Mpala Research Centre, Kenya

In the first study of its kind, we are electronically tracking the common hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) to study its habitat use and movement behavior. The project, based in the Ewaso N’giro River basin in the Laikipia District of Kenya, assesses hippopotamus ecology, movement, and conservation. Classified as vulnerable by the IUCN, the hippo has a large impact on aquatic and adjacent terrestrial systems. With further population declines expected from hunting, habitat loss due to the conversion of grazing lands to farmland, and direct conflict with people, this study hopes to inform land-use decisions to reduce these conflicts.

Group member and photo credits: Tristan Nuñez