BSc Forestry (Year 2) Field Practical Training at Tarangire National Park

The field practical training gave second-year students hands-on experience in wildlife assessment and vegetation analysis within Vachellia–Commiphora woodlands, where they applied standard ecological survey techniques and recorded several observations relevant to wildlife management and habitat conservation.

Estimating wildlife populations

Students conducted wildlife population density estimation using both walking line transects and vehicle-based road transects. These methods enabled systematic recording of species presence, abundance and spatial distribution. Students also learnt to identify animals from spoor and footprints, which improves accuracy in detecting cryptic or nocturnal species.

Habitat use and woodland ecology

Analysis of wildlife distribution across vegetation types showed clear patterns of habitat use, reflecting differences in forage availability and structural cover. Training sessions also emphasised the ecological characteristics of Vachellia–Commiphora woodlands, including their species composition, structural heterogeneity and role as key habitats for large mammals.

A warning sign for baobabs

A notable concern recorded during the exercise was the high incidence of damaged old baobab trees. Many showed severe structural deterioration, and no regenerating seedlings or saplings were observed. Based on current conditions, several trees are likely to die within the next decade, pointing to a significant risk of local baobab extinction if regeneration failure persists.

Acknowledgements

The training was conducted under the guidance of academic staff from the Department of Ecosystems and Conservation and the Department of Wildlife Management at the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Tourism. The supervisory team, Prof. Charles Kilawe, Dr. Jackline Kajembe, Mr. Thadei Rugambwa and Ms. Maureen Daffa, provided continuous technical support and field mentorship. We also thank the management of Tarangire National Park for logistical support, field access and collaboration throughout the training.