Anthropogenic Interference on the Ecosystem of Pangolin in Deng-Deng National Park, Eastern Region, Cameroon

Melle Ekane Maurice*, Agbor James Ayamba, Fominka Tajoacha Nestor and Mesumbe Bernsirene Ewange

Habitat degradation and fragmentation, driven by deforestation and agricultural expansion, have resulted in the loss of suitable habitats for pangolins. Additionally, illegal hunting and trade, fueled by the demand for pangolin scales and meat, have further exacerbated population declines. The research focused on assessing the impacts of human interference on pangolins and their habitats, highlighting the need for effective conservation measures to mitigate these threats. However, the study utilized a combination of data collection methods, such as field surveys and interviews, to investigate the extent and consequences of human interference in the pangolin environment in Deng Deng-Deng National Park. The presence of human activity in the pangolin ecosystem showed a significance on forest vegetation type X2 = 18.806, df = 9, p < 0.05, forest vegetation canopy X2 = 10.528, df = 6, p < 0.05, and forest undergrowth vegetation X2 = 6.877, df = 6, p < 0.05, respectively. Empty bullet shells 52% and snares 29% recorded the highest significance of human activity, while hunters’ hut 16% and hunting human trails, 3% recorded the least, respectively. Pangolins are highly valued for their scales and meat in certain cultures, leading to illegal wildlife trade. Forest vegetation visibility recorded a significance on human signs, X2 = 3.162, df = 6, p < 0.05. The forest vegetation landscape and human signs in the pangolin environment showed a significant association as well, X2 = 8.972, df = 6, p < 0.05. More so, human interference, such as poaching, trails, and infrastructure development in pangolin environments, fragments forest landscapes and disrupts pangolin movement. Additionally, forest canopy and landscape recorded a significant X2 = 5.434 df = 4 p < 0.05. The heterogeneity of the forest landscape, which refers to the variety and spatial arrangement of different habitat types, influences the diversity and structure of the forest vegetation canopy. Furthermore, the atmospheric conditions revealed a positive association with human signs in the pangolin ecosystem, r = 0.108, p < 0.05. Also, feeding 67%, earth-surface scratches 16%, and droppings 15% recorded the highest pangolin signs, while pangolin footprints 1% and trails 1% recorded the least, respectively. Illegal hunting and trade were identified as significant factors contributing to the decline of pangolin populations. The unsustainable harvest of pangolins has led to population declines and imbalances within the park's ecosystem. The study highlights the detrimental impact of human interference on pangolin populations and their habitats within Deng Deng-Deng National Park. Also, findings emphasize the urgent need for effective conservation measures to mitigate habitat degradation, address illegal hunting and trade, and engage local communities in pangolin conservation efforts. By implementing these measures, there is a greater chance of preserving the pangolin environment and ensuring the long-term survival of these unique and endangered creatures within the park.

Keywords:

Published on: Nov 28, 2025 Pages: 31-39

Full Text PDF Full Text HTML DOI: 10.17352/gje.000113
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