Mapping of habitat suitability for Beisa Oryx in Awash National Park: Implications for Management

The research aimed at determining the changes of habitat in ANP, Oryx population trend, habitat selection and delineation of its suitable habitat. Vegetation change detection in ANP was done by using remote sensing and GIS applications. Four habitat categories were used for habitat selections which include vegetation type, ground cover, slope and distance from water. The trends of Oryx population and vegetation change including other factors were correlated. The result of vegetation change has showed that there is a significant change in most vegetation types. Grassland and wooded grassland with short grass cover in flat slopes between 3 – 6kms away from water is the most preferred habitat for Oryx in ANP. Oryx population has significantly declined between the years 1966 to 2011 and its range has highly decreased. Based on habitat suitability analysis, the current available habitat for Oryx can be substantially increased by interventions of different alternatives. It was recommended that, proper habitat management and sufficient protection are required to maintain the declining Oryx population and grassland habitats.