May 3, 2021
Abyssinian Roller in Mole National Park, Ghana.
IBCP is delighted to announce the donation of 200 brochures identifying birds and mammals of Mole National Park, Ghana, for use in guiding and educating visitors and researchers. Scientific research has documented extensive declines of species and natural areas around the world, and protected areas constitute a longstanding strategy for nature conservation. The Ghana Wildlife Division, for example, had the foresight to protect Ghana’s unique natural heritage through their protected area system and active anti-poaching patrols, which ensure the persistence of many wildlife species that have been extirpated in most of their historic ranges. Many endangered and vulnerable species such as vultures, other raptors, and hornbills persist predominantly in protected areas, as do many range-restricted and wintering migratory birds. Targeted research within and around protected areas, such as Mole National Park, is essential to inform management decisions, including where best to focus limited funding to protect biodiversity.
Cover of Mole National Park Bird Brochure.
IBCP Ghana Partner Nat Annorbah, a faculty member at Ghana’s University of Environment and Sustainable Development, delivered the brochures, which were created by IBCP Rose Fellow Kristen Rosamond with photographs taken by Grzegorz Walczak, Lars Holbech, Nico Arcilla, Sandra Goded, and others, most of which were taken during IBCP’s 2020 research visit to Mole National Park. During that time, discussion with Mole National Park Manager Ali Mahama inspired the decision to create these brochures. “Common Birds of Mole National Park” includes photographs of 50 species organized into 31 groups. “Common Mammals of Mole National Park” features photographs of 20 species organized into 17 groups and also includes information on major threats to these animals. Bird and mammal populations and communities make valuable indicators of protected area conservation effectiveness and also serve as excellent “ambassadors for biodiversity.” We hope that these brochures will aid in ongoing research, recognition, and protection of Mole’s unique and amazing wildlife.
Cover of Mole National Parl Mammal Brochure.
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