THE Limpopo National Park in Mozambique has successfully completed a census in cooperation with South African-based 4x4 Mega World, Transfrontier Parks Destinations and the Peace Parks Foundation (PPF).
Off-road enthusiasts were encouraged to take on the adventure and help with an animal, plant and insect census in the park earlier this year. Volunteers were assigned zones in the park that were scoured for any signs of life. The census was seen as necessary as the park has experienced dwindling animal life after civil war gripped the country.
Wildlife manager for the park, Billy Swanepoel, said that the numbers of animals has definitely increased in recent years and the contribution of time and effort by the volunteers has provided valuable research for the park.
Although exact animal numbers could not be derived from the census, the park now has a clear indication of what animals are roaming certain areas. The census even revealed the discovery of a new tree species in the park which is currently being genetically tested.
Craig Beech, information systems manager PPF, said that the reasoning behind the 4x4 challenge was to allow the public to help collect data on the park. This data can now be used for various initiatives including the determination of where new infrastructure should be placed.
PPF also hopes to use the information to marry new technology with the park by creating maps on GPS for best animal sighting spots among others.
Ceo 4x4 Mega World, Deon Venter, said that as a result the company has changed its attitude towards off-road adventure and has adopted a more environmental approach. As a result, the company has decided to invest more money into eco-initiatives.
