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| Peter Fashing, Ph.D. |
| Conservation Biologist, Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium |
| Status and Distribution of Gelada Baboons and Patterns of Human-Gelada Conflict in Northern Ethiopia |
| Location: Simen Mountains National Park, Ethiopia |
| Species: Gelada Baboon |
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| Abstract: Gelada baboons (Theropithecus gelada) are little-known grass-eating primates endemic to the Ethiopian and Eritrean highlands whose conservation status remains poorly evaluated. We will conduct the first systematic census of a gelada population in Simen Mountains National Park (SMNP), Ethiopia. We intend to identify priority areas for gelada conservation, as well as areas of human-gelada conflict within SMNP. Because they are ecologically distinct from other baboon species, phylogenetically-unique among the primates, and particularly vulnerable to human disturbance, we believe geladas are an important flagship species for the conservation of the threatened Ethiopian highlands ecosystem. Using line-transect sampling and measures of human use across SMNP, we aim to (1) determine the abundance and distribution of geladas in SMNP, (2) map priority areas for gelada conservation, (3) identify areas of human-gelada conflict, and (4) work with park authorities and local communities to develop strategies to mitigate human-gelada conflicts. The information obtained from this study will provide an important contribution to the long-term conservation of wild geladas. |
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| Campsite at Guassa |
View of geladas down toward sleeping cliffs
and valley below |
Project Update: May 2006
Six weeks were spent at Guassa in the Menz Highlands, Ethiopia initiating a long-term study of the behavior, ecology and conservation of gelada baboons (Theropithecus gelada). During the preliminary visit, the project (1) established a temporary campsite at Ras Ketema, (2) hired and trained camp staff and research assistants, (3) identified and counted bands and all-male groups of geladas living within walking distance of the camp, (4) habituated one of the three bands (Steelers band) to within 5-15 meters of human observers, (5) learned to recognize ~20% of individuals (30 adult females and 10 adult males) in the Steelers band, (6) collected preliminary data on the Steelers band's patterns of habitat use and ranging behavior, and (7) identified four locations at which to conduct systematic censuses of geladas so that density can be estimated and a total number of geladas living at Guassa will be determined on the next visit. Preliminary data suggests that there are at least three all-male groups living within 1.5 hours walk from our campsite numbering approximately 223 (Steelers band), 300 (Browns band), and 91 (Raiders band) individuals. At least three all-male groups occupy overlapping area with these bands, numbering 20, 10 and 4 adult and sub-adult males. Members of the Steelers band at Guassa spent far more of their time in Helichrysum/Festuca grassland than any other habitat type. It was also found that they occupied a home range of 3-4 km and traveled an average of 2,904 ± 600 meters per day. These ranging values were, on average, higher for geladas previously studied in the Simen Mountains, suggesting that food may be less abundant for galadas at Guassa than in the Simens. Gelada research will continue at Guassa upon return to Ethiopia for a 6-month visit beginning in November 2006. |
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Geladas grooming on edge of hill
(photo by N. Nguyen) |
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| Humphrey |
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| Ad female grooming yawning ad male |
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(All photos by P. Fashing unless otherwise noted) |
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