Our track and camera trap surveys are carried out using transects throughout the study area. This allows us to identify hyena presence as well as the presence of prey species and other carnivores. With the use of a GPS device to record tracks, all this data can be transferred on to mapping system GIS for us to display different species habitat use and geographical distribution.
Hyenas have communal dens, visited regularly by each clan member and where young is raised. Through tracking, camera trapping and the reported sighting by locals, we can identify potential den sites which we then equip with cameras traps. Upon confirmation of a den site, the cameras will be permanently installed to identify the number of clan members and collect each individuals ID.
The spot pattern on a spotted hyena is unique to them. These patterns do not change with age, and therefore once identifying an individual, we are able to recognize them at a later stage. The pictures taken from the left and right site of the hyenas are added to the Photo-ID-Catalog
When a camera trap captures an individual, we ID the individual from their unique pattern, and as each camera trap station is marked via GPS we will also know this individuals location. We then build up a catalogue of each individuals captures on the different cameras throughout the study area, which enables us to determine the individuals distribution and home ranges across the area with the use of GIS.
Along with the distribution data from the hyenas, we plot the extension of human settlements to determine the overlap. This enables us to narrow down potential conflict hotspots, whereby a hyena`s home range overlaps with human inhabited areas. Working with the communities within these hotspots, we apply a so-called Conflict Reporting Network (CRN) where communities and United Tansania enter into a dialog on how to work transparently together, exchange data and the interpretation of findings. Then we are able to put agreed upon preventative measures in place to reduce the incidences of conflict.
