The Diversity, Runway cross pattern and the Potential Hazards of Mammals on Aviation activities; the case of Aba Jifar Airport, Jimma, Ethiopia

Abstract

Studies on the diversity and abundance of airport mammals help to evaluate their potential impacts to aviation industries. This study was aimed to record diversity, relative abundance and runway cross pattern of mammalian species in Aba Jifar airport compound, Jimma, Ethiopia. The study was conducted between February and August, 2020 and covers two seasons. To survey and record mammalian species, the 420 ha area of airport compound was conveniently divided in to three blocks (Block I, II and III). To record small mammal diversity, in each block about 30 to 40 mixed live and snap traps were randomly set at about 10 m interval between traps. Line transect method was employed to record medium and large mammalian diversity. Five transects, two for each grassland blocks (I & III) and one for block II (runway) were established along the east-west direction of the airport compound. Each transect has 4 km length and about 200 m space between each. Data for nocturnal mammals and night time runway crossing patterns of mammals sensor camera traps were used. Indirect methods such as dropping, pug mark, scat, and calls were also used to record the presence and absence of mammals. Total count procedure was used to record the dominant species (Bohor reedbucks). A total of 20 species of mammals were recorded, of which five were small mammals. Some of the recorded small mammals were Lophuromys flavopunctatus, Mus musculus and Rattus rattus, while reedbuck, hyena, bush pig, jackal and civet were medium and large sized. The highest species diversity of small mammals was recorded during the dry season (H’= 1.56), while the least was during the wet season (H’= 1.54). Lophuromys flavopunctatus was the most abundant species with 43(30.5%) individual, while the least was Rattus rattus 18(12.77%) individual during both seasons. Regarding medium and large sized mammals, the highest species diversity was obtained during the dry season (H’ =1.44), while wet season was the least with (H= 1.42). Bohor reedbuck was the most abundant species with 251 (60.77%) average number of individuals, followed by spotted hyena 134(16.22%) and Bush hyrax was the least 2 (0.24%) in both seasons. Reedbuck and hyena frequently crossed runway and seem potential hazardous species for the aviation activities. Translocating, at least, part of the reedbucks to reduce runway cross and to lower carnivores visit, is recommended to enhance safe aviation activity and to reduce the risk and safeguard the endemic reedbuck sub-species.