Reciprocal impacts of black rhino and community-based ecotourism in North-West Namibia

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This research focuses on the black rhinoceros and ecotourism in three conservation areasin the Kunene region of Namibia. The reciprocal impact between black rhino andcommunity-based ecotourism is analysed. The research is located in two communalconservancies, #Khoadi-//Hôas and Torra, and in a photographic tourism concession, thePalmwag Concession Area.The research aims to explore and describe the reciprocal impact of community-basedecotourism efforts and black rhino spatial movement patterns in three conservation areasin north-west Namibia. An in-depth literature review was undertaken on the reciprocalimpact between rhino-tracking tourism and conservation. A comparison was also madebetween the effects of human-induced disturbance on spatial movement patterns of blackrhinos and the perception of tourists about tracking black rhinos. The value of blackrhinos to community-based ecotourism was also determined.Quantitative research methodology was used for this study. Explorations of objectiveswere conducted through direct field observation with the aid of radio-telemetry trackingand aerial surveying for data gathering. The researcher employed SRT (Save the RhinoTrust) trackers in the study areas to assist with the tracking. The sample consisted of 24transmitter-fitted black rhino in the three conservation areas. Rhino not fitted withtransmitters have been included in the sample for more accurate results. Four hundredquestionnaires were distributed at four tourist lodges in the study area.The hypothesis that sustainable ecotourism does not influence black rhino spatialbehaviour was rejected. Rhinos in the study were easily disturbed and did not readilyreturn to undisturbed behaviour. Their major response to disturbance was to run away.The disturbance was influenced by their initial activity when found. The highestdisturbance occurred early in observations. Rhinos illustrated similar causes ofdisturbance throughout the study sites. The Springbok River emerged as the area with themost severe reactions to disturbance. This was supported by home range data and ecological constraints. Analysis of tourist responses regarding rhino tracking indicated ahigh demand for and level of satisfaction. This was the single determining factor fortourists to return to the Kunene region to do rhino tracking again. Tourists were willing topay close to market price to track black rhino.It is recommended that tracking of black rhino should be avoided in the Springbok Riverand Aub/Barab areas. Tracking protocols should stipulate that tracking should only beconducted early in the morning; that rhinos may only be approached from downwind;that observation time may not exceed 15 minutes; that groups must be kept small; andthat the approach distance may not be less than 100 metres.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University