Species endangerment is a prominent, yet complex threat to our ecosystems because no two species are the same. Thus, a unique approach is required to effectively conserve each species. These approaches require a range of detailed information to ensure that conservation efforts are achievable without expending don’t cause inadvertent effects on the species health, relationships, or habitat.
This project focused on Grevy’s Zebra, Equus grevyi, an endangered species that lives primarily in the remote dry grasslands and savannahs of Kenya. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and statistical analysis were utilized to identify the environmental factors that are most associated with Grevy’s Zebra distribution and develop a model capable of indicating the best-suited habitat for the species. The distance to the nearest water pans and precipitation were the most significant factors in the model, which indicated that the Kenyan county of Laikipia contains the most suitable habitat for Grevy’s Zebras, in addition to a few vital regions in Samburu and and Meru. Conservationists, land managers, and policy makers can use this information to effectively prioritize resources for protecting and preserving the resources and regions that are most crucial to Grevy’s Zebra population health and growth.
Author(s); Allie Boyd, Geography and Biology Major
Advisor(s): John Maingi, Department of Geography
You must be logged in to post a comment.