Hunting in Woleu-Ntem, Gabon: Seasons, Laws and Legislation, Clubs, Geography of Gabon for Hunters

Geographical and Natural Features of Woleu-Ntem Woleu-Ntem, Gabon's northernmost province, spans approximately 38,465 km² and is predominantly covered by equatorial forests. The terrain is hilly, with elevations ranging from 287 meters in the south to peaks like Minkébé Mountain at 937 meters. The province hosts two national parks: Minkébé and Crystal Mountains (Monts de Cristal), both renowned for their rich biodiversity, including a high density of elephants and numerous primate species. Hunters and Demographics in Gabon As of the 2013 census, Woleu-Ntem had a population of approximately 154,986. While specific data on the number of hunters is not readily available, hunting remains a traditional practice among local communities, serving both subsistence and cultural purposes. Hunting Practices of Woleu-Ntem Region Hunting methods in Woleu-Ntem 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. Dogs: Used during gun hunts to flush out prey. 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. Game Species and Hunting Aspects 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 in Woleu-Ntem 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 Woleu-Ntem 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 of the Region 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 in Woleu-Ntem Hunting holds cultural significance in Woleu-Ntem 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 the Region 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. Woleu-Ntem is home to several national parks, including Minkébé and Crystal Mountains, which are rich in biodiversity and offer opportunities for eco-tourism and wildlife observation.