Dambari Wildlife Trust – Reports & Publications
More than 20 years of continuous research has provided Dambari Wildlife Trust with a depth and breadth of knowledge about the Matobo Hills region, including local community needs, the region’s biodiversity and its unique challenges. This is reflected in the DWT’s body of research outlined below.
This work has included an unparalleled commitment to the conservation education of local people. Dambari Wildlife Trust believes that today’s youth will find the solutions that will safeguard our planet’s biodiversity. To that end, Dambari works with students to support their tertiary education enabling them to access opportunities to work at the highest level in both national and international institutions.
Peer-reviewed publications
Factors influencing the diurnal behaviour of white rhino (Ceratotherium simum) in Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe. Tichagwa, T., Pegg, N., Ndagurwa G.T., Zhuwau, C. 2020. African Journal of Ecology 58(4): 766-777.
Differing patterns of plant spinescence affect blue duiker (Bovidae: Philantomba monticola) browsing behavior and intake rates. Musariri, T., Pegg, N., Muvengwi, J. Muzama, F. 2018, Ecology and Evolution 8(23): 11754-11762.
Antelope ingestion enhances germination of the marula (Sclerocarya birrea), an important African savannah tree.
Pegg, N. 2014, African Journal of Ecology doi: 10.1111/aje.12152.
Fluid and particle passage in three species of duiker.
Clauss, M., Lunt, N., Ortmann, S., Plowman, A., Codron, D., Hummel, J. 2011. European Journal of Wildlife Research, 57, 143-148.
Defecation rate variability in the common duiker: importance of food quality, season, sex and age.
Lunt, N. & Mhlanga, M. 2011. South African Journal of Wildlife Research, 41, 29-35.
Implications of assumption violation in density estimates of antelope from dung-heap counts: a case study on grey duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia) in Zimbabwe.
Lunt, N., Bowkett, A.E., & Plowman, A. 2007. African Journal of Ecology, 45, 382-389.
Captive duiker management at the duiker and mini-antelope breeding and research institute (Dambari), Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
Bowman, V. & Plowman, A. 2002. Zoo Biology, 21, 161-170.
Nutrient intake and apparent digestibility of diets consumed by captive duikers at the Dambari Field Station, Zimbabwe.
Plowman, A.B. 2002. Zoo Biology, 21, 135-147
Reports and Popular Articles
Rhino
Dambari Wildlife Trust and Save African Rhino Foundation: a partnership comes of age.
Pegg, N. 2021. SARF News 35(1): 13.
Positive trends in the Matopos National Park.
Pegg, N. 2015. The Horn Magazine, Autumn 2015.
Rhino, rocks and rangers.
Pegg, N. 2013. The Horn Magazine, Autumn 2013.
Sharpening skills for rhino monitoring.
Bowman, V. 2012. The Horn Magazine. Autumn 2012.
If you don’t know what you’ve got… how do you know if you’ve lost it?
Bowman, V. 2010. The Horn Magazine, Spring 2010.
Carnivores
A preliminary survey of carnivores (Mammalia: Carnivora) in the Matobo Hills, Zimbabwe.
Pegg, N. 2015. Dambari Wildlife Trust. 37 pp.
Regional assessment of the status, distribution and conservation needs of cheetahs in southern Africa.
Purchase, G., Marker, L., Marnewick, K., Klein, R., & Williams, S. 2007. Cat News, Special Issue 3 – Cheetahs in southern Africa, 44-46.
Status of the cheetah in Zimbabwe.
Williams, S. 2007. Cat News, Special Issue 3: Cheetahs in southern Africa, 32-36.
A pilot GPS study on a single male cheetah in Zimbabwe.
Jacquier, M. & Woodfine, T. 2007. Cat News, 46.
Antelope
Establishing methods to monitor rare and elusive antelope species.
WWCT, 2009. Zoo Research News BIAZA Research Group Newsletter 10.1 [BIAZA Research Awards 2008 commendation].
The response of grey duikers (Sylvicapra grimmia) to conspecific faecal deposits: possible territorial implications.
Lunt, N., Chiradza, T. and Plowman, A.B. 2007. Zoo Research News BIAZA Research Group Newsletter8.1a.
Abundance, habitat selection and home ranges of grey duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia) in the Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe.
Bowkett, A.E. and Plowman, A.B. 2004. Zoo Research News Federation Research Group Newsletter 5.2 a.
Nutrient intake and digestibility of duikers at the Dambari Field Station, Zimbabwe.
Plowman A.B. 2001. Research News Federation Research Group Newsletter 2.2 a.
Duiker and mini-antelope breeding and research institute.
Plowman, A. B. and Bowman, V. J. 2000. EAZA News 32: 21-22.
