Socio-economic Impact on Grey Parrot Survival, Implications on the Conservation of the Species in Kom National Park-Mengame Gorilla Sanctuary Complex, South-Cameroon

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to assess the perception of local residents regarding the impact of human activities on grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus) in Kom National Park-Mengame Gorilla Sanctuary Complex. Based on that, a structured questionnaire was administered to 400 inhabitants. The analysis shows that the capture of parrots for trade stood at (51.50%) and mechanized logging (68.75%). These were the greatest threats to the nest failure, nest disappearance and conservation of parrots in the complex. Among the methods of capturing birds, the most often are illegal method (74%), the use of rifles (12.25%) and glue traps (27%) are the most destructive methods. Foreigners (70%) are the most involved in the catches and no restrictions are made on the stage of development of the birds collected (eggs, chicks and adults). The living population around the complex seems to have a very low impact on the parrot resource. Strict compliance with the ban on the capture of this bird in Cameroon by CITES in 2016, afforestation or control of logging and improving the standard of living of local residents would contribute to the sustainable conservation of this species in its range.