Waterbird census of coastal and Oiseaux des zones humides côtières du Cameroun et du fleuve Sanaga January -Marc h 2007, WIWO report 83

by Gordon Ajonina, Chi Napoleon, Roger Skeen and Jaap van der Waarde Edited by Jaap J. van der Waarde Front cover

Top: Royal Tern ( Sterna maxima) and Lesser Black-backed Gull ( Larus fuscus) , Ndian Basin (JvdW) En haute: Sterne royale (Sterna maxima) et Goéland brun (Larus fuscus), Ndian Basin (JvdW)

Bottom left: Grey ( cinerea) , Sanaga River (JvdW) En bas à gauche: Glaréole grise (Glareola cinerea), la fleuve Sanaga (JvdW)

Bottom middle: Great White Pelican ( Pelecanus onocrotalus) , Ndian Basin (JvdW) En bas, centre: Pélican blanc (Pelecanus onocrotalus), Ndian Basin (JvdW)

Bottom right: African Skimmer ( Rynchops flavirostris) , Sanaga River (PH) En bas, à droite : Bec-en-ciseau d'Afrique (Rynchops flavirostris), la fleuve Sanaga (PH)

This report can be ordered from WIWO: www.wiwo-international.org.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and

Sanaga river

January-March 2007

Oiseaux des zones humides côtières du Cameroun et du fleuve Sanaga

Janvier-Mars 2007 by Gordon Ajonina, Chi Napoleon, Roger Skeen and Jaap van der Waarde

Edited by Jaap J. van der Waarde

WIWO report Nr. 83 2007

Foundation Working Group International Wader and Waterfowl Research (WIWO) Rijksstraatweg 178 6573 DG BEEK-UBBERGEN The Netherlands

Published by: Foundation Working Group International Wader and Waterfowl Research (WIWO), The Netherlands. Partners: Watershed Task Group (WTG), Wildlife Fund for Nature Cameroon (WWF), Cameroon Wildlife Conservation Society (CWCS), Cameroon Biodiversity Conservation Society (CBCS) and Jaap van der Waarde. Project participants: Gordon Ajonina, Taku Awa II, Innocent Ndong Bass, Chi Napoleon, Niba Develine, Paul Higson, Ngalim Julliet, Nasina Efanja Philip, Usongo Robert, Roger Skeen, Luther Tchakep and Jaap van der Waarde. Financial support: Koop Cameroun, Pecten Cameroun and Wetlands International. Transport and logistics: CWCS, Foyer du Marin, Jaap van der Waarde Lay-out: Jaap van der Waarde Photography: Jaap van der Waarde ( JvdW ), Paul Higson ( PH ) and WTG ( WTG ) Printing: Drukkerij Dione, Culemborg, The Netherlands

Published by stichting WIWO, Beek-Ubbergen, 2007.

© Stichting WIWO, Beek-Ubbergen. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any forms or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopied, recorded or otherwise used without the prior permission of the copyright owner.

Citation

For citation purposes refer to the whole report: Van der Waarde. J.J. (Ed). 2007. Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga river, January-March 2007. WIWO-report nr 83. Beek-Ubbergen. For citations to chapters of the report: Ajonina, G., I. Ayissi and R. Mbakwa. 2007. Sanaga river waterfowl monitoring 1999-2006. In: Van der Waarde. J.J. (Ed). 2007. Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga river, January-March 2007. WIWO-report nr 83. Beek-Ubbergen. CONTENTS

1. SUMMARY ...... 1 1.1 Summary ...... 1 1.2 Summaire ...... 6 2. INTRODUCTION ...... 12 2.1 Waterbird counts on the coast of Cameroon ...... 13 2.2 Background of the project ...... 13 2.3 Aims of the project ...... 15 2.4 International co-operation ...... 15 2.5 Lay-out of the report ...... 16 2.6 Acknowledgements ...... 16 3. COASTAL WETLANDS AND HABITATS OF CAMEROON ...... 18 3.1 Cameroon, a country profile ...... 18 3.2 Description of the Cameroonian coastal wetlands...... 21 3.2 Description of the Cameroonian coastal wetlands...... 22 3.3 Human use of the wetlands ...... 25 4. METHODS ...... 26 4.1 Introduction ...... 26 4.2 Counting methods ...... 28 4.3 Completeness of the counts and interpretation of data...... 33 5. COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON ...... 37 5.1 Description per species group ...... 37 5.1.1 Cormorants to Ibises...... 37 5.1.2 Ducks, rails and finfoots ...... 38 5.1.3 Waders ...... 39 5.1.4 Gulls, Terns and African Skimmer ...... 40 5.1.5 Total waterbirds ...... 41 5.2 Species accounts ...... 42 5.2 Species accounts ...... 43 5.2.1 Cormorants to Ibises...... 43 5.2.2 Ducks, rails and finfoots ...... 49 5.2.3 Waders ...... 51 5.2.4 Gulls, Terns and African Skimmer ...... 58 6. SANAGA RIVER WATERFOWL MONITORING 1999-2006 ...... 64 6.1. Introduction ...... 64 6.2. Methods ...... 64 6.3. Results and Discussion ...... 666 6.3.1. Waterbirds on the Sanaga River ...... 66 6.3.2. African Skimmer, African open-billed Stork and Grey Pratincole ...... 66 6.3.3. Breeding of African Skimmer and Grey Pratincole ...... 69 6.4. Conclusion and recommendations ...... 70 6.5. Acknowledgements ...... 70 7. FAUNISTICAL VARIA ...... 71 7.1 Avifauna ...... 71 7.2 Mammals ...... 76 7.3 Amphibians and reptiles ...... 76 8. OPPORTUNITIES FOR BIRDING TOURISM ...... 77 8.1 Introduction ...... 77 8.2 Sites for birding tourism ...... 78 8.3 Recommendations birding tourism ...... 80 9. ORNITHOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE OF THE COASTAL WETLANDS IN CAMEROON ...... 81 9.1 Importance for waterbirds in general ...... 81 9.2 Identification of wetlands of international importance ...... 83 9.3 Future of Cameroonian coast wetlands ...... 86 10. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 90 10.1 Conclusions ...... 90 10.2 Recommendations...... 90 11. REFERENCES ...... 92 APPENDICES ...... 96 Appendix 1. Number of observed per count in coastal Cameroon, 2007...... 96 Appendix 2. Waterbird species and numbers recorded in coastal Cameroon, 2007 ...... 102 Appendix 3. Recording probability and upper range factors for species in different habitats ...... 105 Appendix 4. Fraction of habitat coverage of the main waterbird habitats along the Cameroon coast ...... 107 Appendix 5. Monitoring data waterbirds lower Sanaga River 1999-2006 . 108

PREFACE Preface

The Cameroonian coastline consists of highly productive wetlands which attract large number of waterbirds. The Republic of Cameroon strongly supports the wise use and sustainable management of wetlands and their resources and is signatory to a number of conventions including the Ramsar Convention, Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), Convention on Migratory Species (CMS), African Eurasian Water bird Agreement (AEWA) and others. Presently, Cameroon has listed the Waza Logone Floodplain and Barombi Mbo Crater Lake as wetlands of international importance under the Ramsar convention.

This water bird census of the Cameroonian coast was facilitated by the Foundation Working Group for International Wader and Waterfowl Research (WIWO) and supported by several national and international institutions. This indicates that the Cameroon coast plays a very important role in the life cycle of many indigenous African and migratory bird species. According to this report, water bird populations in three sites along the coast already meet criteria for wetlands of international importance according to the Ramsar Convention, meaning that they could eventually be appointed as wetlands of international importance.

The Ministry of Environment and Nature Protection (MINEP) through the Ramsar Focal Point coordinator and Member of the National Wetland Committee has as one of their objectives the proposition of wetlands for recognition as Ramsar sites.

The initiative of a Water bird census of the Cameroon coast is therefore strongly encouraged and appreciated especially as it focuses on the interface between sustainable development needs, the wise use of wetlands and the management of key wetlands for indigenous and migratory birds. This initiative is linked to on-going local, national and regional initiatives for wetland protection. The results are expected to trigger follow-up activities like establishing programmes for monitoring water birds as indicators of wetland changes, and to conduct systematic inventories of wetland ecosystems concerned for eventual consideration as marine protected areas or Ramsar sites.

His Excellency, Mr Hele Pierre

Minister of Environment and Nature Protection (MINEP Cameroon) Republic of Cameroon Yaoundé, June 2007

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River i SUMMARY 1. SUMMARY by Jaap van der Waarde and Chi Napoleon

1.1 Summary

Introduction Between January 12 and 27 and March 4 and 10, a waterbird census was performed of the complete coast of Cameroon, from Campo on the border with to the Sanaga estuary, the Sanaga river, the estuary, the Mount Cameroon coastline to the Ndian basin on the border with . The expedition was facilitated by the Foundation Working Group International Wader and Waterfowl Research (WIWO). The study fits into the research priorities of WIWO in West Africa, to survey new or little known wetlands and coastal areas important for water birds.

The avifauna of the wetlands in the North of Cameroon, notably the southern shores of Lake and the Logone floodplain, is extremely rich and has been subject of substantial ornithological research (e.g. Scholte et al [1999]; Van Wetten & Spierenburg [1998]; Dijkstra et al [2002]; Ganzevles & Bredenbeek [2005]). A limited number of studies has been performed on the Cameroonian coast (e.g. West et al [2002], Ajonina et al [2004]) and no detailed study has been made of the Ndian Basin, a large estuary bordering with Nigeria. At present there is an urgent need to evaluate the importance of the Cameroonian coast for migrating and resident waterbirds, to identify congregation areas that are especially in need of conservation and management and to evaluate whether these sites meet one or more criteria for the Ramsar convention on wetlands of international importance.

The aims of the project were the following: • Perform a complete count of waterbirds of wetlands on the Cameroonian coast, from Campo in the South (border with Equatorial Guinea) to Cape Bakassi in the North (border with Nigeria); • Collect and present ornotihological information from an ongoing water bird monitoring program on the lower Sanaga River; • Determine whether parts of the coast meet the specific Ramsar criteria for waterbirds, especially the criterion for congregations of waterbirds (more than 20,000 waterbirds at the site) and the 1% criterion (more than 1% of the (regional) population of a species at the site); • Train local scientists, technicians and NGOs in bird census techniques; • Strengthen the collaboration between NGOs and governmental bodies in Cameroon working on wetland conservation; • Provide information that can be used by the participating organisations to support formal protection status of any of the visited sites if relevant criteria are met; • Identify opportunities for birding tourism along the coast of Cameroon.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 1 SUMMARY This report should be considered as a preliminary waterbird study of the complete Cameroon coast and its various wetlands.

Acknowledgements The project received financial support from Wetlands International, Koop Cameroun and Pecten Cameroun. Logistic support was provided by CWCS, Foyer du Marin and Jaap van der Waarde. The following institutes and individuals were helpful as well: The ministry of Forestry (MINFOF), the Mayors of Ekondo Titi and Bamusso, Mr Di (Douala), Mr James, Moussa Gilbert, Benjamin Sherkim and Mr Kenneth (all Ekondo Titi), Bernd de Bruijn and Jan van der Winden (WIWO) and Tim Dodman (Wetlands International). Their support and collaboration was greatly appreciated.

Coastal wetlands and habitats of Cameroon The coastal zone of Cameroon is located in the Gulf of Guinea on the west coast of Africa. It stretches for 402 km from the in the Bakassi area bordering Nigeria down to the sandy beaches along primary rainforests bordering Equatorial Guinea. The coastline comprises several drainages of major West and Central African rivers. The border with Nigeria lies in the estuary of the . This area, called the Ndian Basin, is mostly uninhabited and contains extensive and pristine swamps and mudflats. This mangrove area is bordered in the south by the slopes of Mount Cameroon, the highest mountain in West Africa. First, this part of the coast is composed of sandy beaches bordered by forests, but from Idenao south the rocky outcrops from the mountain and old lava flows reach the black sandy beaches. The coastline between Idenao and Limbe is bordered with palm oil plantations. South from Limbe the coastline is formed by the , one of the larger estuaries in West Africa and the entrance to Douala, the biggest port in the region. This estuary is heavily populated and consists of mangroves and mudflats. South of the Wouri estuary the coastline is formed by sandy beaches with mangroves and swamp forest further inland. Some 50 km south, the Sanaga River breaks into the Atlantic Ocean with a small estuary. South of the Sanaga, the Douala-Edea reserve coast line consists of sandy beaches bordering swamp forests, regularly crossed by smaller rivers. At Kribi, the main tarred road reaches the coast again and here a major tourist centre has developed over the last 10-20 years. Sandy beaches stretch from Kribi down to the border with Equatorial Guinea, bordered by secondary lowland forest and occasionally crossed by small streams. This coast is largely uninhabited. The main wetlands on the coast are (from North to South) the Ndian Basin, the Wouri estuary and the Sanaga estuary. Human activities are intense in the Wouri and Sanaga estuaries, mainly fishing and felling of mangroves for smoking of fish. The Ndian Basin is less populated but suffers from the same threats. With the recent settlement of the border dispute between Cameroon and Nigeria about the Bakassi peninsula in the Ndian Basin, oil&gas industries have started exploration for hydrocarbons in this area, most likely leading to increased population of the area and threats of pollution and habitat loss.

Methods During a period of 2.5 weeks in January 2007, the coastline from the Nigerian border to the Sanaga River was surveyed. In another week in March 2007, the coastline from the Sanaga estuary to the border with Equatorial Guinea was surveyed. The study area was surveyed based on earlier

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 2 SUMMARY reports, experiences from participants, study of maps and satellite images. Transport was by car, boat (zodiac, motorboat or pirogue), or on foot. The different habitats were counted as completely as possible, but many areas were inaccessible and could not be counted. Between Bamusso and Idenao in the Northern section, 10 km of beach was not counted due to a lack of time and an almost complete absence of birds. Between Limbe and Cape Cameroon at the northern entrance of the Wouri estuary, 23 km of rocky beaches was not surveyed due to inaccessibility and lack of time. Between the southern entrance of the Wouri estuary and Jojo II near the Sanaga estuary 20 km of sandy beaches were not counted due to lack of time. Some 71 kilometer of sandy beaches south of the Sanaga estuary to 10 km north of Kribi were not counted due to inaccessibility of the beaches for motorised transport and rough seas, preventing use of the boat. The mangroves were basically inaccessible. Many of the main creeks in the mangroves were visited, either by boat or on foot, but few birds were visible among the mangroves while the interior of these forests was inaccessible. Only the main channels were included in the count, it is estimated that some 120 kilometer of main channel was not counted. Counts were performed during low tide (mudflats) and high tide (roosts on sandbars and islands). Double counts were prevented by visiting sites only once, and when sites were visited more than once only taking the highest count of either visit. While moving through the area, only birds that were sitting or flying towards us were counted, birds flying away were only counted if they were not encountered again. Waders appeared to be resting and feeding on the same mudflat but moving up and down the mudflat with the tide, no movements of waders was recorded flying from mudlflats to roosts making double counting unlikley. The counted numbers of birds were used to derive estimates for the Cameroonian coast for each species.

Coastal waterbirds in Cameroon In total, 18,326 waterbirds were counted during this survey, divided over 65 Palaearctic and afrotropical species. The total estimate of waterbirds for the Cameroonian coastal wetlands based on the present study is between 31,000 and 61,000 birds. When the results of the present study are compared with earlier waterbird counts of various parts of the Cameroonian coast, the total estimate for the Cameroonian coastal wetlands appears to be between 50,000 and 60,000 waterbirds for the period January-March.

Cormorants to Ibises In total 3,409 birds were counted in this group, mainly concentrated in the Ndian Basin and the Wouri estuary and to a lesser extent on the Sanaga River. The Little Egret was the most numerous bird and about half of all Little Egrets counted were found in the Wouri estuary. Little Egrets were omnipresent in the mangroves and as these areas were hardly counted, the total number is expected to have been largely underestimated. Other common species included Grey Heron and Great Egret, who were mostly found on the mudflats and banks of larger creeks in the mangroves. A large but localised concentration of African Openbill storks was present at the Sanaga River, feeding on bivalves in the sandbanks in the river. White Pelicans were mainly found on the outer fringes of the Ndian Basin while Pink-backed Pelicans seemed to concentrate in the Wouri estuary. Other herons like Squacco Herons and Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 3 SUMMARY Green-backed Herons, and Sacred Ibis were found in all coastal wetlands. It is estimated that between 10,000 and 20,000 water birds of this group are present in Cameroonian coastal wetlands.

Ducks, rails and finfoots The densities of birds in this group are rather low on the Cameroonian coast. Most observed birds are resident birds found singly or in pairs. The Hartlaub’s Duck was found mainly around the Sanaga River, and possibly this area is a stronghold for this African species. No Palaearctic migrants in this group were observed on the Cameroon coast. No estimate was made for this group in Cameroonian coastal wetlands.

Waders This group is well represented on the Cameroon coast, with the most dominant species being the Palaearctic species Common Greenshank, Common Redshank, Curlew Sandpiper and Common Ringed Plover. These species seem to be concentrated on a few mudflats, notably Saviour Island and Barak Island in the Ndian Basin, and the mudflats on the northern shores of the Wouri estuary. Greenshanks are also found further inland and throughout the coastal wetlands. The Grey Pratincole is common on the Sanaga River, with up to 150 individuals on a single sandbar. It is estimated that between 12,000 and 23,000 waders are present in Cameroonian coastal wetlands.

Gulls, Terns and African Skimmer In total 7,256 birds were counted in this group, making it the most dominant group of water birds on the Cameroon coast. The most numerous birds were Royal Tern and African Skimmer. Royal Terns could be found at the seaside on sandbars along the coast in the Ndian Basin, Wouri estuary and Sanaga estuary. African Skimmer was found in large concentrations in the Ndian Basin, Wouri estuary and on the Sanaga River. It is estimated that between 10,000 and 17,000 Gulls, Terns and African Skimmer are present in Cameroonian coastal wetlands.

Ornithological importance of the coastal wetlands in Cameroon The coastal wetlands of Cameroon are of great importance to waterbirds. The African Skimmer is present in significant numbers in Cameroon. Based on the most recent population estimates [Delany & Scott, 2006], 18% of the West African population and 8% of the global population of this near-threatened species [Birdlife International, 2004] was present in Cameroon at the time of the survey. Possibly the largest flock of African Skimmer ever recorded (1860 birds) was observed in the Ndian basin. The 1% Ramsar criterion [Delany&Scott, 2006] for this species was met in three areas: the Ndian basin, the Wouri estuary and the Sanaga River. The breeding population of African Skimmer on the Sanaga River may be one of the largest recorded. A large resident breeding population of Grey Pratincole is found on the Sanaga River, exceeding the 1% criterion [Delany&Scott, 2006] for the global population. Two species of Terns, Little Tern and Royal Tern, are found in large numbers in Cameroon and both species exceed the 1% Ramsar criterion [Delany&Scott, 2006] in the Ndian Basin. Previous studies in the Wouri estuary in 1998 and 1999 have shown this area to hold more than 20,000 waterbirds [West et al , 2002], passing the Ramsar criterion for large congregations of waterbirds.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 4 SUMMARY The coast is also of importance for Great White and Pink-backed Pelicans, Great White and Little Egrets and waders like Common Greenshank, Common Redshank, Curlew Sandpiper, and Ringed Plover. The Ndian Basin, Wouri estuary and Sanaga River and surrounding wetlands are home to the West . The Ndian Basin and the Wouri estuary still contain large areas of pristine mangrove forests which form important breeding grounds for fish, invertebrates and other components of the food web.

