Wildlife Mortality on Foot Paths of the University of Dar es Salaam,
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Date
2012
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Abstract
Human population on the University of Dar es Salaam, Mlimani Campus, has
increased substantially in recent years. It is expected that the number of small animals
trampled and killed by pedestrians is correspondingly increasing but no baseline study has
hitherto been conducted. Between May 2007 and August 2008, over 1,000 animals trampled by
humans walking along foot paths at the main Campus of the University of Dar es Salaam,
Tanzania, were identified and enumerated. Human presence along foot paths was also recorded
as well as animals killed by vehicles on roads of the campus and surrounding areas. Variations
between foot paths, months, seasons and level of human abundance were examined. Invertebrates
were the most common animal kills on foot paths while most vertebrate kills were along
roads. Foot path deaths peaked during semester periods when pedestrian numbers increased.
Types and numbers of animals killed differed between foot paths, apparently in relation to
adjacent habitat. Tunnels placed at various sections of the paths would facilitate small animals
crossings and reduce mortality. Despite having the highest concentration of pedestrians, a
bridge path (path C) scored one of the lowest death tolls
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Citation
Senzota, R., 2012. Wildlife mortality on foot paths of the University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Tropical Ecology, 53(1), pp.81-92.