Since 2005, RSCF Research Associate Lyndon Estes, Ph.D. has managed a field research program in the Aberdares, focusing on habitat utilization by wild bongo. This research complements other recovery efforts, both ex situ and in situ, by helping to identify appropriate habitat for sustainable reintroduction, train local guides and researchers, and bolster monitoring and protection of the remaining wild bongo population.

The pictures you see above were taken with a Bushnell remote sensing camera system, or camera "trap", set up near a salt lick within the Aberdares National Park (Honi Valley) in 2007. The laser-triggered camera captured images of a variety of animal species visiting the mineral lick including elephant; waterbuck; warthog; buffalo; and significantly, a mountain bongo female and calf. These photos are invaluable in assessing the status of remnant bongo population within the national park.

Below are recent reports submitted by Dr. Estes.

Habitat Selection by Rare Antelope 2008
Remote Sensing of Environment 2009
Bongo Surveillance Field Update April - June 2010
Bongo Surveillance Field Update July - September 2010