Conservation needs Based on the results of this and previous surveys, a number of conservation actions are proposed. The Ndian Basin is still a largely pristine and undisturbed mangrove ecosystem harbouring large numbers of waterbirds. This area should receive formal protection as a wetland under the Ramsar convention and possibly be included in a National Park to create a continuous protected forest zone from the sea continuing into the Korup National Park. Additional biodiversity surveys, including mammal surveys, should be done to identify other conservaton needs of this unique habitat for wildlife. The expanding oil & gas industry poses direct and indirect threats to the region. Any development in this region should be subject of thorough environmental and social impact studies to prevent and mitigate any negative impacts. Strict environmental protection rules and regulations should be enforced to prevent environmental damage and habitat loss due to industrial developments of on-shore and off-shore in this highly sensitive habitat. The Wouri estuary is already suffering from extensive human activities including the expanding harbour, over-fishing and uncontrolled logging of mangroves. Management procedures should be put in place and enforced, proper land planning done and (parts of) the Wouri estuary protected as a Ramsar site. The Sanaga River is home to a unique biodiversity including African Skimmer, Grey Pratincole, African Openbill Storks and Manatees. This combination of species in a largely undisturbed ecosystem is very rare in Africa and should be preserved through formal protection. The nearby Lake Ossa and the Douala-Edea reserve have already received protection as Fauna reserves and the Sanaga West of the Edea-Douala road right to the Sanaga estuary should likewise be placed under protection by listing it as a Ramsar site or making it a National Park. Effective protective measures and management of natural resources is urgently needed to prevent degradation of these vulnerable habitats on the Cameroonian coast.

Faunistical varia During the survey, a total of 300 bird species was observed. One species new to Cameroon (Yellow-legged Gull, Larus cachinnans ) was observed. Notable finds were Black-winged Stilts, Pied Avocets and large numbers of Great White Pelicans. A single large Nile crocodile (2.5 m) was seen at the Sanaga estuary, remarkable as crocodiles are severely hunted for consumption.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 5 SUMMARY Recommendations

Based on this survey, the following recommendations can be made:

• The Ndian Basin, Wouri Estuary and lower Sanaga River should be identified as Ramsar sites as a first step towards sustainable use of these wetlands. • The Ndian Basin, Wouri Estuary and lower Sanaga River should receive formal protection in the form of national park or reserve to protect the unique biodiversity values in these regions. • Sensitisation of local populations and promotion of sustainable practises is needed to reduce human pressure on coastal habitats. • Promotion of (bird) touristic sites together with incentives for private sector investment is needed to increase the potential of this sustainable alternative source of income. • Environmental Impact Assessments of activities affecting the coast are to be made public and integrated into a coastal Environmental Management Plan to steer sustainable development of the Cameroon coast. • Monitoring of biodiversity values of coastal wetlands is to be continued and expanded to provide information for management plans.

1.2 Summaire

Introduction Le recensement des oiseaux d’eau a été fait durant la période entre le 12 et 27 Janvier, et du 4 au 10 Mars 2007 le long de la côte Camerounaise. Cette étude s’est intéressée aux sites suivant: Campo, l’Estuaire de la Sanaga, l’estuaire de Douala, la partie côtière du Mont Cameroun et le basin de Ndian y compris la Peninsule de Bakassi. Cette expédition a été facilitée par la Foundation Working Group International Wader and Waterfowl Research (WIWO). Cette recherche s’inscrit en droit ligne l’objectif principal de WIWO en Afrique de l’ouest a savoir recenser les oiseaux d’eau qui vivent dans les zones humides et zones côtières. Au total, 18,326 oiseaux d’eau ont été recensés reparties entre 65 éspèces.

L’avifaune des zones humides de la partie septentrionaux, notamment la partie qui se trouve au rivage sud du bassin Lac Tchad, et les plaines d’inondations de la Logone, sont extrêmement riches selon les recherches ornithologues [Scholte et al ,1999; Van Wetten & Spierenburg,1998; Dijkstra et al ., 2002; Ganzevles&Bredenbeek, 2005]. Quelques études très restreintes ont déjà été menées le long de la côte Camerounaise [West et al , 2002 ; Ajonina et al ,2004] mais les études détailles non jamais été faites pour le bassin de Ndian-un grand estuaire a la bordure du Nigeria. A présent il est urgent d’évaluer l’importance de la côte Camerounais pour les oiseaux migrateurs et résident, afin d’identifier les lieux ou ils se concentrent pour pouvoir proposer les mesures de conservation et de la gestion, et aussi pour évaluer si ces sites remplissent un ou plusieurs critères de la convention Ramsar sur les zone humides d’importance internationale.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 6 SUMMARY Les objectifs d’étude:

• Recenser intégralement les oiseaux d’eau de la côte Camerounaise de Campo (près de la Guinée Equatoriale) de Cape Bakassi au bord du Nigeria. • Déterminer si certaines parties de la côte Camerounais remplissent déjà les critères spécifiques de Ramsar concernant les oiseaux d’eau (plus de 20,000 oiseaux d’eau sur un site) et critères de 1% (plus de 1% de la population régionales d’une espèce sur un site). • Former les scientifiques locaux, les techniciens et les ONG en techniques de recensement des oiseaux. • Renforcer la collaboration entre les ONG et les organisations gouvernementales qui oeuvrent pour la conservation des zones humides. • Fournir les informations qui pourraient être utilisées par un des organisations participant pour le soutien de statut de la protection des sites remplissant un des critères de protection importants. • Identifier les opportunités de tourisme lies aux oiseaux d’eau au long de la côte Camerounaise.

Ce rapport doit être considère comme une étude préliminaire des oiseaux d’eau et les zones humides de la côte Camerounaise.

Remerciements Ce projet a été réalisé grâce au soutien financier de Wetlands International (à travers la collaboration et le support financier de la FAO et du CIRAD), de Koop Cameroun et Pecten Cameroun. Les barques motorisés ont été fournies par CWCS et le Foyer du Marin pour effectuer les déplacements sur le fleuve Sanaga et l’estuaire du Wouri. Le déplacement terrestre sur toute la côte camerounaise a été rendu possible grâce au véhicule mis à la disposition de l’équipe du projet par Jaap van der Warde. Les personnes et organisations suivantes ont été d’un grand apport : le Ministre des Forêts et de la faune, les maires d’Ekondo Titi et de Bamusso pour avoir facilité le travail dans leurs circonscriptions municipales respectives, M. Din de Bonendale, M. James pour l’organisation de la navigation dans le bassin du Ndian, Ms Moussa Gilbert et Mensti du 21 ème bataillon du camp militaire pour avoir assuré à la sécurité de l’équipage dans le bassin Ndian, M. Benjamin Sherkfem de PEW Buea pour avoir assuré la distribution des courriers aux autorités administratives, M. Kenneth du FESRUD pour l’organisation de la logistique à Ekondo Titi. L’assistance de Ms. Bern de Bruijn (WIWO) et Tim Dodman (Wetlands International) pour la recherche des financements et les commentaires du rapport final a été d’une très grande importance.

Zones humides côtières et habitats du Cameroun La zone côtière du Cameroun est située dans le golfe de Guinée à la côte ouest africaine. Elle s’étend sur 402 km, de la zone de mangrove de Bakassi à la frontière du Nigéria jusqu’au plages sableuses bordant des forêts humides primaires de la Guinée Equatoriale. Cette zone côtière draîne la majorité des cours d’eau se trouvant en Afrique centrale et de l’ouest. L’estuaire du fleuve Cross constitue la limite entre le Nigeria et le Cameroun. Appelée Bassin du Ndian, cette zone est

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 7 SUMMARY très peu peuplée et contient un vaste étendu de forêts marécageuses primaires (mangrove) et de vase marine. Cette mangrove est limitée au sud par le Mont Cameroun, montagne la plus élevée à l’ouest de l’Afrique. Cette partie de la côte est caractérisée par des plages sableuses et limitée par des forêts. Cependant, au sud d’Idenao, on observe des affleurements rocheux et des larves refroidies près des plages sableuses noires. A cet endroit, la côte est bordée par les plantations de palmiers à huile jusqu’à Limbé. La ligne côtière au sud de Limbé s’ouvre dans l’estuaire de Douala. L’estuaire de Douala, le plus grand de l’Afrique de l’ouest possède le port maritime le plus important du pays. Elle est fortement peuplée et caractérisée par des plages sableuses, de mangroves, de forêts marécageuses. A 50 km au sud, le fleuve Sanaga se déverse dans l’océan atlantique par un petit estuaire. Au sud de la Sanaga, la ligne de côte de la réserve Douala-Edéa, traversée par des petits cours d’eau comprend des plages vierges ceinturant les forêts marécageuses. A kribi où la route principale côtoie la côte, un grand centre touristique s’est développé au cours de ces 10 à 20 dernières années. Entourées par les forêts secondaires de basse altitude et occasionnellement traversé par de petits ruisseaux, les plages sableuses s’étendent de Kribi jusqu’à la frontière avec la Guinée Equatoriale. Les estuaires du Wouri et de la Sanaga, le bassin du Ndian constituent les principales zones humides de la ligne côtière du Cameroun. Les activités humides sont intenses dans les estuaires du wouri et de la sanaga. Il s’agit principalement de la pêche, et de l’exploitation des espèces de la mangrove pour le fumage du poisson. Le bassin du Ndian est moins peuplé, mais connaît les mêmes menaces. Avec le récent règlement du conflit frontalier entre le Cameroun et Nigeria à propos de la péninsule de Bakassi dans le bassin du Ndian, les industries pétrolières et gazières ont été entreprises des explorations dans la zone. Ceci a conduit à un accroissement de la population et des menaces de pollution et de destruction des habitats naturels.

Méthodes Des investigations ont été effectuées sur les côtes camerounaises pendant 2,5 semaines au de janvier 2007 de la frontière avec le Nigeria jusqu’au fleuve Sanaga et, pendant une autre semaine au mois de mars 2007 entre l’estuaire de la Sanaga et la frontière avec la Guinée Equatoriale. Ces investigations se sont appuyées sur les recherches antérieures, l’expérience des membres de l’équipe de recherche, des cartes et des images satellitaires. Les déplacements des membres de l’équipe se faisaient en voiture, par le zodiaque, les barques motorisées, les pirogues ou à pieds. Les différents habitats ont été explorés et dénombrés dans la mesure du possible. Cependant, certains habitats n’ont pas été dénombrés pour plusieurs raisons. Le dénombrement n’a pas été réalisé sur une distance de 10 km le long de la plage comprise entre Bamusso et Idenau par manque de temps et l’absence d’oiseaux. Les plages rocheuses, sur une distance de 23 km situées entre Limbé et Cape Cameroun au nord de l’embouchure de l’estuaire du Wouri n’ont pas été explorées car inaccessible et manque de temps. Entre l’embouchure sud de l’estuaire du wouri et YoYo II près de l’estuaire de la Sanaga, les plages sableuses n’ont pas été explorées par manque de temps. Les plages sableuses sur une distance de 71 km au sud de l’estuaire de la Sanaga et 10 km au nord de Kribi n’ont pas été accessibles car les conditions climatiques n’étaient pas favorables.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 8 SUMMARY Les oiseaux aquatiques de la zone côtière du Cameroun Pendant cette étude, 18.326 oiseaux d’eau ont été dénombrés au total, avec plus de 65 espèces paléarctiques et afro-tropicales. Au vu des résultats de cette étude, l’effectif des oiseaux aquatiques des zones humides côtières du Cameroun est estimé entre 31 000 et 61 000 individus. En comparant les résultats de cette étude et ceux dèja réalisés dans cette zone, il apparaît une estimation totale comprise entre 50 000 et 60 000 oiseaux d’eau pour la période de Janvier à mars.

Cormorants jusqu’à Ibis 3.409 grands échassiers « large waders » ont été dénombrés au total ; ceux-ci sont essentiellement concentrés dans le bassin du Ndian et l’estuaire du wouri. Cependant, ils sont faiblement présents sur la Sanaga. La Aigrette garzette a été l’oiseau la plus abondante et, elle est concentrée principalement à l’estuaire du Wouri (environ la moitié). Omniprésente dans la mangrove, l’effectif de cet oiseau a été largement sous-estimé car les conditions de travail dans cette zone étaient particulièrement rudes. Les espèces communes telles que l’Héron cendré et la Grande aigrette ont été observées au niveau des bancs de boue et le long des criques dans les mangroves. Sur les bancs de sable du fleuve Sanaga, ont été observés une population importante et localisée de Bec-ouvert Africain s’alimentant de bivalves. Les Pélicans blancs étaient présents dans les périphéries du bassin du Ndian alors que les Pélican gris semble être concentrés à l’estuaire du Wouri. D’autres espèces comme le Crabier chevelu, le Héron strié, et l’Ibis sacré sont présents dans toutes les zones humides côtières. Les grands oiseaux pêcheurs « Large wading birds » sont estimés entre 10.000 et 20.000 dans les zones humides côtières du Cameroun.

Canards, Râles et Grébifoulques La densité des oiseaux de ce groupe est plutôt faible dans la côte camerounaise. La majorité de ces oiseaux vive de manière permanente en solitaire ou en couple. Le canard Hartlaud est principalement concentré autour du fleuve Sanaga et, ce milieu héberge fortement cette espèce. Aucune espèce migratrice paléarctique n’a été observée dans la côte du Cameroun. L’effectif de ce groupe d’oiseaux n’a pas été estimé.

Limicoles Ce groupe est bien représenté dans la zone côtière du Cameroun. Dans ce groupe, les espèces paléarctiques sont les plus dominantes et elles sont constituées Chevalier aboyeur, Chevalier gambette, Bécasseau cocorli, Pluvier grand-gravelot. Ces espèces semblent être concentrées sur quelques bancs de boue, notamment les îles de Saviour et de Barak dans le bassin du Ndian, les bancs de boue littoraux au nord de l’estuaire du Wouri. Les Chevalier aboyeur sont aussi présents à l’intérieur du continent et dans toutes les zones humides côtières. Le Glaréole grise est un oiseau communément présent le long du fleuve Sanaga, avec plus de 150 individus sur un banc de sable. Une estimation située entre 12.000 et 23.000 échassiers a été obtenue dans les zones humides côtières du Cameroun.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 9 SUMMARY Goelands, Sternes, Guifettes et Bec-en-ciseaux d’Afrique Un total de 7.256 oiseaux a été dénombré dans ce groupe, constituant ainsi le groupe d’oiseaux d’eau le plus représenté sur la côte du Cameroun. Les oiseaux les plus abondants étaient les Sterne royale et les Bec-en-ciseaux d’Afrique. Le Sterne royale peut être observée sur les bancs de sable près de la mer le long de la côte dans le bassin du Ndian, les estuaires du Wouri et de la Sanaga. Les Bec-en-ciseaux d’Afrique furent fortement concentrés dans le bassin du Ndian, l’estuaire du Wouri et le fleuve Sanaga. Une estimation située entre 10.000 et 17.000 de Goelands, Sternes, Guifettes et Bec-en-ciseaux d’Afrique a été obtenue dans les zones humides côtières du Cameroun.

Importance ornithologique des zones humides côtières du Cameroun Les zones humides côtières du Cameroun sont d’une grande importance pour les oiseaux aquatiques. Le Bec-en-ciseaux africain est présent en nombre significatif au Cameroun. Sur la base des estimations récentes, 18% de la population ouest africaine et 8% de la population globale de cette espèce en voie de menace « near-threatened » (Birdlife International, 2004) était présent au Cameroun lors de cette étude. La plus grande bande de Bec-en-ciseaux d’Afrique (1860 individus) a été enregistrée dans le bassin du Ndian. Le critère Ramsar de [Delany&Scott, 2006] pour cette espèce a été atteint dans 3 zones : bassin du Ndian, estuaire du Wouri et fleuve Sanaga. Le Glaréole grise, présent en grand nombre sur le fleuve Sanaga dépasse le critère de 1% [Delany&Scott, 2006] exigé pour la population globale. 2 espèces de Sternes, notamment Sterne royale et Sterne naine sont présents au Cameroun en grand nombre, et dépassant le critère Ramsar de 1% dans le bassin du Ndian [Delany&Scott, 2006]. Les études effectuées dans l’estuaire du wouri en 1998 et 1999 ont montré que cette zone héberge plus de 20.000 oiseaux aquatiques (West et al , 2002), dépassant ainsi le critère Ramsar de congrégations d’oiseaux d’eau. La côte est aussi d’une importance capitale pour les grands échassiers « large waders » (e.g. le Pélican blanc et le pélican gris, la Grande aigrette et la Aigrette garzette) et les limicoles (e.g. Chevalier aboyeur, Chevalier gambette, Bécasseau cocorli, Pluvier grand-gravelot). Le bassin du Ndian et l’estuaire du Wouri possèdent encore de vaste étendue de fôrets de mangrove primaire constituant des habitats favorables à la reproduction des poissons, des invertébrés et les composantes de la chaîne alimentaire. Le bassin du Ndian, l’estuaire du wouri, le fleuve Sanaga et les zones humides environnantes représente des habitats importants pour les lamantins ouest africains. For des résultats obtenus de cette étude et des études précédentes, un certain nombre d’actions de conservation doivent être envisagées. Le bassin de Ndian possède encore une zone importante de mangrove non perturbée hébergeant beaucoup d’oiseaux aquatiques. Cette zone devrait bénéficier d’une protection particulière en tant zone humide d’importance internationale « Zone humide inscrit à la convention de Ramsar ». D’autres études doivent être réalisées, notamment l’inventaire des mammifères pour confirmer cette zone comme habitat important pour la vie sauvage. L’expansion des industries gazières et pétrolières constitue une menace directe et indirecte dans cette région. Le développement de tout projet dans cette zone doit être soumis à une étude d’impact environnementale et sociale pour prévenir et atténuer les impacts négatifs. Des mesures de protection environnementales (cadre Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 10 SUMMARY réglementaire) strictes et persuasives doivent être renforcées pour limiter les dégâts environnementaux , surtout la perte d’habitats due au développement des industries on-shore et off-shore dans cette région très sensible. L’estuaire du Wouri montre dèja des signes de dégradation due principalement à l’urbanisation galopante, la surpêche et l’exploitation abusive des mangroves. Des procédures environnementales doivent être mise en place et renforcées, la planification de l’utilisation des terres doit être bien pensée et respectée. L’estuaire du wouri doit être inscrit à la convention de Ramsar pour être protégée. Le fleuve Sanaga héberge une biodiversité unique formée de Bec-en-ciseaux d’Afrique, de Bec- ouvert africain, de Glaréole grise et de Lamantins. Cette combinaison d’espèces procure à cet écosystème encore non perturbé un milieu unique nécessitant une protection formelle. Le lac Ossa et la réserve de Douala-Edéa sont dèja protégés comme réserve de faune. La zone Douala-Edéa à l’ouest de la Sanaga jusqu’à l’estuaire de ce fleuve doit aussi bénéficier d’une protection nationale. Il est urgent de mettre en place des mesures de protection environnementales efficaces pour prévenir la dégradation de ce milieu vulnérable.

Composition faunique Un total de 300 espèces d’oiseaux a été observé durant cette étude. Une nouvelle espèce a été observée au Cameroun (Goéland leucophée, Larus cachinnans ). Les oiseaux remarquables étaient essentiellement les Echasse blanche, Avocette élégante et un nombre important de Pélicans blancs. Un crocodile du Nile mesurant environ 2,5 m a été observé à l’estuaire de la Sanaga. Les crocodiles sont chassés dans cette zone pour la consommation.

