Title
Improving the tourist experience in Queen Elizabeth Protected Area: Addressing the invasive species and re-assessment of the tourism tracks with specific reference to lions
Author(s)
Samuel Ayebare; Ben Kirunda; Moses Nyago; Simon Nampindo
Published
2020
Abstract
This report summarizes the analysis conducted to re-assess the current tourism circuits with specific reference to lions in the Queen Elizabeth Protected Area (QEPA) to guide park management on how to improve the tourism experience amidst the changes in the park ecosystem. The study examined the abundance and distribution of large mammals species (e.g. Uganda kob, Elephant, Buffalo, Topi, Warthog, Waterbuck, Giant forest hog, Hippopotamus) based on the aerial surveys conducted in 2010, 2014 and 2018, and the lion occurrence and ranging patterns observed during the monitoring of satellite-collared individuals as a proxy for tourism potential. We also considered factors that have diminished the tourism experience and satisfaction inside the park such as road density, the abundance and distribution of three main invasive plant species (Dichrostachys cinerea, Imperata cylindrica, and Lantana camara) that are known to have the highest impact on ecosystem functioning and ranging patterns of prey and predators among others in QEPA. We examined the management strategies and actions, including the reconfiguration of the current tourism circuits to create new ones.
Keywords
tourism; lions; invasive species

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