ANTONÍNOVÁ M., NEŽERKOVÁ P., VINCKE X., AL-OGOUMRABE N.
Abstract
The western subspecies of the Giant Eland (Taurotragus derbianus derbianus)
is at the point of extinction. The last secure population lives in the Niokolo
Koba National park (eastern Senegal) in number of 100-150 individuals. The Society
for Protection of Environment and Wildlife in Senegal (SPEFS) in cooperation
with Direction of National Parks of Senegal and Czech University of Agriculture
in Prague conducts the Giant Eland conservation program in Senegal. The first
captive breeding group in the World was established in the Bandia Reserve.
An original herd comprised one male and five females in May 2000. The herd structure
of total number of 17 individuals consisted of 6 adults, 2 sub-adults, 5 young
and 4 calves in April 2004. The identification of each animal was carried out
by direct observations, recording of particular characteristics of animals,
and with the help of photos. The identification cards for each individual in
particular were established upon recordings. The identification brings basic
data for the creation of studbook and for establishment of second breeding group.
In respect to necessity of shepherd “genetic management” against
inbreeding depression based on the knowledge of individual animals, the study
has significantly contributed to the long-term conservation of the gene pool
of the endangered western subspecies of the Giant Eland (Taurotragus derbianus
derbianus).
Key words:
Giant Eland; Taurotragus derbianus derbianus; Bandia Reserve; small population
management; conservation; endangered species