Recommendations • De nombreuses données ont été collectées dans ces 3 zones (bassin du Ndian, l’estuaire du Wouri et basse Sanaga) pour leur identifier comme sites Ramsar. Il appartient maintenant au MINEP d’entreprendre des actions immédiates pour inscrire ces sites à la convention de Ramsar. Les partenaires du projet sont disposés à apporter leur soutien au gouvernement du Cameroun dans ce processus • Une étude d’impact stratégique de tous les projets en cours ou potentiels dans la zone côtière camerounaise doit être réalisée, prenant en compte les impacts cumulés sur l’environnement naturel, social et économique de cette zone. • Les études d’impacts environnementales des activités dans la côte doivent être mis à la disposition du public et, le MINEP doit intégrer les plans de gestion environnementale de toutes ces activités dans un plan de gestion environnementale côtière. • Des sites touristiques ont été identifiés et le MINTOUR doit assurer la promotion de ces sites en intégrant le secteur privé et les ONG d’environnement. • Un suivi de la biodiversité doit continuer et s’étendre à d’autres domaines (e.g. mammifères, poissons) dans le bassin du Ndian, l’estuaire du wouri, la basse Sanaga par le MINEP, MINFOF et les partenaires au projet.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 11 INTRODUCTION

Figure 1 Pristine sandy beaches along the Southern coast of Cameroon. Les Plages sablonneuses le long de la partie sud de la côte Camerounaise (JvdW).

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 12 INTRODUCTION 2. INTRODUCTION by Jaap van der Waarde

2.1 Waterbird counts on the coast of Cameroon

Cameroon is situated on the East Atlantic and Mediterranean flyways of migratory waders (figure 5). The avifauna of the wetlands in the North, notably the southern shores of and the Logone floodplain, is extremely rich and has been subject of substantial ornithological research (e.g. Scholte et al [1999]; Van Wetten & Spierenburg [1998]; Dijkstra et al [2002]; Ganzevles & Bredenbeek [2005]). In the 1970s, 80s and 90s, biologists working on the Korup national park regularly noted their observations while passing the Ndain basin on the ferry to Mundemba [Thomas, 1995; Green, 1996]. The first attempt of a comprehensive bird study of the Cameroonian coast was performed in January-March 1998 and 1999 by an English/Cameroonian team with financial support from Wetlands International [West et al , 2002]. This team counted significant numbers of waders, especially in the Estuaire de Douala (more than 26,000 waders). For the whole Cameroonian coast this group estimated the total number of waders in the winter season to be between 67,000 and 88,000. This number included an estimate for the Ndian Basin, a mangrove fringed estuary bordering Nigeria. This area was off-limits to visitors at that time due to a border dispute between Cameroon and Nigeria due to the presence of oil & gas deposits. Waterbird numbers were therefore extrapolated for this area and estimated to range between 27,000 and 48,000 birds. The International Court in The Hague has ruled in 2005 that the Bakassi peninsula in the Ndian Basin belongs to Cameroon and the area can since be visited again. Since 1999 regular ornithological surveys have been performed by one of the partners in the project, CWCS, in the Douala-Edea reserve, flanking the Sanaga River (see chapter 6). Several incidental visits and surveys to wetlands on the Cameroon coast [Baily & Motombe, 2004; Skeen, 2005; van der Waarde & Anye, 2006] have since confirmed the importance of this coastal area for migrating waterbirds, but no complete water bird survey of all wetlands on the Cameroon coast was ever done. In 2001 a training was given on waterbird counts and wetland management to 18 representatives from ministeries and NGOs in Cameroon by the Cameroon Ornithological Club, now CBCS [Yana, 2001] but most people who were active in that program have left tjhis field of work now.

2.2 Background of the project

In 2006 Cameroon ratified the Ramsar Convention and listed the Logone floodplain in the North as the first Ramsar site for Cameroon. Later the Borombi Mbo crater lake near Kumbo in the South- West Province was added, largely thanks to the presence of a unique endemic fish population in the lake. A Cameroonian project managed by WTG and funded by IUCN The Netherlands is presently performing biodiversity surveys on the Cameroonian coast around Douala to design procedures for management of wetlands and natural resources. At present there is an urgent need to evaluate the importance of the Cameroonian coast for migrating waterbirds, to identify congregation areas that are especially in need of conservation and management and to evaluate whether these sites meet one or more Ramsar criteria.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 13 INTRODUCTION Cameroon has less than 35 trained birders and there is a constant efflux of qualified people from the country due to lack of professional perspectives. The ornithologists from CBCS for instance are all working on PhD projects with foreign universities. Organising professional ornithological activities in Cameroon will help the existing pool of ornithologists to gain valuable experience and mean a boost to ornithology in general in Cameroon.

Table 1 Current knowledge of wintering Palaearctic, coastal water birds along the West African coast. ?: No information available (after Schepers & Marteijn, [1993]). Etat actuel des connaissances sur les limicoles palearciques hivernant sure les côtes de l’Afrique de l’Ouest. ?: pas d’information disponible (d’après Schepers & Marteijn, [1993]). Number of wintering Country coastal water birds Reference

Nombre de limicoles Pays côtieres en hibernage Références Morocco 87,000 Kersten & Smit [1984] Mauritania 2,200,000 Altenburg et al [1982] 2,305,000 Diawara & Overdijk [2007] Senegal >230,000 Dodman et al . [1997] Gambia 16,000 Vestergaard Jensen & Kirkebey [1980] Guinea-Bisau 1,150,000 Dodman & Sà [2005]; Zwarts [1988]

Total Marocco – Guinea Bissau: 4,086,000

Democratic Republic Guinea 375,000 Altenburg & van der Kamp [1991] Sierra Leone 130,000 - 200,000 Tye & Tye [1987] Liberia 35,000 Gatter [1988] Ivory Coast >300 Dodman & Diagana [2007]

Total Sierra Leone - Ivory Coast: > 610,300

Ghana > 42,000 Ntiamoa-Baidu & Grieve [1987] - >4,000 Dodman & Diagana [2007] Nigeria ? Cameroon 67,000-88,000 West et al [2002] Cameroon 50,000 – 60,000 this study, cette étude Equatorial Guinea ? 50,000 - 60,000 Schepers & Marteijn [1993]

Total – Gabon > 229,000

Providing the responsible authorities with scientifically valid information about bird biodiversity in the Cameroonian wetlands will help in securing the necessary protection for these areas. The Estuaire du Cameroun forms the entrance to the harbour of Douala, the industrial heart of Cameroon and the biggest economic driver for the national economy. The Ndian Basin is rich in oil but so far has hardly been explored and is not yet exploited. Economic developments in these areas are inevitable and detailed and scientifically valid information about the importance of these areas for biodiversity in general and birds in particular is essential to support initiatives to secure some form of protection of these areas. Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 14 INTRODUCTION

Figure 2 Left/ Gauche : Wouri&Sanaga team, fltr/ de g. à dr : Usongo Robert, John (mission Figure 3 Ndian Basin team, fltr/ de g. à dr : staff), Innocent Ndong Bass, Josephine Nasina Efanja Philip, John (skipper/ pilote ), (mission staff), Pierre (Pretre mission), Niba Roger Skeen, Ngalim Julliet, Usongo Robert, Develine, Roger Skeen, Jaap van der Waarde, Moussa Gilbert, Paul Higson, Jaap van der Paul Higson (WTG). Waarde, Mentsi Richard (Luther Tchakep missing from group portrait, Luther Tchakep absent ) (JvdW). 2.3 Aims of the project

The aims of the project were the following: • Perform a complete count of waterbirds on the Cameroonian coast, from Campo in the South (border with Equatorial Guinee) to Cape Bakassi in the North (border with Nigeria); • Collect and present ornotihological information from an ongoing water bird monitoring program on the lower Sanaga River; • Determine whether parts of the coast meet the specific Ramsar criteria specific for waterbirds; • Train local scientists, technicians and NGOs in bird census techniques; • Strengthen the collaboration between NGOs and governmental bodies in Cameroon working on wetland conservation; • Provide information that can be used by the participating organisations to support formal protection status of any of the visited sites if relevant criteria are met; • Identify opportunities for birding tourism on the coast of Cameroon.

2.4 International co-operation

The project was an international collaboration, involving expatriate biologists from the UK and The Netherlands with expertise in waterbird census techniques and Cameroonian NGOs with expertise and involved in wetland protection in Cameroon. These organisations are: WTG. Watershed Task Group. Managing the present IUCN-funded project on the Douala wetlands, including the Estuaire du Cameroun. CWCS. Cameroon Wildlife Conservation Society. Working on the Douala-Edea reserve and partner in the 1998-1999 Cameroon waterbird count. CBCS. Cameroon Biodiversity Conservation Society. The BirdLife International affiliate for Cameroon, working on nature conservation with a focus on bird protection.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 15 INTRODUCTION WWF, Worldwide Fund for Nature. WWF co-manages the Campo-Ma’an national park bordering the coast in the South together with the Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife (MINFOF). The composition of the project team varied as the project surveyed different parts of the Cameroonian coast. The first team to survey the Wouri estuary and Sanaga River was composed of the following people: Innocent Ndong Bass (CBCS), Usongo Robert (CWCS), Niba Develine (WTG), Roger Skeen, Paul Higson and Jaap van der Waarde. The second team to survey the Ndian Basin was composed of the following people: Usongo Robert (CWCS), Ngalim Juliette Nsam (WTG), Luther Tchakep (MINFOF), Nasina Efanja Philip (FESRUD), Roger Skeen, Paul Higson and Jaap van der Waarde. The third team to survey the coast from the Douala-Edea reserve to Campo was composed of the following people: Taku Awa II (CBCS), Usongo Robert (CWCS), Luther Tchakep (MINFOF) and Jaap van der Waarde. The project was performed with endorsement and was closely followed by the Cameroonian ministry of Forests and Wildlife MINFOF, responsible for Forestry and Flora and Fauna, and the ministry of MINEP, responsible for implementing the Ramsar convention in Cameroon. The project was managed by the WTG and implemented under the patronage of the Foundation Working Group International Wader and Waterfowl Research (WIWO).

2.5 Lay-out of the report

In Chapter 3 a general description of the research area is given. The research methods and itinerary are presented in Chapter 4. The results of the waterbird count are presented in Chapter 5 for different species groups, followed by a description of the results for each species. Results from a long term bird monitoring program executed since 1999 by CWCS on the lower Sanaga River are presented in Chapter 6. In Chapter 7 the results of all sightings of birds, mammals and reptiles during the census are presented. The opportunities for birding tourism on the coast of Cameroon are discussed in Chapter 8. The international importance of coastal wetlands for water birds is discussed in Chapter 9 and relevant Ramsar criteria are evaluated. The conclusions and recommendations of the project and implications for protection of coastal wetlands in Cameroon are discussed in Chapter 10, followed by cited literature in chapter 11.

2.6 Acknowledgements

The project received financial support from Wetlands International (through the financial support and cooperation of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and CIRAD), Koop Cameroun and Pecten Cameroun. We especially want to thank Rene Kolkman from Koop Cameroun and Ruud Schrama from Pecten Cameroun for their fast response and valuable support to the project. Manfred Kühle from the Foyer du Marin in Douala kindly offered us a Zodiac boat with engine for the survey on the and inner Douala estuary. Mr Din kindly offered us a safe place to stall the boat while in Bonendale. CWCS provided their motorboat for surveys on the Sanaga River and Wouri estuary. Jaap van der Waarde provided the vehicle for transportation of the project team along the coast.The mayor of Ekondo Titi and his son James helped us by arranging transportation throughout the Ndian Basin. The Mayor of Bamusso kindly helped us to organise lodging for the team while in Bamusso. Moussa Gilbert and Mentsi Richard from the 21e BAFUMAR military camp in Ekondo Titi looked after our safety while in the Ndian Basin. Benjamin Sherkim of PEW is Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 16 INTRODUCTION thanked for distributing letters to administrative authorities, Mr Kenneth from FESRUD for organising logistics in Ekondo Titi. The assistance of Bernd de Bruijn and Jan van der Winden from WIWO and Tim Dodman from Wetlands International in fundraising and commenting on the final report was greatly appreciated.

Figure 4 Subsistence fishing is the main economic activity in villages in the Wouri estuary . La pêche artisanale est la principale activité économique des villages du Wouri. (JvdW).

Figure 6 Flyways of migratory water birds . Voies migratoires des limicoles .

Figure 5 Map of Cameroon . Carte de Cameroun.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 17 COASTAL WETLANDS AND HABITATS OF CAMEROON 3. COASTAL WETLANDS AND HABITATS OF CAMEROON by Chi Napoleon and Jaap van der Waarde

3.1 Cameroon, a country profile

Geography and climate

Cameroon is often called "Africa in miniature" because of its geographical, climatic, and cultural diversity. Cameroon covers 475,440 square kilometers and shares its borders with six other African nations: Nigeria, Chad, Gabon, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, and (Figure 5). It is a diverse country with coastal plains in the southwest, dissected plateau in the central region, mountains in the west, and plains in the north. Cameroon is divided into five broad ecological/ bio-climatic zones; the north/wooded savanna, the coastal/maritime/littoral zones, the western highlands, the forested southern zones and the urban zones.

The Cameroon coastal zone forms the endpoint of several West African rivers, e.g. Sanaga, Wouri, Nyong, Dibamba and Ntem. The combined volume discharged by seven main rivers of Cameroon is approximately 12 m3/s during the wet season [Niba, 1999] and is distributed along the coast. The prevailing climate in this region is oceanic, with two distinct dry (November-March) and rainy (April- October) seasons. The climate is marked by the permanent presence of the monsoon winds, high humidity, low evaporation, low insolation, average temperature fluctuation between 22ºC and 33ºC. The average rainfall for the region is estimated to be 3,000 mm/year. This region is characterised by a weak circulation of ocean currents and low salinity levels (17%). Along the coast is the permanent existence of a warm, low salinity surface water layer over a cold, high-salinity bottom layer; the warm surface layer is 20-30m thick and is separated from the bottom layer by a permanent thermocline whose position fluctuates with season and location. Tides in Cameroon are the semidiurnal type (two floods and ebbs a day). The average difference between high tide and low tide is about 1 meter.

Cameroon is home to a number of significant wetlands. Wetlands are highly productive ecosystems where excess water dominates the environment. As defined by the Ramsar Convention, wetlands include a wide variety of habitats such as marshes, peat lands, flood plains, rivers and lakes and coastal areas such as salt marshes, mangroves, and sea grass beds but also coral reefs and other marine areas not deeper than six meters at low tide, as well as human made wetlands such as water-treatment ponds and reservoirs.

Human population The republic of Cameroon is having a population estimated at 16 million inhabitants. Cameroon has more than 250 ethnic groups. Yaoundé and Douala, the administrative and economic capital respectively, have more than one quarter of the estimated population of Cameroon. The North of the contry is sparsely populated, the main tribe are called Fulbe or Fulani who are muslims practising a nomadic or sedentary raising life style. The people in the North-West, South- West and West Provinces are called semi-Bantu, of which the Bamilike live around Bafoussam and the Tikar in the Ndop plains and northern Highlands. Bantu people are found in the Central, South

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 18 COASTAL WETLANDS AND HABITATS OF CAMEROON and Eastern parts of the country. Indigenous groups in Cameroon consist chiefly of the Bakas and the pygmies in the South and Eastern provinces. On the coast, many settlements have been erected by immigrant fisherman from other West African countries, notably Benin, Ghana and Nigeria. These people are often considered illegal immigrants and their settlemements are lacking in basic services.

Natural resources, agriculture and livestock The republic of Cameroon is endowed with natural resources which range from timber (found in the East, South, Littoral and parts of the Centre province) to fisheries (found in the Littoral, South- West, South, North and Extreme North provinces). The chief cash crops, cocoa and coffee, are grown in the South-West, West, and North-West provinces. In the North-West and West provinces vegetables are grown and in the North cotton is the main agricultural product. Livestock production is prominent in the Adamawa plateau and in the North-West province of Cameroon, while palm oil production is prominent in the South-West and Littoral provinces. Mineral oil exploration and production is carried out along the coastal areas. Production is currently restricted to off-shore fields in the Gulf of Guinea, but reserves have been found in the Bakassi peninsula, the Mamfe area and the Logone floodplains in the North. The Chad-Cameroon pipeline which ends at Kibi transports oil from Chad and since 2003 significantly adds to the gross domestic product.

Conservation, forestry legislation and natural resources Cameroon is signatory to a number of conventions and agreements some of which include: the wetland convention (Ramsar Convention); Convention of Biological Diversity (CBD), which commits her to the conservation of her biological diversity including wetlands; Convention on Migratory Species (CMS); Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC); and African Eurasian Waterbird Agreement (AEWA). Mention can also be made of the International Convention on the civil responsibility for pollution damages caused by hydrocarbons-Bruxelles, 29 November,1969, and its protocol-Cameroon’s ratification was on March, 9 th 1994; the Convention on the cooperation in protection and development of the marine and the adjacent coastal environment in the Western and Central Africa-Abidjan, 29 March 1981 and its protocol relative to cooperation in the fight against accidental pollution-Cameroon ratified it in March,1983.

The government of Cameroon has enacted a number of laws which could be used to enhance forest and wetland and environmental management; Law No.96/12 of 5th August 1996, relating to the management of the environment, Law No 98/005/ of 14th April 1998, which governs the management of Water resources including wetlands, law No 94/01 of 20th January 1994, which governs forestry management (including community forestry), wildlife and fisheries. Management of forest and wetlands in Cameroon has mainly been through the establishment of protected areas and reserves of various categories. Examples include the Dja reserve, Korup National park, Mount Cameroon National Park (in preparation) and Mount Kupe. In the framework of the Chad- Cameroon pipeline, the Campo Ma’an National Park and Mbam-Djerem National Park were gazetted as part of environmental compensation measures to off-set negative environmental impacts of the pipeline. Furthermore, Cameroon has listed two wetlands, The Waza-Logone Floodplain in the extreme North and the Barombi Mbo Crater Lake in the South West Porvince as Ramsar sites.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 19 COASTAL WETLANDS AND HABITATS OF CAMEROON

Biological significance The great diversity of the Republic of Cameroon is reflected in a great biological diversity as well. Cameroon is home to some of the world's most endangered species, including lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla ), Chimpanzees ( Pan troglodytes), Drills ( Mandrillus leucophaous ) and several species of guenon, some of which are endemic to Cameroon. About 8,000 species of higher plants are found in the Cameroonain forests, including an unknown number of endemic plants. Cameroon is home to two zones of exceptional endemism, the Congo-Guinean lowland forest and the Cameroonian Highlands, making this country a hotspot for biodiversity. A quarter of all butterflies in Africa and some 60 endemic reptiles are found in Cameroon. The avifauna of Cameroon is very rich with a country list of 920 species. According to Birdlife International, Cameroon is the third richest in bird biodiversity in Africa, including the Cameroon Mountains which are home to 29 restricted-range bird species, 12 of which are threatened. Cameroon is positioned on three flyways of migratory birds: the East Atlantic flyway, the Mediterranean flyway and the West-Asia/Pacific flyway, making it an important transit and wintering station for migratory birds coming from a huge area ranging from Canada to central Siberia (Figure 6). The forests along the Northern coast are part of the Cross-Sanaga-Bioko Coastal Forests ecoregion, comprising lowland and coastal forests and mangroves, with a very high animal biodiversity and a regional centre of endemism. Downstream from Edea, the Sanaga winds through extensive sand areas covered with swamp forests, an area very rich in birdlife and home to a sizeable population of West African Manatee. Part of this region, the Lake Ossa complex, is protected as a faunal reserve while south of the Sanaga the coastal swamp forest is protected in the Douala-Edea reserve. The coastal beaches are important breeding grounds for various species of sea turtles.