Dambari Field Station, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
Plowman, A. B. and Bowman, V. J. 2000. International Zoo News 47.
Biodiversity
Gathering baseline data on the use and availability of ecosystem goods and services and the state of the ecosystem in nine administrative wards in the Matobo Hills World Heritage Site.
Sagonda, B. & Pegg, N. 2015. Dambari Wildlife Trust. 48 pp.
Conference Proceedings
Monitoring Nature through tomorrow’s leaders. Maforimbo, C. & Pegg, N.
Rufford Small Grants Conferences: Southern African Conference. Cape Town, South Africa, April 2015.
Can we accurately monitor abundance of rare and elusive mammals and do we need to? Plowman, A.B., Bowkett, A.E. and de Vere, N.
1st Annual Meeting of the Society for Conservation Biology, Port Elizabeth, South Africa, July 2007.
WWCT duiker conservation update. Plowman, A.B., de Vere, N. and Bowkett, A.E.
EAZA Annual Meeting, Warsaw, Poland, September 2007.
How do you monitor rare and elusive mammals? Counting duikers in Kenya, Tanzania and Zimbabwe. Bowkett, A.E., Lunt, N., Rovero, F. and Plowman, A.B.
EAZA Research Conference, Poznan, Poland, May 2006.
Duiker conservation update. Plowman, A.B. (given by Pullen, P.K.)
EAZA Annual Meeting, Madrid, September 2006.
Can rumination behaviour be manipulated for the benefit of welfare of captive exotic ruminants: duikers as a case study? Houghton, G.
UFAW Vacation Scholarships Symposium, London, December 2005.
The Whitley Wildlife Conservation Trust and Paignton Zoo Environmental Park – Establishing infrastructure for conservation in southern Africa. Bowkett, A.E.
2nd EAZA Conservation Forum, Angers, France, February 2004.
Abundance, habitat selection and home ranges of grey duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia) in the Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe. Bowkett, A.E. and Plowman, A.B.
2nd International Symposium on Duiker and Dwarf Antelope in Africa, Zanzibar, February 2004.
Research in captivity: comparative nutrition of common and rare duikers. Plowman A.B.
1st International Symposium on Duiker and Dwarf Antelope in Africa, Zimbabwe, February 2001.
Are duikers browsers? Plowman, A.B.
Workshop on Duiker Husbandry and Nutrition. Wildlife Conservation Society, St Catherines Island, 2000
Books and Edited Book Sections
Educational Booklets
Living with predators: a farmer’s guide.
Nyoni, W. & Williams, S.T. 2008. Marwell Zimbabwe Trust, Bulawayo. [Also available in chiShona and iSiNdebele]
Living with cheetahs: projects for upper primary school children. A teacher’s manual.
Purchase, G. & Peek, B. 2003. ACTION publishers, Harare.
How do you monitor rare and elusive mammals? Counting duikers in Kenya, Tanzania and Zimbabwe.
Bowkett, A.E., Lunt, N., Rovero, F., & Plowman, A.B. 2006. Animals, Zoos and Conservation (eds E. Zgrabczynksa, P. Cwiertnia & J. Ziomek), Zoological Gardens, Poznan, Poland, pp. 21-28.
Ecology and conservation of mini-antelope.
Plowman A. B. (ed). 2003. Proceedings of an International Symposium on Duiker and Dwarf Antelope in Africa. Filander Verlag, Fürth.
Research in captivity: comparative nutrition of common and rare duikers.
Plowman A.B. 2003. Ecology and Conservation of Mini-antelope: Proceedings of an International Symposium on Duiker and Dwarf Antelope in Africa. Plowman, A.B. (ed.), Filander Verlag, Fürth.
Postgraduate Theses (unpublished)
Herbivores
Determinants of feeding patch selection by large grazers in Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe. Chesonis, T.N. 2016.
Centre for Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Environmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton.
Environmental drivers of herbivore distribution in Matopos Hills, Zimbabwe. Phillips, A. 2016.
Centre for Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Environmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton.
Relationship between abundance of herbivores and human impacts on vegetation (fire and livestock).
Franceschin, A. 2015. Centre for Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Environmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton.
Habitat use monitoring of the white rhino population in the Hazelside section of Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe. Faisal, A. 2015. Centre for Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Environmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton.
The role of small antelope in ecosystem functioning in the Matobo Hills, Zimbabwe.
Lunt, N. 2011. Dept. Zoology & Entomology, Rhodes University, Grahamstown.
Behavioural responses and associated communication of three species of duikers when confronted with foreign scent-marks.
Couturier, A. 2007. Conservation Biology, Dept. Biological Sciences, University of Plymouth.
