Aerial game counts

Any research programme aimed at the management and conservation of large African mammals will at some time require information as to the number of animals present in an area (Norton-Griffiths 1978). The use of helicopter’s and in particular the larger Bell Jet Ranger series is the most universally accepted aircraft for game count work. Game numbers are needed for calculations pertaining to herbivore stocking rate and the ability of the veld to carry these animals as well as the effect, of their utilisation on the resource base. It is obvious therefore that no form of wildlife management is possible without reliable information regarding numbers. The helicopter survey approach has shortcomings which may include a lack of skilled observers, observer difficulty in standardisation and relatively high costs. The value in terms of management decisions that can be taken using the results far outweigh the costs of the exercise. It is imperative therefore that a skilled team is employed. Observer fatigue is reduced on small properties such as the one under discussion, while when one calculates the cost of the game and veld resources the costs are relatively small.