Conservation threats Major conservation threats to biodiversity in general and specifically to wetland ecosystems include; over exploitation of resources (fisheries, timber, wildlife etc), encroachment into protected and non protected areas (due to population expansion), pollution from various sources, loss of biological and ecological values of wetlands and forests, invasion of habitats by exotic species, loss of social, cultural and economic values of wetlands and forests resources. In the coastal areas of the Ndian Basin and the Southern coast, a major threat to wetland and mangrove forest is hydrocarbon pollution from spills from oil tankers/ships, petroleum exploration and production platforms. The industry around Douala forms a threat to the integrity of the Douala estuary and its wetlands. The lower Sanaga River and Lake Ossa may be significantly affected by a proposed hydropower scheme on the Sanaga River.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 20 COASTAL WETLANDS AND HABITATS OF CAMEROON

Figure 7 Increased population pressure in the Wouri estuary leads to over-fishing. L’augmentation de la populations des habitants d l’estuaires de wouri favorise la sur exploitation de la pêche (JvdW).

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 21 COASTAL WETLANDS AND HABITATS OF CAMEROON 3.2 Description of the Cameroonian coastal wetlands by Jaap van der Waarde

The study area composes of the complete coast of Cameroon, including estuaries, beaches, mangroves and islands along the coast.

Ndian basin Also known as the Bakassi, it forms an extensive area of creeks, mudflats and mangrove swamps bordering with Nigeria. There are no roads in this area, and until 1985 even Ekondo Titi and Mundemba could only be reached by boat. This area is bordered in the North by the river Akwa Yafe which forms the border with Nigeria. The river Ndian splits up into several distributaries, of which the , Ngosso and Andokat are the most important. Inland the mangrove swamps continue until they touch the borders of the lowland forest, in the southern part severely degraded and largely replaced by palm oil plantations and in the northern part consisting of the Korup national park, one of the finest lowland forests in West Africa. For almost the complete coastline of the Ndian Basin, the mangroves extend right into the sea with no beach at all, at other places muddy tidal beaches or narrow sandy beaches are present. The

Figure 8. Northern coast of Cameroon and main study areas . La partie Nord et Sud de la côte du Cameroun et les lieux principaux de l’étude.

Figure 9. Central and Southern coast of Cameroon and main study areas. La partie Sud et Centrale de la côte du Cameroun et les lieux principaux de l’étude.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 22 COASTAL WETLANDS AND HABITATS OF CAMEROON biggest mudflats are found near the ocean around the various peninsula’s and islands. The various channels leading inland are fringed by tidal mudflats that become narrower and after several kilometres disappear altogether with instead mangroves reaching the waterfront. The mangroves themselves are pristine and impenetrable. According to satellite images Figure 10 Mangrove-fringed coastline in the Ndian basin. there are a few small inland Mangrove et côtière du bassin de Ndian (JvdW ). waters inside these mangroves, otherwise the mangroves are continuous. At the south end of the Ndian Basin, several major mudflats are present, some with a core of mangrove forests on the highest grounds. The two main areas are Saviour Island, an extensive mudflat some 5 km off-shore from Bamusso, and Barak island, a small island in the mouth of the Andokat River and opposite the village of Barak. Other mudflats can be found in the vicinity of Bamusso and at the northern entrance of the Rio del Rey.

Mount Cameroon coast South of the Ndian Basin (Bamusso village) the coast becomes sandy with a steep sandy beach bordering degraded forests, agricultural lands and plantations. Between Idenao and Limbe, at the foot of Mount Cameroon, the coast becomes a black sandy beach with frequent rocky outcrops created by old lava flows. Along this coast a few small but rich freshwater lagoons Figure 11 Rocky coast of Mount Cameroon near Limbe . La partie rocheuse du mont Cameroun à coté de Limbe (JvdW ). are present, fed by springs originating from the Mount Cameroon. Near Debunscha a freshwater crater lake is present. This coast is heavily populated and especially around Limbe many tourist hotels fringe the beaches.

Wouri estuary The Douala estuary is a large area (2300 km 2) consisting of extensive mangrove swamps, mudflats, and creeks. The area is formed by the estuary of the Wouri River and forms the entrance to Douala harbour, the principal harbour to Cameroon, Chad and Central African Republic and the main industrial town of Cameroon. The mangroves are severely logged for fuel wood and numerous Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 23 COASTAL WETLANDS AND HABITATS OF CAMEROON villages dot the estuary and its many channels. Almost throughout the estuary the mangroves are fringed by extensive tidal mudflats, up to several hundreds of meters wide. The entrance from the sea is formed by Cape Cameroon in the North. Some 5 km South-East of Cape Cameroon, an extensive mudflat is present in the mouth of the Wouri estuary. Near the Southern entrance of the Wouri Figure 5 High tide roost of Pink-backed Pelican (Pelecanus rufescens) in the Wouri estuary. Un support pour Pelican gris estuary several sandbanks are (Pelecanus rufescens) dans l’estuaire de Wouri (JvdW). present on the seaward side of the estuary. Further upstream, the Wouri becomes a narrow channel when it passes between the residential Douala on the Southern bank and the industrial Douala on the Northern bank and is traversed by the Wouri bridge, the main traffic passage between Douala and the Western part of the country. This road cuts the mangroves to the North of Douala roughly in two, with tidal and brackish seaward mangroves and non-tidal freshwater mangroves to the East. Upstream from the Wouri bridge, the Wouri widens again to an extensive mangrove area. The Southside of this area borders residential Douala and contains many mudflats. The North side is industrialised and continues into mangrove forests with little or no mudflats.

Sanaga estuary and Douala-Edea reserve The river Sanaga is one of the 5 biggest rivers in West Africa and flows for 918 km from its sources on the Adamawua Plateau to the Atlantic Ocean, 10 km south of the Wouri Estuary. The hydropower plant at Edea is one of the two hydropower plants on the Sanaga River that together provide for some 95% of the energy production in Cameroon. Upstream on the Sanaga River and its tributaries several dams regulate the flow of the river to Figure 6 The Sanaga River estuary. L’estuaire de la fleuve secure sufficient flow in the dry Sanaga (JvdW). season to allow energy production. In the rainy season the river fills up between its steep banks, but in the dry season the water level drops dramatically exposing huge sandbanks and dunes in the Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 24 COASTAL WETLANDS AND HABITATS OF CAMEROON river. The Sanaga River is bordered on the north by extensive palm oil and rubber plantations and secondary forest. The Lake Ossa complex is composed of Lake Ossa and several smaller lakes and freshwater creeks and is a Fauna reserve thanks to the presence of the West African Manatee. The lake is linked to the Sanaga through a creek at the village of Dizangue. Lake Ossa is bordered by fishing villages and plantations and heavily over-fished. On the south side the river borders the Douala-Edea reserve, a pristine lowland swamp forest. This reserve holds numerous fresh water lakes and creeks that are largely inaccessible. Between the Sanaga River and the Douala estuary, the coast consists of sandy beaches with a few inlets like a large saltwater lagoon at the village of Jojo. The estuary of the Sanaga River consists of extensive sandbanks. South of the Sanaga River, the coast follows the Douala-Edea reserve. This is a steep sandy beach, with pristine swamp forest directly bordering the beach. Numerous creeks break through this coast with two larger rivers, the Nyong and Myile creating larger sand bars out in the sea. From the border of the Douala-Edea reserve, the coast remains a broad sandy beach with extensive palm oil plantations and secondary lowland forest inland until it reaches Kribi.

South Cameroon Kribi is the main beach resort of Cameroon and its numerous beaches are heavily developed for the tourism industry. South of Kribi the coast line consists of sandy beaches bordering primary and secondary forests on hilly terrain, intersected by numerous rivers and creeks and rocky outcrops. In the South, the border with Equatorial Guinea is formed by the mouth of the river Ntem.

3.3 Human use of the wetlands Wetlands are generally highly productive ecosystems providing many important benefits. These benefits, sometimes described as 'goods and services' may be wetland functions (e.g ground water recharge, flood control), uses of wetlands (water or its products e.g wood collection, research site, harvesting of food crops).Wetlands also have attributes or non-use values (e.g aesthetic component of the landscape, religious/cultural significance like for rituals).In general wetlands perform several functions simultaneously like recharge of ground water, flood mitigation and control, stabilisation of coastal banks &protection agaist natural disasters like tsunamis, retention and exportation of sediments and nutrients, water purification etc. Some of the values or products form wetlands include drinking water, wildlife and forest products, fisheries, forage for livestock, crops (rice, cocoyams etc), non-timber forest products, tourism, leisure, and transport.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 25 METHODS 4. METHODS by Jaap van der Waarde, Paul Higson and Roger Skeen

4.1 Introduction

The study area was surveyed based on earlier reports, experiences from participants, study of maps and satellite images. The different habitats were counted as completely as possible, but many areas were inaccessible and could not be counted (Table 2). Between Bamusso and Idenao in the Northern section, 10 km of beach was not counted due to a lack of time and an almost complete absence of birds. Between Limbe and Cape Cameroon at the northern entrance of the Wouri estuary, 23 km of rocky beaches was not surveyed due to inaccessibility and lack of time. Between the southern entrance of the Wouri estuary and Jojo II near the Sanaga estuary 20 km of sandy beaches were not counted due to lack of time.

Table 2 Habitat coverage in this survey. Les habitats de la zone de l’étude. Not habitat Habitat Surveyed surveyed coverage (km) (km) (fraction) tidal mudflats 68 0 1.00 mangroves 40 120 0.25 sandy beaches 94 101 0.48 rocky beaches 27 23 0.53 rivers 71 0 1.00 freshwater lagoons 28 50 0.36

total 328 295 0.53

Some 71 kilometer of sandy beaches south of the Sanaga estuary to 10 km north of Kribi were not counted due to inaccessibility of the beaches for motorised transport and rough seas, preventing use of the boat. The mangroves were basically inaccessible. Many of the main creeks in the mangroves were visited, either by boat or on foot, but few birds were visible among the mangroves while the interior of these forests were inaccessible. Only the main channels were included in the count, it is estimated that some 120 kilometer of main channel was not counted.

The census was performed by a team of varying composition, usually consisting of 6 to 8 people. The itinerary is shown in Table 3. The survey was done in two periods: From January 11 to 27 the Sanaga River (from Dizangue Westwards) and the coast northwards to Nigeria was counted.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 26 METHODS

Table 3 Planning of the 2007 Cameroon coast bird count. Le planning de dénombrements des le long de la côte Camerounaise, 2007. date Team 1 Team 2 Overnight stay Part one, Sanaga & the North 11-Jan Arrival Douala Bonendale guesthouses 12-Jan Preparation Bonendale guesthouses 13-Jan Wouri river (boat) Wouri mangroves (car) Bonendale guesthouses 14-Jan Douala estuary North (boat) Limbe to Debundscha Bonendale guesthouses coast (car) 15-Jan Douala estuary South (boat) Douala mangroves (car) Bonendale guesthouses 16-Jan Travel to Mariemberg Mission Mariemberg 17-Jan Sanaga river West (boat) Lake Ossa (car) Mission Mariemberg 18-Jan Sanaga river East (boat) Sanaga estuary (boat) Mission Mariemberg 19-Jan Douala estuary West (boat) Mission Mariemberg 20-Jan Travel to Douala Bonendale guesthouses 21-Jan Preparation Bonendale guesthouses 22-Jan Travel to Kumba Hotel Kumba 23-Jan Travel to Ekondo Titi Hotel Ekondo Titi 24-Jan Saviour Island (boat) Health clinic Bamusso 25-Jan Bakassi coast to Nigeria (boat) Health clinic Bamusso 26-Jan Barak island, coast to Idenao (boat) Hotel Ekondo Titi 27-Jan Travel to Kumba, end of part one

date Part two, Sanaga & the South Overnight stay 4-Mar Travel to Kribi, coast north of Kribi Hotel Kribi 5-Mar Coast from Kribi to Campo Hotel Campo 6-Mar Visit Campo Ma’an park, bird Nkoelon guesthouse ecotourism evaluation 7-Mar Travel to Mariemberg Mission Mariemberg 8-Mar Sanaga river between Edea and Mission Mariemberg Dizangue 9-Mar Sanaga estuary, end of survey

During the first part of the survey, two expatriate birders, highly skilled in waterbird counting, were present. From March 4 to 9 the coast from the Sanaga estuary south to Equatorial Guinea and remaining parts of the Sanaga River west of Edea were counted. Early May migration may have already started and waterbird numbers may be different from Mid-winter situation. This does not significantly affect the numbers of Paleartctic waders as they were almost absent from this part of the coast and the Sanaga River. Numbers of African Skimmers however do start to increase in this period and the observed numbers may not reflect the mid-winter, or better, dry season period.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 27 METHODS

4.2 Counting methods

Counting was done by car, boat (zodiac, motorboat or pirogue), or on foot. As the team was usually too big to fit safely in the boats that were used during the survey, most days the group was split in two. One group would count from the boat, while the second group would visit other sites that were better accessible Figure 7 Parking the boat at high tide created problems. Le parking du bateaux a la marée haute á posé des problèmes by car or on foot. In this way (WTG). maximum use was made of the available time and more sites could be visited. Each of the expatriate birders would join one team to make sure expertise was equally distributed over the teams. Members of local NGOs participated in all surveys to learn bird identification and waterbird survey methods. For most participants the project also offered a unique opportunity to visit areas that otherwise were out of reach due to the high costs of travelling and organising. For identification of birds the Birds of Western Africa was used [Borrow & Demey, 2001]. Bird sounds were checked against the Chappuis CD series [Chappuis, 2000].

Counts were done using different techniques depending on the terrain. For each area visited the techniques used are described. Counts were performed during low tide (mudflats) and high tide (roosts on sandbars and islands). At high tide, the water reached the mangroves at most places and no high tide roosts were visible. Probably the birds roosted inside the mangroves and were not visible, a phenomenon also recorded by others [Schepers and Marteijn, 1993; Ajonina et al , 2004]. At the lakes and rivers, counts were primarily done in the early morning and late afternoon, as during midday most birds were in hiding. Double counts were prevented by visiting sites only once, and when sites were visited more than once only taking the highest count of either visit. While moving through the area, only birds that were sitting or flying towards the observer were counted, birds Figure 8 Terns flying and fishing out at sea flying away were only counted if they were not were counted by telescope . Les Sternes volant et pêchant dans la mer ont été encountered again. Waders appeared to be resting dénombr é avec le télescope (JvdW). Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 28 METHODS and feeding on the same mudflat but moving up and down the mudflat with the tide, no movements of waders was recorded flying from mudlflats to roosts and double counting therefore is unlikely. Royal Terns were counted almost exclusively resting on high tide roosts and double counting is unlikely, other than if extensive movements between roosts occurred in the 3 days that the count was taking place in the Ndian basin. Little Terns in the Ndian basin were counted both resting on mudflats and fishing in the estuary on different days and double counting can not be excluded. However, on a later occasion while moving through the region van der Waarde [van der Waarde, 2007] observed groups of Little Terns flying inland in the estuary while a little later some 10 km further towards the sea a group of some 500 Little Terns was seen resting on the mudflats of Saviour Island. It is therefore assumed that the counts of Litte Terns observed resting on mudflats and flying in the estuary are indeed different birds.

Ndian Basin. The complete coastline and several mangrove creeks in the Ndian Basin were counted from a 7 meter open polyester outboard engine boat. As most beaches and mudflats are inaccessible from land or sea, counting was done by stopping the boat as close to the shores as possible and counting through telescope. Seaward side mudflats were difficult to count in this way due to the presence of waves. This posed problems when Figure 9 Route and count numbers in the Ndian Basin. La route et counting small waders and les dénombrements dans le basin du Ndian. inaccuracies in identification and total numbers can not be excluded. This was partly overcome by taking pictures with telelens (600*) and comparing pictures later with count results. In general counts by telescope or picture of larger species (Tern, Gull) were in reasonable agreement; smaller waders however could not be identified by picture. No attempts were made to count the mudflats by pirogue. In a previous visit to the Bakassi, Skeen and van der Waarde used this technique but found that this only allowed the observer a 10 meter closer access to the birds at low tide. Stranding a pirogue during ebb and counting from a fixed position at low tide would have given better views, but would have taken many days for each mudflat; this time was not available to the team. The only place where counting from a pirogue would have clearly improved counting results were on the outer Bakassi shores and Saviour Island, however there was no time to do this and safety would have been an important issue as these sites are far out into open sea. Several flocks of fishing Terns were observed flying through the estuary. These were counted by encountering the head of the flock and counting all birds flying past by binocular. Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 29 METHODS

Mount Cameroon coast. The coast between Limbe and Debundscha at the foot of Mount Cameroon was counted by car and on foot wherever beach access was possible. Large stretches of beach were walked or surveyed from higher view points using telescope. The rocky shoreline of Limbe was walked almost entirely to count the numerous waders feeding in the rock pools. The known freshwater lagoons along the coast were counted on foot. The Debundscha crater lake was counted on foot from the only access point to the lake, using Figure 10 Route and count numbers on the Mount Cameroon coast . La Route et les dénombrements dans la partie côtière du binoculars. Mont Cameroun. Wouri River. The Wouri River was counted by boat from Bonendale to the Wouri bridge, linking the residential Douala with the industrial zone. This area is a tidal mangrove swamp with extensive mudflats. At low tide birds were present on the mudflats but the waters are too shallow to effectively reach all mudflats and shores by boat. Therefore, several counts were made on foot after having reached the shores of the Wouri by car. In this case several areas were counted both from the water and from land, allowing comparison of both counts. In these cases the maximum count from either the boat team or the car team was taken for each species to avoid double counting. Only incidental access to the river was possible on foot, therefore most counts were made from the boat. However, the spot with the highest number of birds was counted from land and inaccessible by boat, therefore bird numbers in the mangroves are most likely underestimated. The Wouri mangroves were only incidentally counted. One full afternoon was spent boating through the upper intertidal area of the eastern side of the Wouri bridge by Zodiac counting birds on the shores of creeks and resting on roots in the mangroves. Only few birds were found this way. The car team tried several times to get access into the mangrove areas. Only very few birds were found in this way, although this resulted in the highest count of elusive species like African Finfoot. One exception was an abandoned sand quarry in the Douala industrial area that held considerable numbers of waterbirds, including species that were found nowhere else during the survey. The data from the Wouri River have been included in those of the Wouri estuary.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 30 METHODS

Wouri estuary. The Wouri estuary was counted on three separate days. The first day, the northern shores of the estuary from the Wouri River half way to the sea entrance at Cape Cameroon was counted by Zodiac. The advantage of the Zodiac was that the boat allows passage into shallow waters and proper counting of all birds on the exposed mudflats. These mudflats are flanking the mangrove shoreline and are not very wide, allowing close access to the birds. The Southern shores of the estuary were counted in the same way the next day. The outer fringes of the estuary and sandbanks out on open sea were counted from a 7 meter polyester open outboard engine motorboat. This boat was too deep (60 cm) to get close access to mudflats further inland Figure 11. Route and count numbers for the Wouri estuary which posed difficulties in counting and Wouri River . La route et les dénombrements dans l’estuaire du Wouri et dans la Fleuve du Wouri. smaller waders.

This problem was mostly overcome by stabilising the boat in the mud while using a telescope, or even disembarking into the mud with telescope to stabilise the view. The latter however was only partially successful as the observer would sink waist deep in mud. Possibly this has resulted in less accurate identification of smaller waders, total bird numbers however were accurately counted. On the sand banks in outer sea birds were counted by stranding the boat on beaches or mudflats and counting birds through a telescope. These areas hosted mostly larger birds (Pelicans, Terns) while waders were largely absent.

