The presence of researchers, ecotourists or rangers inside protected areas have a protective effect for wildlife populations, mainly by reducing poaching pressure. This assumption has been proven to be true in Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire. The conservation benefits of the presence of this long-term research area has been researched. The wildlife survey that has been conducted showed considerably higher wildlife encounter rates within the research area when compared with adjacent areas.
Additionally to this positive effect, especially pronounced for the endangered red colobus monkey (Procolobus badius), les signs of poaching were observed. The study emphasizes the value of establishing long-term research/conservation sites as an integral part of protected area management.
(Source: Biology letters, 30.03.2011)
