The population ecology and habitat relationships of Grant’s gazelle (Nanger granti Brooke, 1872) in the Lamo Forest and the adjacent fragmented forests in South Central Ethiopia

A population ecology study of Grant’s gazelle (Nanger granti) was conducted in Lamo Forest and adjacent fragmented forests in South Central Ethiopia between September 2023 and August 2024. Despite limited research on Grant’s gazelle in Ethiopia, our study aimed to investigate their population ecology and habitat associations during both dry and wet seasons. Population size was estimated using line-transect distance sampling method, while habitat association was assessed by analysing herd and individual abundance across different habitats. Estimated Grant’s gazelle herds in the study area comprised 185 with a mean density of 12.7 ± 3.2 individual’s/km2. The gazelle population was estimated to be 1,140 individuals in 2023 (with a range of 780 to 1,667) and 920 individuals in 2024 (with a range of 812 to 1,722). Population density, abundance, and structure exhibited variability across habitats and seasons. More gazelles were observed during the wet season compared to the dry season. The study revealed a female-biased sex ratio, suggesting favourable prospects for future population growth. Grasslands were the preferred habitat for Grant’s gazelles, indicating a strong association with this habitat in the area. Gazelles primarily consumed Chrysopogon aucheri, Brachiaria lachnantha, and Ischaemum afrum. Understanding the species autecology is vital for developing an effective, integrated conservation strategy and underscore the need for continued monitoring and habitat management to ensure the long-term viability of Grant’s gazelle populations. It is recommended to implement regular monitoring, protect key habitats, assess other ecological aspects (activity pattern, behaviors), manage fragmentation, and engage stakeholders to ensure the long-term conservation and viability of Grant’s gazelle populations.