This building block establishes standardized flight parameters for effective crocodilian monitoring
Crocodiles can be closely approached (.10 m altitude) and consumer-grade drones do not elicit flight responses in West African large mammals and birds at altitudes of 40–60 m. Altitude and other flight parameters did not affect detectability, because high-resolution photos allowed accurate counting. Observer experience, field conditions (e.g. wind, sun reflection), and site characteristics (e.g. vegetation, homogeneity) all significantly affected detectability. Drone-based crocodylian surveys should be implemented from 40 m altitude in the first third of the day. Drone surveys provide advantages over traditional methods, including precise size estimation, less disturbance, and the ability to cover greater and more remote areas. Drone survey photos allow for repeatable and quantifiable habitat assessments, detection of encroachment and other illegal activities, and leave a permanent record. Overall,dronesofferavaluableandcost-effectivealternative forsurveyingcrocodylianpopulationswith compelling secondary benefits, although they may not be suitable in all cases and for all species
Rangeland team member speaks at a community meeting
Emmily Tunuka/African People & Wildlife
Man listens to discussion at community rangeland meeting
Emmily Tunuka/African People & Wildlife
In all of our endeavors, we deploy our signature ACTIVE™ (Access, Connect, Team, Implement, Verify, Evolve) Community Engagement approach. Guided by this community-driven and adaptive approach, we prioritize a deep, holistic understanding of the political, economic, ecological, and cultural factors that shape how each community interacts with and manages its natural resources. This ensures that our conservation efforts are tailored to the specific needs and aspirations of the community, creating a strong foundation for sustainable, inclusive, and innovative solutions. We begin with preparatory activities, including a pastoral livelihoods and rangeland management dialogue, which fosters open communication and builds trust. Focusing on understanding the unique governance structures and rangeland management practices already in place, we conduct a participatory mapping exercise to identify critical pastures used by the community and wildlife alike. A plot ID – coded with both indigenous and scientific names – is designated for each pasture and baseline quality data are collected using a customized Survey123 form for site selection and assessment. The data include both ecological metrics (e.g., grass height, soil type) and social factors (e.g., cultural significance, accessibility).
It is necessary to have an established relationship of mutual trust with the community and a thorough understanding of existing governance structures before engaging in monitoring efforts. APW seeks to recognize how different governance structures function and which decisions are made by which governing bodies. For instance, in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, traditional leaders make pasture management decisions through the Ilaigwanak structure, an informal council of respected elders who serve as advisors and decision makers in community affairs, while the village government often focuses more on political decision-making. As is customary in this region, pastoralists have tremendous respect for the traditional leadership and their decisions. Abiding by decisions made by the Ilaigwanak is deeply rooted in the local culture and way of life. Support from traditional leaders is critical for the uptake and implementation of data-driven rangeland management decisions.
Prior to making any effort to effect change, APW clarifies the decision-making process and seeks inclusive participation for project implementation. Conducting stakeholder analyses is key in contextualizing natural resource management efforts. This requires flexibility, adjusting as needed to ensure data are culturally and ecologically relevant and in the service of the community. To foster support and participation from traditional leaders, APW advises the leadership on the use of routine monitoring data.
In terms of overall architectural appearance, the courtyard enclosed layout is retained, with a focus on creating courtyard space. The building color is mainly green and gray, inheriting traditional charm. At the same time, simplify the complex decoration of traditional architecture and use modern and simple lines. The main structure of the building continues the traditional wooden structure form and adopts mortise and tenon technology to ensure the integrity of the structure. Using rough stones and strip stones as the foundation, effective moisture-proof and anti-corrosion measures are achieved to ensure the durability and applicability of the building. In terms of materials, in addition to traditional wood and bricks, new materials such as metal and glass are also combined to enhance living comfort and quality. Color matching adds flexibility to traditional colors, creating a warm and fashionable atmosphere. The internal space layout is more in line with modern living needs, with open living rooms, dining rooms, etc., combining traditional artistic conception with modern functions.
