Data Collection
Data was obtained throughout the dry season and the wet season. Mammal
surveys were conducted twice daily ( 6:00 to 10:00 morning, and 15:00 to
18:00 afternoon, when most species are active) (Woldegeorgis and Wube,
2012; Belete & Melese, 2016 ). In addition, during the investigation
period, each transect line was scanned eight times. A researcher and
four trained data collectors conducted the transect visits. To avoid
disturbance of mammalian species, the information collectors walked
silently along each transect with the wind at a gentle speed
(Norton-Griffiths, 1978). Data were gathered through direct and indirect
methods. The indirect methods include fecal droppings, feed marks,
tracks, burrows, territorial markings, backbone sound, and different
evidence (Kingdon, 2015; Rabira et al ., 2015). To avoid
recounting of the same sign during subsequent monthly sampling periods,
only the counted signs by data collectors and the researcher were marked
at a place. To reduce bias, data collectors moved along the
transects.When the animals are sighted, date, time, place type, animal
name, individual number for each species, and GPS location were recorded
(Girma et al ., 2012; Rabira et al ., 2015; Diriba et
al ., 2020). Animals were counted using naked eyes and with the support
of binoculars. A field guide book was used to identify species of
mammals whenever needed (Kingdong, 2015). For each transect, data from
four duplicate surveys for each season were compiled and analyzed
(Diriba et al ., 2020; Girma & Worku, 2020). Throughout the data
collection, COVID 19 prevention methods such as social isolation and
oral masks were used.