Sanaga River. The Sanaga River was counted in local wooden fishing

boats, equipped with an outboard Figure 12. Route and count numbers for the Sanaga River engine, from shore or with a 7 meter and Lake Ossa . La route et les dénombrements dans la Sanaga et le Complexe du Lac Ossa.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 31 METHODS polyester open outboard engine motorboat. Birds on both shores were counted while sailing, but most birds were confined to the sandbanks in the river. Landings were made on each sandbank and the whole sandbank was counted through a telescope. In case of sand dunes or other hidden areas, several landings were made on the same sandbank. In addition to the counting from the boat, the sandbanks between Edea and Dizangue were counted from the North shore by telescope; large sandbars were visited by pirogue to allow proper counting of birds at the South side of these sandbanks.

Southern coast Kribi to Campo. The coast from 10 km North of Kribi down to Campo on the border with Equatorial Guinea was counted on foot. Whenever beach access was possible, a 180º survey was done of the beach and the sea using telescope. It was estimated that a stretch of approximately 4 km of beach was accurately counted in this way, therefore after approximately every 5 km entrance to the beach was attempted. Between Kribi and Ebodje this was generally possible, but between Ebodje and Campo the beaches were poorly accessible, leading to beach landings every 10 km on average. The dotted red line indicated on the map shows the area that was surveyed in this way. The Ndian River was counted by telescope at the river mouth and at one location 5 km upstream.

Figure 13 Route and count numbers for the Southern coast . La route et les dénombrements dans la partie Sud de la côte Camerounaise .

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 32 METHODS 4.3 Completeness of the counts and interpretation of data

During this census, not all waterbirds on the Cameroonian coast were counted. The estimate of total waterbirds is calculated based on the proportion of each habitat that was counted and the proportion of birds actually present that were counted. Most of the tidal mudflats on the Cameroonian coast were counted in this survey. These mudflats are concentrated in the Bakassi peninsula and Wouri estuary, both areas were extensively counted by boat. All the main channels into the mangroves were counted for the first 1-5 kilometre, these main channels typically held narrow to reasonably wide muddy shores suitable for waders. Further into the mangroves, these channels became narrow with no muddy shores at all and mangroves grew straight into these channels. Beyond these channels extensive and totally impenetrable flooded mangrove forests are found. On few occasions these mangroves were entered in small pirogues, but never were significant numbers of waterbirds encountered. However, several of the mangroves are known to contain open water that may have housed significant numbers of waders. Based on satellite images, only in the Bakassi small areas of open water can be found within the mangroves, in the Wouri estuary these seem to be largely absent. Only a minor part of the mangrove forests (1-5%) was counted, and it is unknown how many birds were missed in this habitat. It is expected that high numbers of typical residents of these habitats are underestimated (Table 4.2), Sandy beaches were only partially counted. Between Bamusso and Debundscha in the Northern section some 10 km was not counted due to lack of time and almost complete absence of birds. Between Limbe and Cape Cameroon at the northern entrance of the Wouri estuary, and between the southern entrance of the Wouri estuary and Jojo II near the Sanaga estuary the coast was not counted due to lack of time. The coast south of the Sanaga estuary to 10 km north of Kribi was not counted due to inaccessibility of the beaches for motorised transport and rough seas, preventing use of the boat. Experiences in other similar habitats along the Cameroonian coast suggest that the missed parts of the coast were probably very low in waterbird numbers. The rocky shores around Limbe were completely counted on foot. The rocky beaches from Limbe to were not counted. These beaches have been visited earlier and found to contain very small numbers of waterbirds ( JvdW, personal observation ). Freshwater lagoons on the coast are few and small and they were all counted. The Lake Ossa complex was only partly counted due to the inaccessibility of most of the creeks. There is no motorised transport on the lake and hardly any roads around it and therefore the lake is difficult to survey. Freshwater rivers were not counted apart from the Sanaga River. Most rivers in Cameroon do not have sand bars like Sanaga and are completely bordered by forest leaving little suitable habitat for waterbirds. The exception is the Sanaga, which was completely counted from the Edea bridge to the sea.

The counted numbers of birds were used to derive estimates for the Cameroonian coast for each species. This was done in a transparent way, using several assumptions as is explained below.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 33 METHODS

Representativity and coverage of sites Firstly, an estimate was made for the coverage of each site that was visited. Mudflats could always be counted for 100%, but some freshwater lagoons were poorly accessible and could only be partly counted. The site coverage estimate was based on field observations on site and analysis of satellite maps. Each site was defined by the dominant habitat type, whenever the habitat changed during a count a new site was defined. This allowed later processing of data using habitat specific Figure 14 Larger sandbars in the Sanaga estuary were assumptions and corrections. approached by boat and counted on foot. Les grand bancs de sable de l’estuaire de la Sanaga ont été dénombres par When only a portion of a specific bateaux et sur pieds (JvdW). site was counted (see annex 1), the data were extrapolated from this count for the complete site. This resulted in site estimates.

Recording probability Secondly, not every single bird that was present was actually counted, some were missed. The chance that a bird is seen depends on bird size, behaviour and habitat. For each species of waterbird a chance was estimated that this species would have been seen in a certain habitat (annex 3) if it was actually present during the count. For some birds, this chance included an additional correction factor, due to the fact that these birds occur in groups. E.g. if you miss out on Curlew Sandpiper, you miss out on at least 10, whereas with a Green-backed Heron it’s one. Therefore the recording probability for these congregatory species was corrected to allow for groups rather than individuals of birds to be missed. The resulting so-called recording probability was estimated based on expert judgement of the authors of this chapter. Thus, the number of birds estimated of a given species in a site was corrected for the chance that this particular species could be seen in this particular habitat, yielding corrected site estimates.

Habitat coverage Thirdly, the coast of Cameroon was divided in regions and for each region, an estimate was made of how much of each habitat had been surveyed in that region. All the corrected site estimates for one particular habitat in one region (e.g. mudflats in the Ndian Basin) were added together and corrected for the percentage of this habitat that was surveyed in this region. It was assumed that within a region, the species composition of a given habitat was fairly constant and could be used to extrapolate data, but between regions habitats had different species composition that could not be used for extrapolation between regions.This resulted in species estimates per habitat per region.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 34 METHODS

(Sub) population estimates and ranges Habitat estimates per region were added to yield regional estimates. Finally, regional estimates were added to yield the species estimates for the Cameroonian coast. These estimates are absolute figures, giving an impression of accuracy. The estimates however lie within a range of likely figures, and this so-called range estimation was finally calculated based on species estimates.

The counted numbers were thus used to make an site estimate for each species:

Xa1 = (X / S f) / C x,a

Xa1 : Site estimate for species X at site 1 with habitat A X : Counted numbers of species X on site 1 (see annex 1)

Sf : Site coverage (fraction) (e.g. if 20% of a site is counted, the site coverage is 0.2, see annex 1)

Cx,a : Recording probability, the chance that species X can be seen in habitat A (dominant habitat of site) (see annex 3)

The site estimates for species 1 are used to calculate a habitat estimate:

Xa = (X a1 + X a2 + X a3 + X a4 + X an ...) / A f

Xa : estimate for species X in habitat A

Xa2 : Site estimate for species X at site 2 with habitat A

Af : Fraction of habitat A that was actually surveyed (see annex 4)

The habitat estimates were added to obtain regional estimates for each species:

Xa + X b + X c + X n… = X reg1

Xb : Estimate for species X in habitat B

Xreg1 : Estimate for species X in a region 1

The regional estimates were added to obtain coastal estimates for each species:

Xreg1 + X reg2 + X reg3 + X regn … = X tot

Xtot : Coastal estimate for species X

The coastal estimate for each species were finally used as a basis to determine a species range estimate. This range estimate is defined as the likely range within which the total number of a species on the complete coast of Cameroon will fall. The coastal estimate was set as the minimum of the range. The maximum of the range was set at fixed percentages of the estimate, depending on the species. When only few birds were seen, underestimation was likely and the upper limit of the range was higher than when many birds had been counted. If birds had been counted in large Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 35 METHODS groups and a group could easily have been missed, the upper limit was also higher. The upper range was calculated from this estimate:

Ex = X tot to a*X tot

Ex : Coastal ranges for species X ax: range factor for species X (see Annex 5)

Estimated population sizes for the Cameroonian coast for each observed waterbird species are discussed in chapter 6, bird accounts. Actual counted numbers are shown in annex 1.

Figure 15 The population on the lower Sanaga River is mainly engaged in fishing. La population de la partie aval du fleuve Sanaga fait beaucoup dans la pêche (JvdW).

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 36 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON 5. COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON

5.1 Description per species group

5.1.1 Cormorants to Ibises The bird counts were used to derive estimates for the separate regions and the complete coast, following the procedure described in paragraph 4.4 and shown below. Actual counted numbers are presented in appendix 2.

Table 4 Minimum estimated numbers of Cormorants to Ibises along the Cameroonian coast, divided into regions. Estimations minimales des Cormoran jusqu’à Ibis le long de la côte du Cameroon, répartis en sous-régions. Mount Coast Coast Ndian Cameroon Wouri Sanaga South lower upper Species basin coast estuary river coast estimate estimate Long-tailed Cormorant 103 25 136 203 0 467 701 African Darter 124 0 151 67 0 343 1,028 Great White Pelican 196 0 10 0 0 206 308 Pink-backed Pelican 40 0 120 0 0 160 239 Squacco Heron 133 0 518 0 0 651 1,952 Cattle Egret 0 0 686 0 198 884 1,326 Green-backed Heron 21 4 30 4 7 67 201 Western Reef Heron 105 23 62 2 0 192 289 Little Egret 1,448 30 2,774 226 57 4,535 13,605 Intermediate Egret 0 0 82 1 0 83 125 Great White Egret 296 0 506 2 0 804 1,206 Purple Heron 0 2 26 22 0 50 75 Grey Heron 383 33 362 11 0 789 1,183 Black-headed Heron 0 3 2 2 0 7 20 Goliath Heron 3 0 2 0 0 5 7 Hamerkop 3 0 13 3 0 19 29 Yellow-billed Stork 1 0 12 0 0 13 20 African Open bill Stork 0 0 0 332 0 332 498 Woolly-necked Stork 23 0 12 4 0 39 58 Hadada Ibis 0 0 0 2 0 2 3 Sacred Ibis 33 4 146 1 0 185 277

Total 2,912 125 5,650 882 262 9,831 20,107

Pelicans, Herons and Ibises form the third biggest group of waterbirds along the coast of Cameroon. The most common birds are Little Egrets, who are especially abundant in the mangroves of the Ndian basin and the Wouri estuary. Most of the other Herons and Egrets can be found all along the coast, mostly singly or in little groups. Exceptions are the true fresh water species like Purple Heron and Black-headed Heron who were only seen inland. A large group of

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 37 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON African Openbill Storks was present in the Sanaga River where they feed on bivalves in the sandbanks.

5.1.2 Ducks, rails and finfoots The numbers of Ducks, Rails and Finfoots on the Cameroonian coast were low. A small party of Little Grebes was observed on the Debundscha fresh water crater lake on the Mount Cameroon coast. African Finfoots were mainly observed in mangroves and appear to be relatively common, but extremely illusive and therefore most likely under-recorded. Ducks were a Figure 16 African Open-bill Stork (Anastomus lamelligerus ) rarity in the region and do not feeding on bivalves in the lower Sanaga River. Les Bec-ouvert Africain (Anastomus lamelligerus) se nourrissant des appear to frequent the area in mollusques dans la partie aval de la Sanaga (JvdW). larger numbers. In the Lake Ossa area, the Hartlaub’s Duck was regularly observed. This near-threatened species was always observed in small streams in the forest or near Lake Ossa and Lake Tisongo. Given the relatively small area that was surveyed in this habitat, the calculated estimates are much higher than the actually observed numbers but can still represent under-or over estimates of the actual populations.

Table 5 Minimum estimated numbers of Ducks, Rails and Finfoots along the Cameroonian coast, divided into regions. Estimations minimales des Canards, R âles et Gr ébifoulques le long de la côte du Cameroon, répartis en sous-régions. Mount Coast Coast Ndian Cameroon Wouri Sanaga South lower upper Species basin coast estuary river coast estimate estimate Little Grebe 0 25 0 0 0 25 38 White-faced Whistling Duck 0 0 16 0 0 16 24 Spur-winged Goose 0 0 0 27 0 27 40 Hartlaub’s Duck 0 0 20 160 0 180 540 African Pygmy Goose 0 0 0 80 0 80 240 Black Crake 0 0 0 30 0 30 90 African Finfoot 40 0 48 4 0 92 276

Total 40 25 84 301 0 450 875

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 38 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON 5.1.3 Waders The waders that were observed can roughly be divided in two groups: the Palaearctic migrants that visit the Wouri estuary and the Ndian basin, and the Afrotropical species that are resident on

Table 6 Minimum estimated numbers of waders along the Cameroonian coast, divided into regions. Estimations minimales des limicols le long de la côte du Cameroon, répartis en sous-régions. Mount Coast Coast Ndian Cameroon Wouri Sanaga South lower upper Species basin coast estuary river coast estimate estimate African Jacana 0 9 152 68 0 229 686 Black-winged Stilt 0 0 10 0 0 10 15 Pied Avocet 25 0 0 0 0 25 38 Senegal Thick-knee 0 0 14 6 0 20 30 Rock Pratincole 0 0 0 120 0 120 180 Grey Pratincole 0 0 0 807 0 807 1,211 Little Ringed Plover 0 0 8 24 0 32 97 Ringed Plover 457 5 37 0 0 499 748 White-fronted Plover 0 0 0 42 0 42 64 Grey Plover 1,350 3 49 11 0 1,412 2,119 White-headed Lapwing 0 0 1 84 0 85 128 Sanderling 320 0 44 2 0 366 550 Little Stint 0 0 0 58 0 58 87 Curlew Sandpiper 1,575 0 289 0 0 1,863 2,795 Ruff 0 0 4 0 0 4 6 Common Snipe 0 0 4 1 0 5 8 Black-tailed Godwit 1 0 1 0 0 3 4 Bar-tailed Godwit 8 0 0 0 0 8 11 Whimbrel 175 10 109 0 0 295 884 Eurasian Curlew 203 0 133 13 0 349 524 Common Redshank 1,113 0 326 0 0 1,439 2,158 Marsh Sandpiper 25 0 107 1 0 133 400 Common Greenshank 1,761 3 567 89 0 2,419 3,629 Green Sandpiper 0 0 10 2 0 12 18 Wood Sandpiper 0 0 188 6 0 193 290 Common Sandpiper 294 70 709 93 134 1,301 1,952 Ruddy Turnstone 48 0 0 6 0 53 80

Total 7,355 100 2,762 1,432 134 11,783 23,103 bold underlined : More than 1% of the regional or global population [Delany&Scott, 2006] was present during the count, passing a Ramsar criterion for wetland of international importance. the Sanaga River. The most common Palaearctic migrants are Common Greenshank, Curlew Sandpiper, Common Redshank and Grey Plover. The highest numbers were always found in the Ndian Basin which appears to be an important wintering station for these species. An abandoned

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 39 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON sand quarry near Douala held reasonable numbers of Wood Sandpiper and Marsh Sandpiper and other species that were not observed anywhere else. Possibly this type of habitat and therefore these species were under-recorded in the survey. The Sanaga has a very typical avifauna, with notably large populations of Grey Pratincole and White-fronted Plover. This was also the only place where Little Stint was recorded. Part of the Sanaga and the Southern coast was counted in early March and may not reflect the midwinter situation, but the numbers of Palearctic migrants counted in these areas were very low and do not significantly affect the totals for the Cameroon coast. The number of Grey Pratincole exceeds (3%) the 1% population level [Delany&Scott, 2006] and therefore the Sanaga River is of international importance for this species.

5.1.4 Gulls, Terns and African Skimmer This group is the most dominant group of waterbirds on the Cameroonian coast. Royal Terns were found all along the coast, but were most numerous in the Ndian Basin. In this area Royal Terns reach the 1 % population level [Delany&Scott, 2006] and therefore the Ndian Basin is of international importance for this species. Royal Terns were mostly found in roosts on sand banks in the sea. In the Ndian Basin they were found in a large roost on a beach, inaccessible from land by the mangroves, and in the company of Lesser Black-backed Gull. In the Wouri estuary, they were found on sand banks on the southern beach entrance to the estuary, and on a large sand/mudflat in the middle of the estuary entrance, in the company of large numbers of Pink-backed Pelicans and White Pelicans. At the Sanaga estuary, they were found at the sand banks at the sea side of the estuary. In many cases small numbers of Caspian Terns were found among the Royal Terns. One large group of Little Terns was found in the Ndian Basin, roosting on mudflats of Saviour Island. During high-tide these Little Terns could be seen flying into the estuary fishing on the larger creeks in the mangroves. In the Ndian Basin Little Terns reach the 1 % population level [Delany&Scott, 2006] and therefore the Ndian Basin is of international importance for this species. Black Terns were common in the channels in the Ndian Basin and on roosts on Saviour Island. On a visit on March 27 2007 by Jaap van der Waarde to the Ndian Basin [van der Waarde, 2007] numbers of Black Terns had increased to at least 850. These very likely included migrants from further south, indicating that the area is important both as a wintering and a stop-over site. Near Bamusso in the Ndian Basin, one large group of African Skimmer was found roosting on a sandbank near the coast. This group consisted of 1870 individuals, and appears to be the largest flock of African Skimmer ever recorded. The group seems to move around, as a visit two days after recording the large group, a smaller group of some 300 individuals was present on the same sandbar while the rest of the group could not be found.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 40 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON

Table 7 Estimated numbers of Gulls, Terns and African Skimmer. Estimations minimales des Goelands, Sternes, Guifettes et Bec-en-ciseaux d’Afrique le long de la côte du Cameroon, répartis en sous-régions. Mount Coast Coast Ndian Cameroon Wouri Sanaga South lower upper Species basin coast estuary river coast estimate estimate Lesser Black-backed Gull 379 0 0 1 0 380 570 Yellow-legged Gull 1 0 0 0 0 1 2 Gull-billed Tern 4 0 0 0 0 4 6 Caspian Tern 6 0 32 64 0 102 307 Royal Tern 3,423 0 267 631 7 4,329 6,493 Sandwich Tern 105 0 9 0 0 114 171 Common Tern 1 0 0 0 0 1 2 Little Tern 741 0 0 0 0 741 1,111 Black Tern 640 0 0 31 1,118 1,789 5,368 African Skimmer 1,782 0 106 385 0 2,273 3,410

Total 7,083 0 414 1,112 1,125 9,734 17,439 bold underlined : More than 1% of the regional or global population [Delany&Scott, 2006] was present during the count, passing a Ramsar criterion for wetland of international importance.

Van der Waarde [van der Waarde, 2007] counted a group of 814 African Skimmer on exactly the same beach but not on Barak Island, Saviour Island or the other beaches in the Ndian Basin. This seems to be a very important roosting site for this species. African Skimmer was also recorded in smaller numbers in the Wouri Estuary, and one large group of 350 individuals was seen on the Sanaga River. The 1% level [Delany&Scott, 2006] of African Skimmer was exceeded at the Ndian Basin (18%), Wouri Estuary (1%) and Sanaga River (4%), making all these areas of international importance for this near-threatened species.

5.1.5 Total waterbirds The total number of waterbirds present on the Cameroonian coast in the palearctic mid-winter period is estimated between 31.000 and 61.000 birds. More than half of these birds are present in the Ndian basin, by far the most important area for waterbirds on the Cameroon coast. The Wouri estuary and the lower Sanaga River come second and third in total water bird numbers. The sandy and rocky beaches around Mount Cameroon in the North and South of Kribi are relatively poor in waterbirds. Cameroon appears to be very important for two afrotropical species, the African Skimmer and the Grey Pratincole, while Little Terns and Royal Terns also pass the 1% population criterion [Delany&Scott, 2006]. The Ndian basin forms one of the largest pristine mangrove estuaries in the region and holds relatively high numbers of rare water birds like e.g. African Finfoot. The lower Sanaga River together with its estuary forms a unique and largely pristine river system with a higjly valuable bird population, including large populations of Grey Pratincole and possibly one of the largest breeding populations of the near-threatened African Skimmer. In conclusion, the

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 41 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON coastal wetlands of Cameroon are used by high numbers of palearctic waterbirds and contain important populations of afrotropical species of waterbirds.

