Role of Artificial Waterholes in Supporting Wildlife Populations During Droughts and Seasonal Resource Scarcity

Abstract

The shortage of water is an ecological factor which greatly affects the survival and movements of animals in the arid and semi-arid areas of the environment, especially in cases where there are prolonged droughts and dry seasons. These problems are further exacerbated by habitat fragmentation, climate variations, and other forms of disturbances that require the formulation of effective conservation measures. The objective of this study was to analyze the contribution of artificial waterholes in conserving wildlife through observing patterns of use, diversity of species, and behavior among 28 species which included herbivorous animals, carnivorous animals, birds, and small mammals. Artificial waterholes were set up within the drought-prone environments and the activities of the wildlife assessed for six months using camera traps, field observation, and transect techniques during the drought and rainy seasons. The results revealed that there was a 42% increase in wildlife visits during times of drought, where herbivore animals were most dependent on the water source, with a rise from 48% to 68.2%. The diversity index for species grew from 2.8 to 3.4, while utilization of the waterhole increased from 6.5 to 10.2 hours daily, along with fewer migration and mortality incidences, confirming better chances of survival in such scenarios. From behavioral analysis, there was an increase in feeding, resting, and socializing activities among animals in proximity to the waterhole area. Even though there is habitat degradation and soil compaction in the areas surrounding the heavily used waterhole, this study proves that artificial water sources can be used effectively to combat drought-induced difficulties.