Diversity of large mammals along the proposed road across Northern Serengeti, Tanzania

A plan by the government of Tanzania to build a road across the northern part of Serengeti National Park prompted the present study which has assessed the diversity of large mammals along the proposed road before its construction. The data obtained will provide baseline information for subsequently monitoring of biodiversity along the road if constructed. The distance sampling method was used in which observers performed standardized surveys along a series of transects searching for large mammals. Generally, the diversity of large mammals were found to be higher inside the National park than outside the Park; Mugumu transect had the lowest diversity. Roads may affect both the wildlife and its habitat. Simultaneously the roads will be used to facilitate transportation of human and their properties. Therefore it is recommended that, the design, routing and management of the proposed road be carefully planned so as to minimize potential impacts to wildlife. Adequate signposts along the road, speed bumps,conservation education and community-based biodiversity management approaches should be considered. Further monitoring studies should be done after construction of the road to identify and document its impacts on biodiversity. Key Words: Large mammals, Diversity, Proposed road, Biodiversity monitoring, Serengeti National Park.