Hunting in Ogooué-Ivindo, Gabon: Geography and Hunting Seasons, Laws and Legislation, Hunting Communities in Gabon

Natural Features of Gabon Region Ogooué-Ivindo, located in northeastern Gabon, spans approximately 46,075 km², making it the country's largest and most sparsely populated province. The region is characterized by vast tropical rainforests, intersected by the Ogooué and Ivindo rivers. Notable geographical features include Mont Bengoué, Gabon's highest peak at 1,070 meters. The province is home to Ivindo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its biodiversity, including species such as forest elephants, gorillas, and sitatungas. Demographics of Ogooué-Ivindo As per the 2013 census, Ogooué-Ivindo had a population of approximately 63,293. The region is inhabited by various ethnic groups, including the Fang, Kota, and Kwele. While specific data on the number of hunters is not readily available, hunting remains a traditional practice among these communities, serving both subsistence and cultural purposes. Hunting Practices in Gabon Hunting methods in Ogooué-Ivindo include: Firearms: Primarily 12-gauge shotguns are used for hunting medium to large game. Traps and Snares: Utilized for capturing smaller animals such as rodents and duikers. Nets: Employed in group hunting to capture multiple animals simultaneously. Traditional Weapons: Bows, arrows, and spears are still used, particularly in remote areas. Hunting is conducted both during the day and at night, with nocturnal hunts facilitated by the use of flashlights or torches. Animals in Ogooué-Ivindo Region The province hosts a variety of game species, including: Blue duiker (Philantomba monticola) Red river hog (Potamochoerus porcus) Brush-tailed porcupine (Atherurus africanus) Bay duiker (Cephalophus dorsalis) Water chevrotain (Hyemoschus aquaticus) Various primates and small carnivores These species are commonly hunted for subsistence and local trade. Hunting Seasons and Prohibitions In Gabon, the official hunting season typically runs from March 16 to September 14. Hunting is prohibited during the breeding season, from September 15 to March 15, to allow wildlife populations to replenish. However, enforcement of these regulations can be challenging, and hunting may occur outside the designated seasons. Hunting Organizations and Clubs While there are no widely known hunting clubs specific to Ogooué-Ivindo Province, 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 and conservation awareness. Hunting Legislation in the Regions 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 (September 15 to March 15). 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 other Customs Hunting holds cultural significance in Ogooué-Ivindo Province, with traditional practices passed down through generations. Communal hunts and the use of traditional weapons 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. Interesting Facts about Ogooué-Ivindo Ogooué-Ivindo is home to the Ipassa Research Station, an Important Bird Area near Makokou, where 190 species of bird restricted to the Guinea-Congo Forest biome have been recorded. The province's diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, and rivers, provide habitats for a wide range of wildlife species, making it a significant area for both hunting and conservation efforts.