Trophy quality trends outside a protected area (CAMPFIRE): Does soil fertility influence quality?

In Zimbabwe, all the trophies hunted are measured and evaluated by the Parks and Wildlife Management Authority. The data of evaluated trophies are collected and stored in the National Trophy Database of Zimbabwe in a standardized way. Data collected for this study on trophy quality were based on task/horn length and weight, all measured using the Safari Club International (SCI) system for elephant tusks and spiral-horned species, e.g., greater kudu. An existing database of trophies and their measurements from the Tsholotsho Rural District Council was used. Another database using the Safari Club International (SCI) system was obtained from Taxidermy Enterprises, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Taxidermy Enterprises had a certified SCI measurer who measured on behalf of the Tsholotsho RDC. Any missing data from the Tsholotsho Rural District database was confirmed from the Taxidermy Enterprise records, as often was the case. SCI measures the greatest length and weight of tusks and horns and adds the figures to come up with a total score. The records from 2009 to 2015 were matched to their respective areas using an already existing database. However, the period during which these data were collected had its own fair share of challenges in terms of climate, management and politics. With such challenges, the period under the analysis of this data is not homogeneous. The economic and political status of the country between the period 2009 and 2015 may have an influence on population dynamics and trophy size.

For soil data, the National University of Science & Technology and Department of Research and Specialist Services (DR&SS) laboratories were used for preparing and testing soil properties (physical and chemical). Soil testing included an analysis of the soil chemical properties and an evaluation of the soil nutrient-supplying capacity at the time of sampling. The soil analysis process involved taking soil samples, analysis of soil samples, and interpreting the results of the sample analysis.