Species diversity, distribution and seasonal variation of large carnivores in Maze National Park, southern Ethiopia

The species’ habitat association determines species interaction with their environments and the factors influencing their distribution and abundance. Understanding habitat preferences is vital for conservation, as large carnivores play a key role in maintaining ecological balance by preying on herbivores. The study carried out from October 2020 to September 2022, and aimed to examine the species diversity, distribution and seasonal variation of large carnivore community in relation to habitat types in Maze National Park (MzNP), Ethiopia. Using both direct and indirect survey methods, the study recorded species presence and abundance across four habitat types. Results showed that grasslands supported the highest abundance and species diversity, while riverine and bushland habitats had lower diversity. The spotted hyena ( Crocuta crocuta ) was the most abundant (0.2–0.23 km -2 ), whereas cheetahs ( Acinonyx jubatus ) were the least (0.012–0.017 km -2 ). During the dry and wet seasons, 52 and 70 large carnivores were counted respectively. Statistical analysis indicated significant seasonal differences in species abundance observed in both seasons (p < 0.05), with lion ( Panthera leo ) populations varying notably across habitats and seasons. Other species did not show significant seasonal variations. The findings highlight that large carnivores prefer grassland and scattered tree with grasses emphasizing the importance of conserving these habitats. Protecting these habitats is crucial for sustaining the populations of lions, leopards ( Panthera pardus ), cheetahs, and hyenas, ensuring their ecological roles remain intact within MzNP. This research underscores habitat type as a primary factor influencing large carnivore ecology and the need for targeted conservation efforts in the area.