Table 8 Total numbers of waterbirds estimated on the Cameroonian coast. L’estimation totale des oiseaux d’eaux le long de la côte Camerounaise. Mount Coast Coast Ndian Cameroon Wouri Sanaga South lower upper Species basin coast estuary river coast estimate estimate Total 17,389 250 8,910 3,727 1,522 31,798 61,524

Figure 17 Black Tern (Chlidonias ) on the beach in Kribi. Les Guifette noire (Chlidonias niger) sur la plage de Kribi (JvdW).

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 42 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON 5.2 Species accounts

In this chapter all the 65 waterbird species observed during the waterbird census in January and March 2007 are described. For each species its distribution in Cameroon and Africa is mentioned. Notable differences or agreements with previously reported data from literature are discussed.

5.2.1 Cormorants to Ibises Long-tailed Cormorant Phalacrocorax africanus Cormoran africain The Long-tailed Cormorant is a resident and common inhabitant of freshwater and brackish wetlands throughout. The species was seen in all visited areas, the largest numbers (68) were observed in the Wouri estuary. Long-tailed Cormorants did not tend to cluster in groups and were found to be dispersed throughout all wetland habitats that were visited. The large concentration (282) of Long-tailed Cormorant found by West et al [2002] in the Wouri mangroves was not found. The estimate for Long-tailed Cormorant on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 450 and 700 birds.

African Darter Anhinga rufa Anhinga d'Afrique African Darters were found singly along the freshwater habitats like the Sanaga River and the upstream mangroves of the Wouri. The species is often skulking in trees and bushes on the banks of rivers and creeks and easily overlooked, despite its considerable size. The estimate for African Darter on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 350 and 1000 birds. This wide range reflects the fact that this species is most abundant in the mangroves, but this habitat was marginally surveyed.

Great White Pelican Pelecanus onocrotalus Pélican blanc The species breeds from Southeast Europe to West- central Asia and in Subsaharan Africa. Populations breeding in Africa are largely sedentary, undertaking irregular local movements related to changes in feeding conditions. The West African population extends across the Sahelian zone from Mauritania and Senegal as far east as Cameroon [Scott, 2002]. The largest concentration of Figure 18 Great White Pelican (Pelecanus onocrotalus) on Great White Pelicans was found Barak Island in the Ndian Basin. Les Pelican blanc (Pelecanus onocrotalus) dans le Barak Island de la Bassin du Ndian (JvdW). Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 43 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON in the Ndian basin where a total number of 159 birds was seen, the biggest group of 130 birds on Saviour Island. A smaller group of 20 birds was seen on Barrak Island. Smaller numbers (10) were found in the Wouri estuary, where they were outnumbered by Pink-backed Pelicans. This compares well with earlier counts in the Wouri estuary that yielded 11 Great White Pelicans and many more Pink-backed Pelicans [van der Waarde & Anye, 2006]. A census in 1999 however found more Great White Pelicans (61) than Pink-backed Pelicans [West et al , 2002] in the Wouri estuary. A field trip to the Ndian basin in 2005 yielded more than 10 Great White Pelicans and some Pink- backed Pelicans, but exact numbers were not counted [Skeen, 2005]. Earlier reports from visits to the area between 1978 and 1994 did not yield Great White Pelicans [Thomas, 1995; Green, 1996]. The estimate for Great White Pelican on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 200 and 300 birds.

Pink-backed Pelican Pelecanus rufescens Pélican gris The Pink-backed Pelican breeds widely in Africa south of the Sahara and also in south-western Arabia. Populations in West Africa are rains migrants, moving north in the wet season and south in the dry season. The world population is found in tropical Africa & Southwest Arabia and estimated at 50,000-100,000 birds. The population is thought to be stable. In the African Waterbird Census in January 1998 there were 2,780 birds found in West Africa, 124 in Central Africa, 2,851 in Eastern Africa, and 147 in Southern Africa, giving a total of 5,902 [Scott, 2002]. In the present census a total of 153 birds was found, mostly in the Wouri estuary. This compares well with earlier surveys which found 159 [van der Waarde & Anye, 2006], 27 [West et al , 2002], and 30 individuals [Ajonina et al , 2004]. The Ndian basin holds lower numbers of Pink-backed Pelicans, as this survey found only 33 individuals while Green [Green, 1996] reported regular sightings of Pink-backed Pelicans with a maximum of 35. The estimate for Pink-backed Pelican on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 160 and 230 birds.

Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides Crabier chevelu The subspecies A. r. paludivaga breeds widely in Africa south of the Sahara. Populations breeding in Subsaharan Africa are thought to be mainly sedentary, although some local seasonal movements are known to occur. This subpopulation is estimated at 100,000-500,000 and is considered stable [Scott, 2002]. The Squacco Herons showed a very patchy distribution in this survey, presumably linked to the quality of the mudflats they were feeding on. The highest densities were found on Barrak Island in the Ndian basin and on mudflats in the Wouri upstream from the Wouri bridge in Douala. As these habitats are largely inaccessible, it is presumed that the numbers of this species are largely underestimated in this survey. The estimate for Squacco Heron on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 650 and 1950 birds. This wide range reflects the fact that this species is most abundant in the mangroves, but this habitat was marginally surveyed.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 44 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis Héron garde-boeufs The nominate race breeds widely in Africa south of the Sahara, in Madagascar and also in Northwest Africa, Southwest Europe, the East Mediterranean, Iraq and the Caspian region. The species is abundant throughout much of the tropical regions of Africa. At least 250,000 occur in tropical West Africa during the boreal winter [Scott, 2002]. In this survey only small numbers of Cattle Egrets were counted, almost all in Douala on the trail that is used by the cattle traders bringing cows into Douala for slaughter. The roost of more than 8,000 cattle egrets that is mentioned by Ajonina et al [Ajonina et al , 2004] was not found in this survey but was possibly overlooked. The estimate for Cattle Egret on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 800 and 1300 birds.

Green-backed Heron Butorides striatus Héron strié The Green-backed Heron was scarce throughout the region and only found at the edges of mangrove forests on exposed mudflats. This bird is most likely undercounted due to its inconspicuous behaviour and habitat and may be quite common throughout the range. The estimate for Green-backed Heron on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 60 and 200 birds.

Western Reef Egret Egretta gularis Aigrette à gorge blanche The nominate form occurs in coastal West Africa from Mauritania east and south to the Gulf of Guinea islands and Gabon, and also in the Inner Delta of the Niger in . E. gularis is thought to be at least partially migratory on the West African coast. The entire population of nominate gularis in West Africa is estimated between 10,000 and 100,000 and probably stable. Over 3,100 were counted in West Africa in January 1998 [Scott, 2002]. In this survey the Western Reef Egret was a regular but scarce observation, the highest numbers (44) were found in the Ndian basin. The estimate for Western Reef Egret on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 190 and 290 birds.

Little Egret Egretta garzetta Aigrette garzette The Little Egret breeds widely across Southern Eurasia and in Africa south of the Sahara, and winters in Southern Europe, the Middle East and Africa south to the equator. The species appears to be mainly sedentary over much of its range in Subsaharan Africa, but is known to be migratory in Southern Africa. Three populations are recognised, the European and West Asian breeding populations (140,000-210,000) mixing extensively with the African population (100,000-500,000) during the boreal winter [Scott, 2002]. The Little Egret is a common resident and is found throughout the Cameroonian coast. With more than 1,500 counted individuals it was the most common heron in the count, with the highest numbers in the Ndian basin and Wouri estuary. Little Egrets were found not only on mudflats but also deep inside the mangrove forests, therefore the

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 45 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON total numbers are most likely underestimated. Ajonina et al [2004] report significantly higher numbers (4,729) of Little Egrets in the Wouri estuary. The estimate for Little Egret on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 4,500 and 13,600 birds. This wide range reflects the fact that this species is most abundant in the mangroves, but this habitat was marginally surveyed.

Intermediate Egret Mesophoyx intermedia Aigrette intermédiare The subspecies brachyrhyncha breeds widely in Africa south of the Sahara and undertakes local movements and possibly regular migrations in many parts of its range. The sub-Saharan population is estimated between 25,000 and 100,000 individuals [Scott, 2002]. In this survey only few (12) Intermediate Egrets were found, mainly in the Wouri estuary. This species seems to be more confined to true freshwater habitats and marshes which are scarce on the Cameroon coast. Incidental sightings have been reported from the Sanaga River and Mile 6 beach [Martinez et al , 1996; Fosse, 1997] The estimate for Intermediate Egret on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 80 and 125 birds.

Great Egret Casmerodius albus Grande aigrette E. a. melanorhynchos breeds throughout Africa south of the Sahara and appears to be largely sedentary except for some post-breeding dispersal. The population of this subspecies is estimated at 100,000-500,000. High counts have included 6,205 from West Africa, and 1,901 from Cameroon. The species also occurs in Central Africa, where it is most likely to be heavily under-recorded [Scott, 2002]. A total of 228 Great Egrets was counted in this survey, roughly evenly distributed over the Ndian and Wouri estuaries. These counts are significantly lower than Ajonina et al [West et al , 2002] who recorded over 750 individuals in the Wouri estuary alone. The estimate for Great Egret on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 800 and 1,200 birds.

Purple Heron Ardea purpurea Héron pourpré The nominate subspecies occurs widely in Africa, Southern Europe and Southwest Asia east to Kazakhstan. The populations breeding in Subsaharan Africa appear to be mainly sedentary. The Western Europe & West Mediterranean/West Africa population is estimated at 12,000-13,200 birds, the population in Tropical Africa at 75,000-100,000 individuals [Scott, 2002]. In this survey Purple Herons were very scarce observations, in total 7 birds were counted. This is most likely due to its preference for freshwater lagoons which are scarce along the coast of Cameroon. The estimate for Purple Heron on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 50 and 75 birds.

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea Héron cendré The populations breeding in Subsaharan Africa are mainly sedentary and estimated at 100,000 – 1,000,000. Regional totals in the African Waterbird Census in January 1998 were 12,000 in West Africa and 2,000 in Central Africa [Scott, 2002]. Grey Heron can be found all along the

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 46 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON Cameroonian coast and seem to inhabit a range of habitats. A total of 308 birds were counted, mainly in the Ndian and Wouri estuaries. Ajonina et al [West et al , 2002] counted almost 10 times as many Grey Heron in the Wouri estuary than were found in this count (1,271 vs 126). The estimate for Grey Heron on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 790 and 1,180 birds.

Black-headed Heron Ardea melanocephala Héron mélanocéphale The Black-headed Heron occurs widely throughout Africa south of the Sahara. The population is estimated at 100,000-500,000 [Scott, 2002]. In this count it was only observed 4 times, on fresh water habitats in the Wouri and Sanaga Rivers and in a fresh water lagoon near Limbe. The estimate for Black-headed Heron on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 5 and 10 birds.

Goliath Heron Ardea goliath Héron goliath The Goliath Heron is widespread in sub-Saharan Africa. The Goliath Heron was observed only twice, once on a tidal mudflat in the Wouri estuary and once on a tidal mudflat in the Ndian basin. In the latter location it was also regularly observed in low numbers in the 1980-1990s [Thomas, 1995; Green, 1996]. Figure 19 Goliath Heron (Ardea goliath) was a scarce resident The estimate for Goliath Heron in the Wouri estuary and Ndian Basin. Le Héron goliath (Ardea goliath) est une espese rare dans l’estuaire du Wouri et du on the Cameroonian coast in this basin du Ndian (JvdW). survey is between 5 and 10 birds.

Hamerkop Scopus umbretta Ombrette africaine The Hamerkop is a common resident throughout sub-Saharan Africa, both at the shore and further inland in various freshwater habitats. In this survey Hamerkop was regularly observed singly or in pairs and the highest numbers (13) were found in the Wouri estuary. The estimate for Hamerkop on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 20 and 30 birds.

Yellow-billed Stork Mycteria ibis Tantale ibis The species occurs widely in Africa south of the Sahara. Populations in Southern Africa and West Africa are migratory, the species occurring in Southern Africa are mainly non-breeding migrants

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 47 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON during the wet season (October-April) [Scott, 2002]. In this survey most Yellow-billed Storks were observed in the Wouri estuary, 8 on the mudflats and 2 in a quarry nearby. The estimate for Yellow- billed Stork on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 15 and 20 birds.

African Openbill Stork Anastomus lamelligerus Bec-ouvert africain The nominate form breeds in Africa south of the Sahara, mainly south of the equator, and occurs north of the equator chiefly as a dry season visitor (November-May). The African Openbill Stork was only seen on the Sanaga River, where it is abundant and feeds on the bivalves on the sandbanks. The total population on the Cameroonian coast is most likely completely confined to the Sanaga River and is estimated between 300 and 500 birds.

Woolly-necked Stork Ciconia episcopus Cigogne épiscopale The subspecies microscelis occurs widely in Africa south of the Sahara, from Senegal west to Sudan and south to north- eastern South Africa, Botswana, northern Namibia and . It is known to be migratory, especially in the central and southern parts of its range, but the movements are poorly Figure 20 Wooly-necked Stork (Ciconia episcopus) was a understood [Scott, 2002]. During common resident in the Ndian Basin. Les Cigogne épiscopale the survey it was found in the (Ciconia episcopus) est une espèce régulière dans le basin du Ndian (JvdW). Wouri estuary, the Ndian Basin and near the Sanaga River estuary, always in low numbers. The estimate for Woolly-necked Stork on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 40 and 60 birds.

Hadada Ibis Bostrychia hagedash Ibis hagedash Hadada Ibis is a common resident of freshwater habitats throughout Central and South Africa. One pair of Hadada Ibis was seen flying over the Sanaga River. The estimate for Hadada Ibis on the Cameroonian coast is less than 10 birds.

Sacred Ibis Threskiornis aethiopicus Ibis sacré The nominate race is widespread in Africa south of the Sahara, from Senegal east to Ethiopia and western Somalia and south to southern South Africa. In Subsaharan Africa, the species is a rains migrant, regularly undertaking movements of up to several hundred kilometres to breed during the

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 48 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON rains. There is a substantial movement of birds out of Southern African into Central Africa during the austral winter [Scott, 2002]. Sacred Ibis was mainly seen in the Wouri estuary and the Ndian Basin, the latter had the highest number of 44 individuals counted. The estimate for Sacred Ibis on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 185 and 280 birds.

5.2.2 Ducks, rails and finfoots Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis Grèbe castagneux The subspecies T. r. capensis occurs in Southwest Asia and Africa south of the Sahara and is largely sedentary [Scott, 2002]. Little Grebes can be found on a variety of fresh water habitats in Cameroon including crater lakes. In this survey they were only once seen, on a crater lake on the flanks of Mount Cameroon near the coast of Limbe. This is a typical habitat for this species in Cameroon, as it can be found all along the Cameroon Mountains in crater lakes, on Lake Oku in the Bamenda Highlands even several thousands of birds were observed [van der Waarde, 2006]. The estimate for Little Grebe on the Cameroonian coast is between 25 and 38 birds.

White-faced Whistling-Duck Dendrocygna viduata Dendrocygne veuf The species occurs widely in Africa south of the Sahara and in Madagascar. Some populations, including those in Madagascar, appear to be mainly sedentary, while others are migratory, undertaking long movements during the wet season, especially in West Africa and Southern Africa. Over much of Africa, the species has adapted well to man-made wetlands and locally has become a serious pest on rice-fields. It has probably benefited from the protection of extensive areas [Scott, 2002]. One small party of White-faced Whistling Duck was seen at an abandoned quarry near Douala. The estimate for White-faced Whistling Duck on the Cameroonian coast is between 16 and 24 birds.

Spur-winged Goose Plectropterus gambensis Oie-armée de Gambie The subspecies P. g. gambensis occurs from Gambia to Sudan and south to Zimbabwe [Scott, 2002]. Two individuals were seen on a freshwater marsh on Lake Ossa. The estimate for Spur- winged Goose on the Cameroonian coast is between 27 and 40 birds.

Hartlaub's Duck Pteronetta hartlaubii Canard de Hartlaub Hartlaub’s Duck is a resident of forested rivers in West and Central African lowland forests. The central African population is estimated between 25.000 and 100.000 individuals [Scott, 2002]. In this survey a total number of 7 birds were observed. It was earlier estimated that the population of this species in the lake Ossa complex could be more than 1000 pairs [Dowsett-Lemaire & Dowsett, 2001]. It is unclear whether our data confirm this estimate. However, Hartlaub’s Duck is an elusive species that can only be observed by traversing large numbers of small creeks throughout the region. This has not been tried, therefore the number of Hartlaub’s Duck can easily be underestimated. Detailed population surveys of this bird are needed to better estimate the numbers Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 49 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON and conservation status of this near-threatened species. The estimate for Hartlaub’s Duck on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 180 and 540 birds. This estimate is much higher than the observed number of birds, due to the fact that only a very small proportion of suitable habitat was surveyed.

African Pygmy-goose Nettapus auritus Anserelle naine The species occurs widely in Africa south of the Sahara, and is nomadic and/or migratory over most of its range, but its movements are poorly understood [Scott, 2002]. One pair was observed in a little flooded valley next to the Douala-Edea road. The estimate for African Pygmee Goose on the Cameroonian is between 80 and 240 birds. This is much higher than the actually observed number of birds and due to the extremely limited coverage of this particular habitat.

Black Crake Amaurornis flavirostris Râle à bec jaune The Black Crake is one of the commonest and most widespread crakes in Africa, occurring widely south of the Sahara to South Africa. It is largely sedentary over much of its range, but appears to be locally migratory, especially in the drier parts of its range in Southern Africa, where it appears with the rains and disappears in the dry season. It is probably also a rains migrant in the northern parts of its range (Ghana, Nigeria and the Sahel zone of Sudan), and may be at least partly migratory in East Africa [Scott, 2002]. One bird was heard calling from a reedbed on the Sanaga River. Small numbers have been seen on earlier visits to the Mile Six Beach near Limbe [van der Waarde, personal observation]. The estimate for Black Crake on the Cameroonian is between 30 and 90 birds.

African Finfoot Podica senegalensis Grébifoulque d'Afrique The nominate senegalensis is a common resident in suitable habitat in most of Cameroon, while the subspecies camerounensis is confined to the Southern parts of Cameroon [Borrow & Demey, 2001]. One African Finfoot was seen in mangroves in the Ndian Figure 21 African Finfoot (Podica senegalensis) was found mainly inside the mangroves and on rivers. Le Grébifoulque d'Afrique (Podica Basin, one in mangroves in senegalensis) á été trouvé dans la mangroves et des rivières (JvdW). the Wouri estuary and 3 on creeks near the Sanaga River. Van der Waarde [2007] reported 5 African Finfoots on the Ndian River between Mundemba and the Rio del Rey channel, indicating that this species may be more common in suitable habitat but is difficult to see. The estimate for African Finfoot on the Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 50 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 90 and 275 birds, but this is most likely an underestimate.

5.2.3 Waders African Jacana Actophilornis africanus Jacana à poitrine dorée African Jacana is a common resident of freshwater habitats throughout sub-Saharan Africa. The highest numbers (21) were found in the upstream parts of the Wouri estuary, lower numbers were present in the Sanaga area (9) and freshwater lagoons near Limbe (4). The estimate for African Jacana on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 225 and 685 birds. The wide range reflects the fact that the bird occupies a habitat that was sparsely visited during the survey.

Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus Echasse blanche The Black-winged Stilt breeds widely in Southern Europe, Africa and Southwest Asia. Most populations breeding in Europe and Southwest Asia are migratory, wintering south to North Africa and across the Sahara to the northern tropics (Senegal, Chad and Sudan), but the populations breeding in southern Spain, Iraq and southern Iran may be at least partly sedentary. Some populations breeding in Subsaharan Africa appear to be migratory, but the movements are poorly understood [Scott, 2002]. A small group (5) of Black-winged Stilts was observed in an abandoned quarry near Douala. This type of habitat was only surveyed once but Black-winged Stilt is probably quite rare on the Cameroonian coast. The estimate for Black-winged Stilt on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 10 and 15 birds.

Pied Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta Avocette élégante The species is widely but patchily distributed in Western Eurasia, Northwest Africa, and Eastern and Southern Africa. The species appears to be a non-breeding dry season visitor to Zimbabwe, and an occasional visitor in small numbers to southern Zambia. The population breeding in Eastern Africa is partly sedentary, but some movements are known to occur, and non-breeding birds occasionally wander to Uganda, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, , Rwanda and northern Zambia [Scott, 2002]. A small group of Pied Avocets was observed on mudflats near the mouth of the Rio del Rey in the Ndian Basin. During a visit to the area on March 30, a group of 114 individuals was counted on Saviour Island, presumably already migrants heading North [van der Waarde, 2007]. Similar numbers were seen by Green at the same location [Green, 1996]. The winter estimate for Pied Avocet on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 25 and 40 birds.

Senegal Thick-knee Burhinus senegalensis Oedicnème du Sénégal The subspecies B. s. senegalensis occurs from Senegal to Chad and the Central African Republic. Some populations are sedentary, others are rains migrants, moving northwards in the Sahelian zone during the wet season [Scott, 2002]. Senegal Thick-knee was only found in freshwater Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 51 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON habitats. On sandbanks in the Sanaga River the bird appeared in pairs, presumably breeding residents, while a small party of 7 individuals was seen in an abandoned quarry near Douala, presumably migrants. The estimate for Senegal Thick-knee on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 20 and 30 birds.

Grey Pratincole Glareola cinerea

Glaréole grise Figure 22 Senegal Thicknee (Burhinus senegalensis) is a Grey Pratincole is confined to West common resident on the lower Sanaga River. Le Oedicnème du Sénégal (Burhinus senegalensis) est une and Central Africa. The nominate race espèce régulière dans la partie aval de la Sanaga (JvdW). undertakes fairly extensive movements during the rainy season, moving down the major rivers to coastal estuaries and along the to Lake Chad [Scott, 2002]. Grey Pratincole was only found on the Sanaga River, where they are common and one of the dominant species on the sand banks. Birds were present singly or in pairs. High bird densities were observed, the most densily populated sandbank contained over 150 individuals on a sandbank of less than 300 meter long. The estimate Figure 23 The Grey Pratincole ( Glareola cinerea) for Grey Pratincole on the population on the lower Sanaga River exceeds the 1% Cameroonian coast in this survey is population criterion. L’estimation de la population des Glaréole grise (Glareola cinerea) dans la partie aval de la between 800 and 1,200 birds, almost Sanaga dépasse le critère de 1% pour les site Ramsar exclusively confined to the Sanaga (JvdW). River.

Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius Pluvier petit-gravelot The subspecies curonicus breeds widely across Western Eurasia and in Northwest Africa, and winters mainly in Africa south of the Sahara, generally north of the equator but occasionally south to Zambia [Scott, 2002]. Little Ringed Plover was observed on a muddy sandbank in the Sanaga River (22) and a small group (4) in an abandoned quarry near Douala. The estimate for Little Ringed Plover on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 30 and 100 birds.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 52 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON Common Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula Pluvier grand-gravelot The three subspecies of Common Ringed Plover all winter in Africa, the subspecies psammodroma is most likely the one that can be found in Cameroon [Delany & Scott, 2006]. The species was only found in coastal habitats during this survey, with the biggest group (355) found roosting with Royal Terns on a muddy coastal beach in the Ndian Basin. Smaller numbers were found on Saviour Island, in the Wouri estuary and on the coast near Limbe. West et al [2002] report Common Ringed Plovers from the Wouri estuary but not from the Ndian Basin. Green [1996] reported tens of Common Ringed Plovers in the Ndian Basin. The estimate for Common Ringed Plover on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 500 and 750 birds.

White-fronted Plover Charadrius marginatus Pluvier à front blanc Overall trends in populations are unknown. However, there has been a considerable contraction of the breeding range of mechowi in Southern Africa during the 20th century, and a sharp decline in numbers was noted along the middle Zambezi River between 1981 and 1991. This decline has been attributed in part to the loss of riverine sand bars following the construction of large dams [Scott, 2002]. On the Sanaga River the White-fronted Plover is reasonably common, with a total number of 39 birds counted. These are resident birds, occurring in pairs all along the river on sandbars. On March 8 a pair was seen with a nearly full-grown young. Green [1996] records hundreds of White-fronted Plovers on in the Ndian Basin, and West et al [2002] recorded 24 individuals in the same area, but in the present survey the Figure 24 White-fronted Plover (Charadrius species was not seen outside the Sanaga River. The marginatus) is a common resident on the estimate for White-fronted Plover on the lower Sanaga River. Le Pluvier à front blanc (Charadrius marginatus) est une Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 40 and espèce régulière de la partie aval de la 60 birds. Sanaga (JvdW).

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola Pluvier argenté The East Atlantic/West Mediterranean population, extending from the Wadden Sea, Britain and Ireland winters south to West Africa (to the Gulf of Guinea [Scott, 2002]. Grey Plover is one of the most abundant plovers among the Cameroon coast. The biggest group was seen in the Ndian basin (972) and smaller groups in the Wouri estuary and Sanaga River. Green [1996] reports several hundreds in the Ndian Basin, while West et al [2002] report some 300 individuals in the Wouri estuary. The estimate for Grey Plover on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 1,400 and 2,100 birds.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 53 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON

White-headed Lapwing Vanellus albiceps Vanneau à tête blanche The species is widespread in Africa south of the Sahara from Senegal and Gambia to south- western Sudan and south to northern Angola. The species is a regular migrant in most of West Africa, moving north during the rainy season [Scott, 2002]. White-headed Lapwing is common on the Sanaga River where 84 individuals were counted, mostly in pairs. Green [1996] reports they are regular in the Ndian Basin, but West et al [2002] and this study failed to see the species there. The estimate for White-headed Lapwing on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 85 and 130 birds.

Sanderling Calidris alba Bécasseau sanderling The species has a relatively restricted breeding range in Arctic Canada, northern Greenland and north-central Siberia between 90°E and 145°E, but winters widely along the coasts of North and South America, Western Europe, Africa, Madagascar, Southern Asia and Australasia [Scott, 2002]. Sanderling were found in highest numbers in the Wouri estuary (40) and a few individuals were found on sandbanks on the outer reaches of the Sanaga estuary (2) and Ndian basin (8). This corresponds well with earlier findings by West et al [2002] who found most Sanderling (240) in the Wouri estuary. The estimate for Sanderling on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 360 and 550 birds. This number is much higher than the actual count because of the relatively small beach area that was surveyed.

Little Stint Calidris minuta Bécasseau minute The species breeds widely across Northern Eurasia from extreme north-eastern Norway east to about 150°E, the westernmost populations wintering from Southern Europe (few), North Africa and Southwest Asia south through Subsaharan Africa and Madagascar to South Africa [Scott, 2002]. Little Stint was only observed in the Sanaga River, where it was relatively common (54) on most of the sandbanks. Green [1996] observed hundreds of Little Stint in the channels of the Ndian Basin. This study failed to see the species in this habitat, but may have underrecorded the species on the mudflats of the outer Ndian Basin, as all the counts there were made from the boat and smaller species like minuta may have easily been missed. West et al [2002] report a group of 1200 Little Stints in the Wouri Estuary, this survey failed to see this species in this area during the present count. The estimate for Little Stint on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 60 and 90 birds.

Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea Bécasseau cocorli The species has a restricted breeding range in extreme northern Russia but a wide wintering distribution in Subsaharan Africa (south to South Africa), Southern Asia and Australasia [Scott, 2002]. Curlew Sandpiper was the most common wader in this study, with a maximum of 1100 birds roosting on Saviour Island and a smaller group of 260 in the Wouri estuary. Green [1996] reports a Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 54 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON group of 200 in the Ndian Basin and West et al [2002] report higher numbers (523) in the Ndian and an impressive 9342 birds in the Wouri estuary. Possibly Curlew Sandpiper does not winter in Cameroon each season, or the group observed in 1999 was already on early migration. The estimate for Curlew Sandpiper on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 1,800 and 2,800 birds.

Ruff Philomachus pugnax Chevalier combatant The species breeds widely across northern Eurasia. The great majority winter in Africa south of the Sahara, the main concentrations being in the northern tropics from Senegal to Sudan and Ethiopia, although large numbers also winter in parts of East Africa and in Southern Africa. European breeders winter mainly in West Africa, along with some West Siberian birds [Scott, 2002]. Two birds were seen in the Wouri estuary, there were no other reports found of this species on the Cameroonian coast. The estimate for Ruff on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 4 and 6 birds.

Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago Bécassine des marais The nominate subspecies has a wide breeding distribution across Western Eurasia, wintering south to northern Democratic Republic of Congo and western Tanzania (rarely to Zambia and Malawi). West Siberian breeders winter mainly in Southwest Asia and Subsaharan Africa [Scott, 2002]. Two birds were seen in the abandoned quarry near Douala, one on the Sanaga River. The estimate for Common Snipe on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 5 and 10 birds.

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa Barge à queue noire Nominate limosa breeds on continental Europe from France eastwards across temperate Asia, and winters from North and West Africa east through the Middle East to Pakistan and India [Scott, 2002]. Two individuals were seen, one near Douala and one in the Ndian Basin. Green [1996] reports up to 20 in the Ndian Basin. The estimate for Black-tailed Godwit on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 2 and 5 birds.

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica Barge rousse Two subspecies are normally recognised: the nominate form breeding in Western Eurasia, and baueri breeding in Eastern Asia and Alaska [Scott, 2002]. The Bar-tailed Godwit was present in a small group in the Ndian basin. Green [1996] reports up to 20 birds in the Ndian Basin. Van der Waarde [2007] observed up to 40 birds in small groups on Saviour Island and Barak Island in the Ndian basin, presumably passage migrants. The estimate for Bar-tailed Godwit on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 8 and 15 birds.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 55 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus Barge rousse The nominate form breeds from Scandinavia across Northern Europe and Asia, and winters from the coasts of Africa through the Middle East to Pakistan, western India and Sri Lanka [Scott, 2002]. The highest numbers (147) of Whimbrel were seen the Ndian Basin spread throughout in groups of 20-30 individuals. In the Wouri estuary similar groups added up tot a total of 63. West et al [2002] found more (269) Whimbrel in the Wouri estuary than in the Ndian Basin (128) while Green [1996] reported maximum 50 in the Ndian Basin. The estimate for Whimbrel on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 300 and 880 birds. This may be an underestimate as larger numbers of Whimbrel may have been present inside the mangroves, which were only marginally surveyed.

Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata Courlis cendré The nominate form breeds widely in Western, Central and Northern Europe east to the Urals, and winters south commonly to Mauritania. N. a. orientalis breeds from Southeast Europe and the Urals east across Asia to about 120°E, the westernmost populations wintering through the Middle East to Eastern and Southern Africa, and occasionally also on the coast of Southwest Africa north to the Gulf of Guinea. There may also be some mixing between nominate arquata and orientalis in the Gulf of Guinea, but the Banc d'Arguin in Mauritania seems to be the usual southern limit for birds of the nominate race [Scott, 2002]. Eurasian Curlew was found in the Ndian Basin (165), Wouri estuary (87) and a small group in a saltwater lagoon near the village of Yoyo II near the mouth of the Sanaga. West et al [2002] do not mention Eurasian Curlew and have probably lumped this species with Whimbrel. Green [1996] found them common with maximum 10-20 on a visit to Ndian Basin. The estimate for Eurasian Curlew on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 350 and 525 birds.

Common Redshank Tringa totanus Chevalier gambette Fennoscandian, Baltic and west-central European birds winter in the West Mediterranean and on the Atlantic coast of Western Europe south to West Africa, while birds from Eastern Europe apparently winter in the East Mediterranean and Asia Minor, with many birds probably continuing on into Subsaharan Africa [Scott, 2002]. A large (890) group of Common Redshanks was seen on Saviour Island in the Ndian Basin. Smaller numbers (119) were found in the Wouri estuary. West et al [2002] report only a minor number of Redshanks (9) in the Wouri estuary whereas Green [1996] regularly reports between 10 and 20 birds for the Ndian Basin. The estimate for Redshank on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 1,425 and 2,150 birds.

Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis Chevalier stagnatile The Marsh Sandpiper breeds in a broad belt in the temperate zone in Eastern Europe, the westernmost populations wintering in Southwest Asia and Subsaharan Africa south to the Cape [Scott, 2002]. Marsh Sandpiper was mostly (76) found singly or in pairs in inland soft mudflats in the Wouri estuary. Lower numbers (18) were found in the Ndian Basin. Green [1996] reports Marsh Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 56 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON Sandpipers as irregular visitors in low numbers (max 20) to the Ndian Basin. The estimate for Marsh Sandpiper on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 100 and 400 birds.

Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia Chevalier aboyeur The species breeds widely across northern Eurasia from Scotland eastwards, the westernmost populations wintering in Southern Europe (relatively few), Southwest Asia and Subsaharan Africa south to the Cape [Scott, 2002]. Common Greenshanks were found in almost all the wetland Figure 25 Common Greenshank (Tringa nebularia) is the most habitats visited along the abundant palearctic wader on the Cameroon coast. Le Chevalier aboyeur (Tringa nebularia) est l’espèce paléarctique Cameroonian coast. Highest la plus abondante de la côte Camerounaise (JvdW). numbers were found in the Ndian Basin (517) followed by the Wouri estuary (245). West et al [2002] find very few Greenshanks in the Ndian Basin but very high (1,260) numbers in the Wouri estuary. Green [1996] reports up to 100 Greenshanks for the Ndian Basin. The estimate for Greenshank on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 2,400 and 3,600 birds.

Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus Chevalier cul-blanc The species breeds widely across northern Eurasia from Norway and Germany eastwards, the westernmost populations wintering in western and Southern Europe, North Africa, Subsaharan Africa south commonly to Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia, and through Asia Minor and the Middle East to western Iran [Scott, 2002]. A few Green Sandpipers were seen in an abandoned quarry near Douala. As this type of habitat was rarely found it is likely that the species is underrecorded. The estimate for Green Sandpiper on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 10 and 20 birds.

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola Chevalier sylvain The Wood Sandpiper breeds widely across northern Eurasia from western Norway and Denmark eastwards, the westernmost populations wintering mainly in Subsaharan Africa south to the Cape, but locally also in Northwest Africa, the Mediterranean Basin, Iraq and south-western Iran. Northwest European breeders winter mainly in West Africa east to Cameroon, while Northeast European and West Siberian breeders winter mainly in Eastern and Southern Africa [Scott, 2002]. A large (150) group of Wood Sandpipers were found in an abandoned quarry near Douala, that they seemed to use as a night roost. West et al [2002] found slightly higher numbers on a site nearby. Green [1996] records Wood Sandpiper as very abundant, with up to 100 birds in the Ndian Basin. Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 57 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON The estimate for Wood Sandpiper on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 190 and 290 birds.

Common Sandpiper Tringa hypoleucos Chevalier guignette The species breeds widely across temperate Eurasia, the westernmost populations wintering mainly in Subsaharan Africa south to the Cape. Western and Central European breeders (east to about 30°E) winter mainly in West Africa [Scott, 2002]. Common Sandpiper was recorded in all visited wetlands, usually singly or in pairs. The Wouri estuary (105) and Ndian Basin (123) held similar numbers and a total of 366 birds were counted in this survey. West et al [2002] find similar numbers. The estimate for Common Sandpiper on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 1,300 and 1,950 birds.

Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres Tournepierre à collier Two subspecies are normally recognised: the nominate form breeding mainly in Eurasia, and morinella breeding in North America. The nominate form breeds in north-eastern Canada and Greenland and from West Norway (and locally Denmark) eastwards across Northern Eurasia, the westernmost populations wintering on the coasts of Western Europe, the Middle East and Africa south to the Cape. The population breeding in Fennoscandia and north-western Russia is migrating through Western Europe and the West Mediterranean to winter on the Atlantic coast of Africa from Morocco to the Gulf of Guinea (with a few birds wintering in the West Mediterranean). There is some evidence to suggest that the birds wintering in Southern Africa undertake a loop migration, reaching Southern Africa via the east coast of Africa, and returning northward along the west coast of Africa to the Gulf of Guinea then across the Sahara to the East [Scott, 2002]. A small group of Turnstone was observed on a muddy beach in the Ndian Basin, in a large roost of Lesser Black-backed Gull and Royal Tern. A small group of 5 individuals was seen on a rocky sandbank in the Sanaga, close to the estuary. The estimate for Turnstone on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 50 and 80 birds.

5.2.4 Gulls, Terns and African Skimmer Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus Goéland brun Larus fuscus comprises the two very dark-backed forms of the argentatus/cachinnans/fuscus group breeding in northern Europe, L. f. fuscus and L. f. graellsii . The nominate race breeds in north continental Europe from northern Norway and Sweden east to the Kola Peninsula and White Sea (35°E), and migrates south across eastern Europe, the Black Sea and the East Mediterranean to winter in the Red Sea and Central and Eastern Africa (east to the Gulf of Guinea and south to Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Malawi). L. f. graellsii breeds from Iceland, Ireland, the U.K. and southern Norway south to north-western Spain and winters along the Atlantic seaboard from the Ireland and the U.K. south to West Africa (commonly to Guinea and Nigeria) [Scott, 2002]. One large group (350) of Lesser Black-backed Gull was found resting on a muddy beach near the Rio del Rey in the Ndian Basin while one single individual was seen at the Sanaga estuary. The

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 58 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON estimate for Lesser Black- backed Gull on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 380 and 570 birds.

Yellow-legged Gull Larus cachinnans Goéland leucophée Larus cachinnans comprises three yellow-legged forms of the argentatus/cachinnans/fuscus complex: atlantis of the Azores, Madeira and the Canary Islands; michahellis of south-western Figure 26 One Yellow-legged Gull ( Larus cachinnans) was found in the Ndian Basin amidst Less-Black-backed Gull France, western Iberia, Morocco (Larus fuscus), it is a new species for Cameroon. Une espèces and the Mediterranean; and de la Goéland leucophée (Larus cachinnans) à été trouvé dans le bassin de Ndian Basin Parmi les Goeland brun (Larus cachinnans from the Black Sea fuscus), c’est une nouvelle espèce pour le Cameroun (JvdW). through the Caspian Sea to eastern Kazakhstan and the region of Lake Balkhash. L. c. atlantis is mainly sedentary. L. c. michahellis is dispersive, with immatures undertaking substantial movements within the Mediterranean and on the Atlantic coast of Africa south to the Gulf of Guinea [Scott, 2002]. One single individual was found in a large roost of Lesser Black-backed Gull in the Ndian Basin. The observation of this bird was the first for Cameroon. The estimate for Yellow- legged Gull on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 1 and 5 birds.

