Evaluation of the problem of hunting on Pico Basilé and plan for its sustainable management and continuous monitoring over time

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Main researcher: María Grande Vega (Polytechnic University of Madrid)

Description: Due to its high diversity of birds and mammals, conservation work on the island of Bioko has a special importance. After independence from Spain in 1968 until 1979, weapons were banned across the country and populations of wildlife rose to good numbers. In the 1980s, however, the ban was lifted and meat came on to the market, leading to the start of intense game hunting. This hunting activity continues today. This trade is regulated by restrictions on the hunting of specific species and all hunting of protected species, as well as the recent law that prohibits the hunting, sale and consumption of primates throughout the country. However, we know that this activity is performed not only around the two protected areas on the island, but also inside.

The aim of the project is to conserve animal species hunted in Pico Basilé National Park, taking into account the development needs of local people living around the park. The dual objectives are to:

1. Strengthen the capacity of the National University of Equatorial Guinea, and in particular the Faculty of Environment in high-quality scientific conservation research. The goal is to turn it into a body capable of providing ongoing support to the government of Equatorial Guinea in terms of its plans, projects and strategies on biodiversity and conservation related to development, especially with regard to Pico Basilé National Park.

2. Bring this to life with the first detailed study of the status of hunting on the Peak and drafting proposals for its sustainable management. Therefore the conservation status of hunted animal populations on Pico Basilé will be assessed and a socioeconomic/food study of the rural and urban population around the park will be conducted in order to understand use and dependence of this resource, while not harming those who are most vulnerable and dependent when applying the policies aimed at controlling hunting and trade; on the contrary, the aim will be to assist their development by offering better cultural and economically viable alternatives.

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