Nocturnal raptors populations in the coastal forest area of Côte d'Ivoire

Abstract

Nocturnal raptors populations were studied in four protected areas (Monogaga and Dassioko Classified Forests, Azagny and Banco National Parks) of the coastal forest area of Côte d’Ivoire, between December 2004 and January 2006, in order to collect reliable data which give a clear picture of nocturnal raptors populations in the studied area. The technique of replaying vocalisation or call- playback from the listening and observing stations in different habitats and seasons constituted the essential of the methodology adopted in this study. Results showed that despite of the numerous threats, the sampling sites possess again an important nocturnal raptors populations (45.45 % of raptors species normally found in the area). A total population of 215 individuals of five species from two families of nocturnal raptors was recorded in this study. The Azagny NP site is the most diversified (H' = 1.44) with a better distribution (E = 0.91) of these birds in this site. The bird population varies from one site to another, but very little depending on the season.The highest relative density is 3.5 and corresponds to the density of Strixwoodfordii in large rainy season and in small dry season in the site of Dassioko.