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.