Abstract:
The Narok District has undergone rapid changes in land use patterns from nomadic
pastoralism to a sedentary and farming lifestyle. In this study we describe wildlife and
livestock numbers and past and present land-use patterns in three group ranches from
1975 to 1997. The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of land-use changes on
herbivore populations. Research methods included observation and interpretation of
satellite imageries and aerial photographs, field checks, participant observation and
secondary data. Results indicate that human settlement areas have increased signifi-
cantly (x 2 = 11.475, 3 df, p=0.001), while natural vegetation area has decreased insig-
nificantly (x 2 = 0.2, 3 df, p = 0.777) between 1975 and 1997. Trend analysis indicated an
increase in livestock numbers (601100 + 843 year; r 2 = 0.127; P=0.018), a decrease in
wildlife numbers (953400-632 year; r 2 = 0.272; P = 0.036) and an overall increase in
large herbivore numbers (155000+211 year; r 2 = 0.150; P=0.043). The information
gained in this study can be used in the process of zoning the dispersal areas for different
land uses. Also, if supported by a further study it can establish the optimum sustainable
land use(s) around Masai Mara Reserve, that can assure the coexistence of man and
wildlife.