Distribution of mammalian fauna in the Matiemba and Kobo Classified Forests in the Bandama Valley District, Central Côte d'Ivoire

The Bandama Valley District, located in central Côte d'Ivoire, is a forest-savannah transition zone, home to a diversity of habitats for many animal species. However, knowledge about the mammalian fauna of this region is still fragmentary. This study aimed to provide information on the distribution of mammal species in the classified forests of Matiemba and Kobo. Linear transects and reconnaissance walks methods were performed for data collection. The results showed that in the classified forest of Matiemba, the orders of Artiodactyls and Rodents are widely present. Specifically, the bushbuck and Maxwell's duiker have a uniform distribution, while the Aulacode is almost everywhere except in the west. Lagomorphs, represented by the Cape Hare, are also present everywhere except in the Centre and the West. Carnivores and primates are less common. In the Kobo Classified Forest, Artiodactyls and Rodents are also well distributed, with frequent sightings of Bushbuck and Maxwell's Duiker everywhere. The Grasshopper and the Palm Rat are less present in the south and west, and the Cape Hare is observed almost everywhere except in the West. These results will serve as a reference for scientific research and provide essential information for the sustainable management of the Matiemba and Kobo classified forests.