The spatial correlates of wildlife distribution around Garamba National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo

This study explores the relationship between human activity and the distribution of wildlife populations in north-eastern Congo. It is hypothesized that the presence of agricultural communities, proximity to urban markets and conservation practices affect three characteristics of wildlife distribution: the presence (range), abundance and community structure of large mammal populations. The area studied was extensive and required the use of wildlife sampling and remote sensing techniques to generate data on wildlife distribution and the explanatory factors. The results show that wildlife protection is associated with high animal abundance. However, the presence of agricultural populations is not associated with low animal abundance.