The Impact of Human Encroachment in the Habitat of Hippopotamus (<i>Hippopotamus amphibious</i>) in Mbam et Djerem National Park, Cameroon

This study explores the relationship between vegetation quality and human encroachment in the habitat of the hippopotamus (<i>Hippopotamus amphibius</i>) at Mbam et Djerem National Park, Cameroon. As a critical habitat for diverse flora and fauna, the park faces increasing pressure from human activities, including agriculture, logging, and settlement expansion. Our research aim was to assess how these activities impact vegetation quality and subsequently affect hippopotamus populations. Research data collection was based on categorizing various methods of human encroachment. Our findings indicate that regions experiencing high levels of encroachment exhibited significant declines in vegetation quality, which may limit the availability of food sources for hippopotamuses. Additionally, we conducted interviews with local communities to understand their perceptions of wildlife and land use. The results reveal a complex interplay between conservation efforts and the socioeconomic needs of local populations. The vegetation quality revealed a significant association on photo-period X<sup>2</sup> = 19.917 df=4 P=0.001, animals habitat X<sup>2</sup> = 21.138 df=4 P=0.000, River-water quality X<sup>2</sup> = 10.687 df=4 P=0.03, and animal behavior X<sup>2</sup> = 19.912 df=4 P=0.001 respectively. Additionally, human encroachment into the animals habitat recorded a significant link on food resources r=0.195 P<0.05, animal behavior X<sup>2</sup> = 3.063 df=4 P<0.05, and Conservation Measures X<sup>2 </sup>= 9.363 df=4 P<0.05 respectively. Also, fuel-wood gathering 50% recorded the highest encroachment threat, while poaching 38% and crop-farming 12% recorded the least threats respectively. This study emphasized the urgent need for integrated management strategies that balance human development and wildlife conservation to ensure the long-term survival of hippopotamus populations in Mbam et Djerem National Park. Our findings contribute to the broader discourse on habitat conservation in the face of anthropogenic pressures in Central Africa.