Can rumination behaviour be manipulated for the benefit of welfare of captive exotic ruminants: duikers as a case study?
Houghton, G. 2005. Dept. Biological Sciences, University of Plymouth.
Niche separation and feeding strategies of two species of native Zimbabwean duiker, Sylvicapra grimmia and Cephalophus monticola.
Plumb, A. 2002. University of Southampton.
Carnivore
The impact of land reform in Zimbabwe on the conservation of cheetahs and other large carnivores.
Williams, S.T. 2012. Durham University.
Undergraduate Reports & Dissertations
Rhino
Influence of vegetation cover and composition on habitat selection by white rhino (Ceratotherium simum) in Matopos National Park. Seema, S. 2015.
BSc(Hons) Forest Resources and Wildlife Management, Dept. Forest Resources and Wildlife Management
National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo.
Carnivore
Abundance of brown hyaena (Parahyaena brunnea) along temporal and spatial gradients in Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe.
Chakwana, A. 2019. BSc(Hons) Wildlife and Rangeland Management, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura.
A survey of the presence and distribution of mesocarnivores in the Matobo Hills.
Mudzindiko, T.T. 2014. BSc(Hons) Wildlife and Safari Management, Chinhoyi University of Technology, Chinhoyi.
Comparing the use of interviews and spoor count in estimating cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) abundance in Save Valley Conservancy, Zimbabwe.
Mavhurere, I. 2009. BSc(Hons) Wildlife and Rangeland Management, Dept. of Environmental Science, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura.
A field-assessment of cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) distribution and abundance in the communal areas of Gwanda and Insiza districts of Matabeleland South Province.
Joseph, V. 2008. BSc(Hons) Wildlife and Rangeland Management, Dept. of Environmental Science, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura.
Trends in cheetah numbers in Maramani (Beitbridge District), southern Zimbabwe: a field interview study.
Dube, M.D.M. 2007.Marwell Zimbabwe Trust, Bulawayo.
Human factors influencing the distribution of the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) and other large predators in two areas of southern Zimbabwe.
Nyemba, T. 2007. BSc(Hons) Wildlife and Rangeland Management, Dept. of Environmental Science, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura.
A field assessment of cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) status and conflict situation in resettlement areas surrounding the Bubiana Conservancy in Gwanda District (Matebeleland South Province).
Chihona, S. 2006. BSc(Hons) Wildlife and Rangeland Management, Dept. of Environmental Science, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura.
Factors influencing the status and distribution of the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) in Jonsyl resettlement area Matabeleland South, Zimbabwe.
Dabengwa, A.N. 2005. Marwell Zimbabwe Trust, Bulawayo.
A survey of densities of domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) in five different land-use types of Bulilima and Mangwe districts of Zimbabwe: Possible implications for cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) survival.
Ncube, H. 2004. Marwell Zimbabwe Trust, Bulawayo.
A comparison of livestock management techniques in relation to predation: a study carried out in Bulilimamangwe district.
Dube, M. 2002. BSc(Hons) Natural Resources and Agriculture, Dept. Livestock and Wildlife Management, Midlands State University, Gweru.
The effects of changes in land-use on the status and distribution of cheetah in Central Estates: a field-interview survey.
Muzaba, N. 2002. BSc(Hons) Wildlife and Rangeland Management, Dept. of Environmental Science, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura.
Comparison of human factors affecting cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) survival in an old communal land and a newly resettled area in Zaka District: a field interview survey.
Vhurumuku, G. 2002. BSc(Hons) Wildlife and Rangeland Management, Dept. of Environmental Science, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura.
Herbivore
Population estimates and occupancy of bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus) in Matobo National Park (Whovi section), Zimbabwe.
Lunga, N. 2021. BSc (Hons) Animal Science and Rangeland Management, Lupane State University, Lupane.
Estimating plains zebra (Equus quagga) population size using the mark-recapture method in Matobo National Park.
Ncube, A.T. 2020. BSc (Hons) Animal Science and Rangeland Management, Lupane State University, Lupane.
Space use by free-ranging duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia) at Dambari Field Station.
Gbenou, N.N.A. 2018. BSc (Hons) Animal Science and Rangeland Management, Lupane State University, Lupane.
The influence of browse nutritive value on diet selection by the common duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia).
Tokwe, L. 2017. BSc (Hons) Animal Science and Rangeland Management, Lupane State University, Lupane.
A comparison of the browse preferences of blue (Philantomba monticola) and red (Cephalophus natalensis) duikers in relation to plant nutrient content.
Vhera, V. 2014. BSc(Hons), Wildlife and Rangeland Management, Dept. of Environmental Science, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura.
The effect of browse distribution on foraging behaviour of blue duikers (Philantomba monticola).
