Biodiversity assessment of five forest reserves in the Brong-Ahafo Region

Abstract

A faunal inventory of five forest reserves in the Brong-Ahafo region was undertaken to determine the ecological status of levels of degradation of the reserves using birds and small mammals as bioindicators. The methodology involved live-trapping of small mammals and recording bird species using ad hoc observations and timed walks along trails or transect. Fifty individuals of nine species of were recorded, with Mastomys orythrolaucus (multimmate mouse) being the most abundant. Small mammal species diversity was highest (H’ = 1.88) and lowest (H’=0.98) in Tain I and Tain II Forest Reserves respectively. The presence of some savanna species in some of the reserves indicated high levels of degradation. Fifty-four bird species representing 22 families was recorded, with 16 of the species being under national protection. It is recommended that the serves be zoned into smaller management areas to enable more efficient management, through initiation of reforestation programmes, anti-poaching patrols, research, long-term monitoring, etc. There is need for intensive education of the local inhabitants on wildlife conservation awareness.