Population status and behavioural ecology of grivet monkeys (<i>Chlorocebus aethiops</i>) in the main campus of Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia

Abstract

Population status and behavioral ecology of grivet monkeys (Chlorocebus aethiops) were studied to determine if interventions are necessary to reduce conflict between the residents of Bahir Dar University main campus and the grivet monkeys. Structured questionnaire was administered to residents to understand their opinion on the overall ecological impact of grivet monkeys in the campus. Results from the present study were compared to 2008/2009 assessments of the grivet’s population status and behavioral ecology to investigate if there was any significant change in the population or behavioral ecology of the species. The grivet monkey population has grown to around 80. Feeding habits of grivets have also changed since 2009 to increase dependence on human foods and garbage. Actions and responses of local students and residents toward grivet monkeys indicate that they are to be educated on the ecological benefits of grivets. Further research is necessary to determine the degree of impact of grivets on the prevalence of mosquito and other insect populations, and the spread of invasive plant species.

Keywords/phrases: Behavioural ecology, Feeding habits, Grivet monkeys, Population status