Maforimbo, C. 2013. BSc(Hons) Animal Science and Wildlife Management, Lupane State University, Bulawayo.
The effect of duiker mouth morphology on cropping rates of spiny plants. A comparison between blue duiker (Philantomba monticola) and common duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia).
Muzama, F. 2013. BSc(Hons) Wildlife and Rangeland Management. Dept. Environmental Science, Bindura University, Bindura.
The significance of tail flicking behaviour in the blue duiker Philantomba monticola.
Dzinotizei, Z. 2012. BSc(Hons) Forest Resources and Wildlife Management, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo.
Influence of plant spinescence on instantaneous intake rates of blue duikers in captivity.
Musariri, T. 2012. BSc(Hons), Dept. Environmental Science, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura.
Factors affecting germination in the marula (Sclerocarya birrea).
Mabonga, C. 2010. BSc(Hons) Forest Resources and Wildlife Management, Dept. Forest Resources and Wildlife Management, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo.
Responses of blue duikers (Philantomba monticola) to dung from unfamiliar conspecifics.
Nyabasa, R. 2009. BSc(Hons) Wildlife and Rangeland Management, Dept. of Environmental Science, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura.
A comparison of scent marking behaviour in three duiker species: grey (Sylvicapra grimmia), blue (Philantomba monticola) and red duiker (Cephalophus natalensis).
Msimanga, B. 2007. BSc(Hons) Forest Resources and Wildlife Management, Dept. Forest Resources and Wildlife Management, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo.
The effects of diet, sex and age on defecation rates and amount of dung produced per unit time in grey duikers (Sylvicapra grimmia) and blue duikers (Philantomba monticola).
Mhlanga, M.R. 2006. BSc(Hons) Natural Resources and Agriculture, Dept. Livestock and Wildlife Management, Midlands State University, Gweru.
The quantities of bushmeat and other wild foods being utilized in resettlement areas surrounding Bubiana Conservancy, West Nicholson.
Mugari, E. 2006. BSc(Hons) Natural Resources and Agriculture, Dept. Livestock and Wildlife Management, Midlands State University, Gweru.
Role of faecal deposits in small antelope social behaviour.
Chiradza, T.M. 2005. BSc(Hons) Natural Resources and Agriculture, Dept. Livestock and Wildlife Management, Midlands State University, Gweru.
The availability and consumption of bushmeat in markets and food outlets in rural and urban areas.
Muvengwi, J. 2004. BSc(Hons) Wildlife and Rangeland Management, Dept. of Environmental Science, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura.
Society, education and biodiversity
The relationship between environmental factors and terrestrial invertebrate species composition, diversity and abundance in Matobo Hills, Zimbabwe.
Ncube, I. 2020. BSc(Hons) Animal Science and Rangeland Management, Lupane State University, Lupane.
Abundance, species richness and diversity of above-ground macroinvertebrates in Lantana camara and Vachellia woodlands in a savanna ecosystem.
Chiwandika, R. 2019. BSc(Hons) Wildlife and Rangeland Management, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura.
Seasonal variation in termite species diversity in communal areas of the Matobo Hills.
Muhloro, T. 2015. BSc(Hons) Wildlife and Rangeland Management, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura.
Diversity and habitat preference of small-sized mammals at Dambari Field Station.
Chimutanda, K. 2014. BSc(Hons) Wildlife and Rangeland Management, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura.
Impact of citizen science on student knowledge and attitude towards biodiversity monitoring and conservation.
Tichagwa, T. 2014. BSc(Hons), Wildlife and Rangeland Management, Department of Environmental Science, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura.
Lantana camara: Distribution, seed bank dynamics and the role of smoke in seedling emergence at Dambari Field Station.
Dzamara, B.O. 2012. B. Env. Sci. (Hons), Department of Environmental Sciences, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura.
An investigation into totems in Siphezini Village, Worringham.
Nxumalo, B. 2010. BSc(Hons), Department of Forest Resources and Wildlife Management, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo.
An investigation into the relationship between Indigenous Ecological Knowledge Systems (IEKS) and Biodiversity Conservation: A case of Matobo District.
Sithole, N. 2009. BSc(Hons) Environmental Science and Health, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo.
The influence of knowledge on attitudes towards cheetah in south-western Zimbabwe: possible benefits of environmental education.
Ndiweni, C. 2008. BSc(Hons) Forest Resources and Wildlife Management, Dept. Forest Resources and Wildlife Management, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo.
Control of soil erosion at Dambari Field Station, Zimbabwe.
Moyo, P. 2004. BSc(Hons) Forest Resources and Wildlife Management, Dept. Forest Resources and Wildlife Management, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo.