Hunting in Haut-Ogooué, Gabon: Clubs and Laws, Legislation and Seasons, All the Hunting Aspects of Gabon

Natural Features in Gabon and Haut-Ogooué Region Haut-Ogooué, located in southeastern Gabon, encompasses diverse landscapes, including tropical rainforests, savannas, and the Batéké Plateau. The Batéké Plateau National Park, established in 2002, spans over 2,034 km² and is characterized by forest-savanna mosaics, providing habitats for various wildlife species. Demographic Aspects of Haut-Ogooué While specific data on the number of hunters in Haut-Ogooué is limited, hunting remains a significant activity among rural communities. A study conducted in seven villages within the province reported that 27.9% of residents owned firearms, indicating a substantial involvement in hunting practices. Hunting Traditions in Gabon Local hunters employ various techniques, including: Firearms: Predominantly 12-gauge shotguns, used by 86.1% of hunters. Nets: Traditional nets, arranged in semicircular fences of 250-300 meters, managed by groups of hunters. Traps: Including neck snares, foot snares, and pitfall traps, targeting species like antelopes and porcupines. Hunting occurs both during the day and at night, with nocturnal hunts facilitated by electric torches. The variety of the Game Species The region hosts a variety of game species, including: Blue duiker (Philantomba monticola) Brush-tailed porcupine (Atherurus africanus) Red river hog (Potamochoerus porcus) Bay duiker (Cephalophus dorsalis) Water chevrotain (Hyemoschus aquaticus) Various primates and small carnivores Notably, blue duikers and brush-tailed porcupines constitute over half of the hunting off-take in the region. Hunting Seasons and Natural Aspects Hunting activities intensify during the long dry season, from August to October, coinciding with increased accessibility and the presence of non-resident hunters. Hunting Organizations and Clubs While specific hunting clubs in Haut-Ogooué are not well-documented, community-based management initiatives are emerging in Gabon. These efforts aim to establish officially recognized community forests managed by hunter associations, promoting sustainable hunting practices. Hunting Legislation and Prohibitions Gabonese law regulates hunting through the Forest Code (Law No. 16/01), which includes: Prohibition of night hunting and the use of cable snares. Ban on hunting during the closed season (October 1 to June 30). Protection of certain species, such as the red river hog, which is fully protected despite its prevalence in bushmeat markets. Enforcement challenges persist, with a significant portion of hunting occurring illegally due to economic and subsistence pressures. Cultural Traditions and Hunting Customs Hunting holds cultural significance in Haut-Ogooué, with traditional practices passed down through generations. Communal hunts and the use of traditional weapons, such as bows and traps, are part of the region's heritage. These practices are intertwined with social structures and rituals, reflecting the deep-rooted connection between communities and the natural environment. Additional Facts about the Region Haut-Ogooué is home to the Batéké Plateau National Park, which harbors a rich biodiversity and was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List in 2005. A study in the province recorded that 56% of hunted animals were consumed locally, while the remainder was sold, highlighting the economic importance of bushmeat.