gorillas and other mammals in the Afi Mountains, facilitating the development of specific conservation strategies and policies to advance gorilla conservation in both the Afi and Mbe Mountains.

Protection

In order to secure the lives of animals on the mountain, community protection patrols were put in place, the use of local hunters to discouraged shooting and trapping of animals were encouraged. Also, an education and sensitization program were organized in the 16 villages surrounding the mountain, which brought the members of communities together for the first time as a common interest group. While hunting has been kept under control in the surrounding communities through proper awareness, the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary holds a partnership with individuals to enable continuous protection of its forest and wildlife.[34]

Features

Afi is covered by an estimated 100km² of lowland and sub-montane forest with rocky peaks rising to altitudes of 1,300m. Although the steep mountainous slopes of the sanctuary have largely protected it from logging the forest is frequently damaged by dry-season bush fires set to clear new farms or to flush game.[35]

Tourism

The Afi Mountain Ranch provides accommodation for tourists in cabins. The ranch has a walkway through the forest canopy, 25 metres above the ground.[35][34]

See also

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nigeria

References

  1. ^ Thomas, L. and Middle, J. (2003). Guidelines for the management planning of protected Areas. IUCN Gland, Switzerland and Cambridge, UK https://portals.iucn.org/library/efiles/edocs/PAG-010.pdf
  2. ^ Yager, G.O., Alarape, A. and Bunza, M.S. (2017). Evaluation of range condition and trend of Ikwe Forest Reserve Igbor, Gwer-East Local Government Areas of Benue State, Nigeria. Asian Journal of Environmental and Ecology 3.3: 1-11
  3. ^ Meduna, A. J., Ogunjinmi, A. A. and Onadeko, S. A. (2009). Biodiversity conservation problems and their implications on ecotourism in Kainji Lake National Park, Nigeria. Journal of Sustainable Development in Africa, 10(4), 59-73
  4. ^ Oladipo, E.O. (2001). International initiative on Biodiversity Conservation since 1992. In Poopola, L. and Oluwanna S.A. Ed. Biodiversity Rainforest Ecosystem in Nigeria. FEPA-UNAAB linkage Center for forest Conservation Biodiversity. University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Abeokuta 23-32.
  5. ^ Onadeko, S. A. (2004). Home of the range crises, consequence and solution, UNAAB Inaugural lecture series no 17. University of Agriculture Abeokuta. Pp 86.
  6. ^ Ripple, W.J. Newsome T.M. Wolf, C. Dirzo, R. Everatt, K. T. Galetti, M. Hayward, M. W. Kerley, G.I Levi, T. and Lindsey, P.A (2015). Collapse of the world largest herbivores. Science Advance 1:4: e1400103
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