Impacts of Surface Water and Vegetation Cover Contamination from Bird and Locust Hunting in the Sahelian Region: Ecological Damage and Economic Challenge

Abstract

The Sahelian zone, inherently fragile, is increasingly affected by anthropogenic activities such as the intensive hunting of birds and locusts, often involving the widespread use of chemical products. This study analyzes the direct and indirect impacts of these practices on surface water quality and vegetation cover. Based on field surveys, physico-chemical analyses of water samples, and observations of local flora, the results reveal that this seasonal activity has led, according to our data, to an average loss of 70% of local woody cover in hunting areas over a five-year period, particularly in the Mayo-Kani region (Cameroon). Field investigations also indicate a 35% decline in avian diversity over ten years in zones heavily exposed to chemical hunting campaigns. Captured animals are sold fresh, dried, or smoked in local markets (up to 250 FCFA per bundle of locusts). The cost of lost ecosystem services (pollination, natural fertilization, pest regulation) is estimated at 69,941.8 FCFA/ha/year, which largely offsets the economic gains from hunting. The findings thus call for a revision of pest wildlife management strategies in the Sahel, towards a more integrated and sustainable approach..

Keywords: Hunting, Locusts, Birds, Contamination, Surface water, Vegetation cover, Sahelian zone, Ecology, Rural economy