11. The Status of Three Species of Turacos in the Kakum Conservation Area in the Central Region, Ghana

Abstract

The encounter rates and relative abundance of three species of turacos, namely great blue (Corythaeola cristata), green (Tauraco persa) and yellow-billed (Tauraco macrorynchus) were studied in tropical rainforest in the Kakum Conservation Area (KCA) in the Central Region of Ghana between August 2005 and June 2006. The transect count method was employed in recording all turaco contacts. Turaco numbers and encounter rates varied among the four study sites. Both green and yellow-billed turacos were relatively common in the study area. Great blue turacos were, however, very few in the KCA and, therefore, need some protective and conservation attention. Turacos were restricted to the more pristine parts of the KCA than in secondary forest, where the encounter rates were also relatively lower (0 and 2.17 individuals/h in primary and secondary forests, respectively). The relative abundance and encounter rates of turaco species also varied between the seasons of the year, with larger numbers being encountered in the major rainy season (June-July). The most suitable areas for turaco-bird watching have been identified to be in the primary forests, especially near Antwikwaa camps, and a comprehensive study of the ecology of turacos in the KCA to facilitate their conservation has also been suggested