In the Western Kalahari, we have now completed our recent motion camera survey looking at biodiversity and predator populations on the Ghanzi farmlands. The survey has shown a healthy level of biodiversity, with 25 different mammal species being photographed on cattle farms (not including domestic stock!). A total of 7722 photos were captured during the survey, spread over 26 camera stations. Brown hyena proved to be the biggest problem with four cameras sustaining damage due to these curious, but powerful jaws. The survey aimed to develop the technique for the use with cheetah and to assess predator numbers on farmland. The results will be published later this year. Camera traps are an ideal remote method to assess predator numbers, particularly on farmlands were predators tend to be very elusive as they come into conflict with humans in these areas and are often not seen, even though they are present. Development of such indirect techniques such as camera traps and track/spoor surveys is essential to better understand the status of predators outside of protected areas.
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