Gull-billed Tern Sterna nilotica Sterne Hansel The nominate subspecies is considered, which breeds in widely scattered colonies across Southern Europe, North Africa and the Middle East, and also locally in Northern Europe and West Africa. West Eurasian breeders winter south to the Gulf of Guinea, Tanzania and the Arabian Peninsula. The population which breeds in Western Europe (north to Denmark and Germany), the West Mediterranean (east to Tunisia) and Northwest Africa south to Mauritania and Senegal, winters mainly inland in West Africa east to Nigeria and Chad [Scott, 2002]. Gull-billed Terns were found on three occasions, always a single individual in a larger group of Royal Terns in the Ndian basin. Skeen [2005] also recorded the species here, while West et al [2002] record 3 in the Wouri estuary. The estimate for Gull-billed Terns on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 4 and 6 birds.

Caspian Tern Sterna caspia Sterne caspienne The nominate form breeds at a number of widely scattered localities in temperate and Southern Eurasia from the Baltic to north-eastern China and also in Africa. The population which breeds in Senegal, Mauritania and Guinea-Bissau winters along the coast of West Africa, possibly to the Gulf of Guinea. The population which breeds in the Baltic (Sweden, Finland and Estonia), Black Sea Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 59 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON (Ukraine) and central Turkey (few) winters mainly in tropical West Africa, notably in the Upper Niger Inundation Zone and Gulf of Guinea [Scott, 2002]. Caspian Terns were found in small numbers always in the company of Royal Tern. The highest numbers (64) were found in the estuary of the Sanaga River, lower numbers in the Wouri and only a few in the Ndian basin. West et al [2002] report slightly higher numbers for Caspian Terns from the Sanaga estuary. The estimate Figure 27 Caspian Tern (Sterna caspia ) was found mainly on for Caspian Terns on the the Southern coast of Cameroon. Les Sterne caspienne (Sterna caspia) ont été trouvé dans la partie Sud de la côte Cameroonian coast in this survey is Camerounaise (JvdW). between 100 and 300 birds.

Royal Tern Sterna maxima Sterne royale The subspecies albidorsalis is known to breed at five sites on the coast of Mauritania and Senegal, and has attempted to breed in Gambia. The bulk of the population winters south along the coast to Angola and Namibia, with most in the Gulf of Guinea, but some birds move north along the Atlantic coast of Morocco [Scott, 2002]. Royal Tern was the most numerous species seen on the Cameroonian coast with a total of 3,781 birds counted. The majority of these birds (2,893) were seen in the Ndian Basin, concentrated in different groups on Saviour Island, the mouth of the Rio del Rey and a muddy beach near the Rio del Rey. Other groups were found on sandbanks in the mouth of the Wouri estuary and the Sanaga estuary. West et al [2002] report lower numbers for the Ndian Basin, higher numbers for the Wouri estuary and comparable numbers for the Sanaga estuary. Green [1996] mentions the species as very abundant in the Ndian Basin and once reports 300 birds. The estimate for Royal Terns on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 4,300 and 6,500 birds. Figure 28 Royal Tern (Sterna maxima) numbers exceed the 1% population criterion in the Ndian Basin. La populations des Sterne royale (Sterna maxima) dans le bassin de Ndian dépasse le critère de 1% pour les sites Ramsar (JvdW).

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 60 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis Sterne caugek The population which breeds in Northwest Europe (north-western France, Britain, Ireland, the North Sea and the Baltic Sea) and the north-western Mediterranean (Spain, France and Italy), winters on the Atlantic coast of Africa from Mauritania (where abundant) to South Africa [Scott, 2002]. A small number of Sandwich Terns was observed in this survey, mainly in the Ndian Basin and few in the Wouri estuary. Green [1996] reports the species as common in the Ndian basin, while West et al [2002] report 52 birds in the Wouri estuary. The estimate for Sandwich Tern on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 110 and 170 birds.

Common Tern Sterna hirundo Sterne pierregarin The nominate race breeds widely in Europe, Northwest Africa and Western Asia east to Kazakhstan and Western Siberia, and winters south to South Africa and east to western India [Scott, 2002]. One single bird was seen in the Ndian Basin. The estimate for Common Tern on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 1 and 5 birds.

Little Tern Sterna albifrons Sterne naine The nominate form breeds across temperate and Southern Europe and North Africa east to Central Asia, and winters south to South Africa and north-western India. S. a. guineae occurs in West and Central Africa from Mauritania and Senegal to Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon and Gabon. Birds breeding on the coast are largely sedentary, but those breeding inland in West Africa are migratory. Little Terns were only seen in the Ndian Basin, in two roosts on beaches and flying in groups in the channels. The total number of birds counted was 533. Green [1996] also reports the species in the Ndian Basin, whereas West et al [2002] report 700 birds in the Wouri estuary. The estimate for Little Tern on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 700 and 1,100 birds.

Black Tern Chlidonias niger Guifette noire The nominate form breeds in temperate regions of Europe and Western Asia from France and Spain in the west to about 85°E in Western Siberia, and winters almost entirely on the west coast of Africa from Mauritania south to Namibia. Major wintering concentrations occur from Mauritania to the Gulf of Guinea, and also off Namibia [Scott, 2002]. Black Terns were found on most sites along the Cameroonian coast and up rivers. The highest numbers were found in the Ndian Basin, where large roosts were found on Saviour Island. Smaller numbers were found on the Sanaga River. On the Southern coast, groups of Black Terns were observed fishing out at sea and once ashore in Kribi, attending fisherman bringing in the nets. No birds were seen in the Wouri river, but earlier surveys [van der Waarde & Anye, 2006] showed the species to be present there. West et al [2002] report large numbers (1,463) in the Ndian Basin and the Wouri estuary (3,514) while Green [1996] does not mention the species. The estimate for Black Tern on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 1,800 and 5,300 birds.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 61 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON African Skimmer Rynchops flavirostris Bec-en-ciseau d'Afrique The African Skimmer occurs along major river systems in Subsaharan Africa from Senegal, Sudan and Ethiopia south to Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa. It is migratory over much of its range, but its movements are complex and poorly understood. Outside the breeding season, it has been found in the deltas of the Senegal and Gambia Rivers, in coastal Ghana, along the Nile north to southern Egypt, and widely in suitable habitat in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania and Angola. Three populations are recognised: a small, largely coastal population in West Africa (from Senegal to Nigeria); a population in Central Africa (from Cameroon and Chad south through the Congo Basin); and a population in Eastern and Southern Africa (from Ethiopia south to Botswana and Zimbabwe). Rynchops flavirostris is listed as ‘Near-threatened’ by BirdLife International and the small West African population is estimated at less than 5,000 birds [Birdlife International, 2004]. Elsewhere in Africa, the species is locally common, and concentrations of several hundred birds are not infrequent, but the largest known breeding colony mentioned in [Scott, 2002] supported only 50 pairs. Both the Central African and Eastern & Southern African populations are estimated in the size range 10,000-25,000 birds. During earlier African Waterbird Censuses, the highest counts in Central Africa have been 833 on Figure 29 Cameroon is extremely important for African the Sanaga River, Cameroon, in Skimmer (Rynchops flavirostris) , with possibly as much as 10% of the global population residing in the country. Le February 1998 and 520 in Gabon Cameroun est très important pour les Bec-en-ciseau in January 1998. In Eastern and d'Afrique (Rynchops flavirostris), avec plus de 10% de la population global population résidant au Cameroun (JvdW). Southern Africa, high counts have included 900 at Lake Abijatta, Ethiopia in January 1998, 560 in Kenya in January 1993, 1,090 in Tanzania in January 1995, 1,375 along the Victoria Nile in Uganda in January 1996, 800 along the Nile near Murchison Falls in Uganda in January 1997, and 242 in Malawi in January 1999. The species becomes very scarce further south [Scott, 2002].

This survey found three groups of African Skimmer along the coast. A very large roost of more than 1800 African Skimmer was found south of Bamusso in the Ndian Basin. This appears to be one of the largest flocks ever recorded of this species. Earlier non-confirmed sightings also mention large concentrations of African Skimmer on this part of the coast [Schermerhorn, 2005]. West et al [2002] recorded a total of 750 birds in February 1999 on the Sanaga River. The only known breeding site of this species in Cameroon is on the Sanaga river, where the breeding population has been monitored monthly from 1999 until 2007 by CWCS (see chapter 6). The population is at its maximum in June, but even than numbers vary dramatically over the years from a low 107 in 1999

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 62 COASTAL WATERBIRDS IN CAMEROON to a high 1,855 in 2002. During the present survey numbers of African Skimmer were low on the Sanaga (385 individuals), most likely due to the early time in season. It is not known whether African Skimmer remain in the Ndian basin outside the breeding season or that they also breed in the Ndian Basin. If population estimates [Delany&Scott, 2006] are correct, than about 18% of the Central African population resides in the Ndian basin outside the breeding season, and between 5 and 10% of the world population of this near-threatened species. Thomas [1995] and Green [1996] do not record significant numbers for African Skimmer in the Ndian basin. This is remarkable, as the boat they took went along the coast from Bamusso, where now the big roost was found. This may indicate that the Ndian basin has become increasingly important for the African Skimmer or that roosts have shifted over time. The Sanaga River, Wouri estuary and the Ndian basin are very important for African Skimmer, surpassing the 1% criterion in all three areas. The estimate for African Skimmer on the Cameroonian coast in this survey is between 2,250 and 3,400 birds.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 63 SANAGA RIVER WATERFOWL MONITORING 1999-2006 6. SANAGA RIVER WATERFOWL MONITORING 1999-2006 by Gordon Ajonina, Isidore Ayissi and Robert Mbakwa

6.1. Introduction

The River Sanaga Monthly Population Monitoring Programme was set up by the Wader Study Group (WSG)- UK, a specialist group of Wetlands International during the second phase of their water bird surveys of Cameroon coast in February, 1999. In collaboration with the Cameroon Wildlife Conservation Society (CWCS) they are working towards the establishment of a sustainable management system for the Douala-Edea Wildlife Reserve through a collaborative approach whereby local population is expected to play a greater role in the management of the resources of the area. In this chapter the results of monthly water bird counts of a 20-km section of the lower River Sanaga and associated rivers and lakes in the Douala-Edea Wildlife Reserve region between 1999- 2006 are presented.

6.2. Methods

Site description The monitoring has been carried out at the lower Sanaga river located bordering the Douala-Edea Wildlife Reserve (9°31' - 10°05'E, 3°14' - 3°35'N) with a typical equatorial climate characterised by abundant rains (3000 - 4000 mm) and generally high temperatures with monthly average of 24 - 29°C. Details of site have been described in Ajonina et al [2005]. The River Sanaga is the largest of the Cameroon rivers having its source in the southern part of the Adamawa foothills and runs for 918 km before entering the Atlantic Ocean. Its final 43 km segment from the Atlantic Ocean is partly running through the Douala-Edea Wildlife Reserve. All through its course along the reserve (see map Figure 1), the river is between 1 and 3 km wide with a mosaic of sandbanks and vegetated islands, many distributaries and lakes with a complex of sand bars, shallow lagoons and mangrove covered islands at the entrance to the sea. The freshwater discharge of the river (average flow of 2072m 3/s with a mean flow of 473m 3/s in March, the highest from August to November of 5700m 3/s) is so powerful that even at high tide the saltwater influence is only found for less than a kilometre upstream from the mouth. This diverse habitats offered by the river and associated lakes is home to wide diversity of flora and fauna including the threatened West African manatee, fish species, crocodiles and other reptiles, and resident and migratory bird species. There is also some human settlement along the river and its islands, doing fishing, farming and sand extraction activities in harmony with seasonal fluvial flooding regime; and urban transport. Of particular significance is the exploitation of bivalves within the period October - June processed for meat and shells for the surrounding ceramic and animal feed processing industries [CWCS, 1997] with impacts on the surrounding lowland rainforest and mangrove forests [Ajonina and Usongo, 2001].

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 64 SANAGA RIVER WATERFOWL MONITORING 1999-2006 Census methods

Figure 30 : Map of the lower Sanaga River section of the Douala-Edea Wildlife Reserve showing waterbird monitoring sites. Carte de la Sanaga avec le Reserve de Douala- Edea avec les sites de suivi marqué.

The census is done monthly (first Thursday and Friday of each month starting at 6.30 a.m) along 23 km of the lower River Sanaga length starting some 6 km from its mouth, including 2 distributaries and a lake (Lake Tissongo) by CWCS Project staff using a 15hp motorised canoe, binoculars, telescopes, measuring tapes, GPS and identification manuals [Serle et al , 1977; Maclean, 1988; Sinclair et al , 1993; Girard, 1998]. Prior to the beginning of the census in March, 1999, the river was divided into 5 sections (Figure 37) following the settlement villages with all sand banks and vegetated islands mapped and allocated identification numbers including an estimate of their areas. These sites were then monitored (100% counts) monthly following standard bird census techniques [Bibby et al , 1992; Dodman et al , 1997; Girard, 1998]. Monthly data collected include: species data (waterbird species, other bird species and ); meteorological data (temperature and rainfall) from CWCS weather station near the river; sand bank status data i.e disappearance (area monitoring) and human activity data (wetland use). The census was done for all months from 1999- 2006 except 1999: January, February, March; 2000: June, July; 2001: March; 2004: March; 2006: September.

Data analysis The data were analysed using mainly simple descriptive statistics especially totals, mean, percentages, tables and charts; and inferential statistics especially correlation analysis to compare and link bird numbers to other biophysical characteristics of the site.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 65 SANAGA RIVER WATERFOWL MONITORING 1999-2006 6.3. Results and Discussion

6.3.1. Waterbirds on the Sanaga River Over sixty-six species of waterbirds including seven kingfisher species have been recorded in the area during the period 1999-2006. Of the total mean monthly number of birds per count of 662 waterbirds recorded during the period Grey , African Skimmers, African Openbilled Storks were the most dominant waterbirds with 274 (41.4%), 215 (32.5%) and 63 (9.6%) birds recorded respectively (annex 6). There was a marked seasonal trend in waterbird numbers (Figure 38) with the mean monthly total per count increasing steadily from January peaking at June (1254 birds) then falling from July (964 birds) with September and October with the lowest numbers: 78 and 104 birds respectively before recovering steadily from November (477 birds). The peaks in bird numbers do not coincide with migration of palearctic migrants (typically March, October), therefore the lower Sanaga River does not seem to be an important stop-over or wintering station for palearctic migrating waterbirds.

6.3.2. African Skimmer, African open-billed Stork and Grey Pratincole An examination of monthly population trends of the three most dominant species: African Open- billed Storks, African Skimmers and Grey Pratincoles over the period (1999-2006) showed fluctuating cyclical pattern with varying amplitudes. For African Open-billed Stork population minimum mean monthly counts of 0.5 birds were recorded in August and maximum of 165 birds

1400.0 All waterbird 1200.0 species 1000.0

800.0

600.0 African Open- 400.0 billed Storks, African 200.0 Skimmers & Mean number/count (1999-2006) Grey Praticoles 0.0 r r t t p ly g p c Jan u u O Feb Ma A May June J A Se Nov Dec Month

Figure 31. Mean monthly distribution of waterbird numbers in the Lower Sanaga River (1999-2006). La distribution moyenne mensuelle des oiseaux d’eaux dans la partie aval du fleuve Sanaga (1999-2006).

in January (Figure 39). This is in harmony with the collection of bivalves on which they feed from the river largely determined by the seasonal fluvial flooding regime. The Openbill Storks move out of the Sanaga even before the sandbanks are flooded, presumably moving North with the rains.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 66 SANAGA RIVER WATERFOWL MONITORING 1999-2006

1000 900 1999 800 2000 700 2001 600 2002 500 2003 400 2004 2005 300 Sandbank area (ha) 2006 200 Mean (1999-2006) 100 0 Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Month

Figure 32. Temporal fluctuations in sandbank areas in the Lower Sanaga. Les fluctuations des bancs sablonneuses dans la partie aval du fleuve Sanaga (1999-2006). African Skimmer only visit the area between January and August with maximum mean monthly number of 785 birds in June. In this period the water level in the Sanaga is still decreasing and African Skimmers breed on the exposed sandbanks in the river. Outside the breeding season the African Skimmer is virtually absent from the lower Sanaga River, presumably moving north with the rains congregating in non-breeding sites like the Ndian basin (see Chapter 7).

400.0 Mean (1999-2006) 350.0 1999 300.0 2000 250.0 2001 200.0 2002

150.0 2003 2004

Number/count 100.0 2005 50.0 2006 0.0

r y y g v Jan o Feb Mar Ap Ma June Jul Au Sept Oct N Dec Month

Figure 33. Temporal distribution of African Openbill Stork (Anastomus lamelligerus) in the lower Sanaga. La distribution moyenne mensuelle des Bec-ouvert africain (Anastomus lamelligerus) dans la partie aval du fleuve Sanaga (1999-2006).

Grey Pratincoles are present in significant numbers throughout the year. A peak in bird numbers can be observed at the end of the breeding season in July. Grey Pratincole appears to breed almost

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 67 SANAGA RIVER WATERFOWL MONITORING 1999-2006 one month later than African Skimmer. In September and October the Sanaga completely floods its riverbed from bank to bank, leaving only the highest forested parts of the sandbanks in the river dry. In these two months observed numbers of Grey Pratincole are low. It is not known where the birds go in this period, possibly they migrate to the coast or remain invisible in the vegetation on the river banks.

2000.0 Mean 1800.0 (1999-2006) 1600.0 1999 1400.0 2000 1200.0 2001 1000.0 800.0 2002 Number/count 600.0 2003 400.0 2004 200.0 0.0 2005

n b ar Ja e pr ug ct ec F M A May June July A Sept O Nov D 2006 Month

Figure 34. Temporal distribution of African Skimmer (Rynchops flavirostris) in the lower Sanaga. La distribution temporaire des Bec-en-ciseau d'Afrique (Rynchops flavirostris) dans la partie aval du fleuve Sanaga (1999-2006).

900.0

800.0 Mean (1999-2006) 700.0 1999 2000 600.0 2001 500.0 2002 400.0 2003

Number/count 300.0 2004 200.0 2005 100.0 2006 0.0

y Jan pr uly ug ec Feb Mar A Ma June J A Sept Oct Nov D Month

Figure 35. Temporal distribution of Grey pratincole (Glareola cinerea) in the lower Sanaga. La distribution temporaries des Glaréole grise (Glareola cinerea) dans la partie aval du fleuve Sanaga (1999-2006).

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 68 SANAGA RIVER WATERFOWL MONITORING 1999-2006

6.3.3. Breeding of African Skimmer and Grey Pratincole Sand banks seem to be very important to African Skimmers and Grey Pratincoles as breeding grounds. In the seasons 2003, 2004 and 2005, several sandbanks were surveyed for nests to investigate the breeding ecology of the African Skimmer. Table 9 shows an indication of the breeding pattern and success of African Skimmer on a small portion of sandbanks in the Lower Sanaga River. A total 46 hectares of sandbanks in the river (approximately 10% of the available mean 400 hectares) was surveyed for nests, eggs and juvenile birds of African Skimmer. The total number of different nests counted on these sandbanks was 48. African skimmers lay up to four eggs per nest. Egg numbers per nest decreased over time, probably due to a high predation rate

Table 9. Breeding data of African Skimmer on lower Sanaga River. Les données reproductives des Bec-en-ciseau d'Afrique dans la partie aval du fleuve Sanaga (2003-2005). River section Sandbank Item March May June July Malimba SB Area (ha) 28 No. of nests 4 No.of eggs 12 No.of juveniles 0 SF2 Area (ha) 51 2 16 30 No. of nests 9 16 3 1 No.of eggs 21 35 5 2 No.of juveniles 0 0 0 1 Yakanzok SB Area (ha) 50 No. of nests 13 No.of eggs 32 No.of juveniles 0 SF Area (ha) 43 No. of nests 2 No.of eggs 4 No.of juveniles 1 Yavi SB1 Area (ha) 47 28 28 No. of nests 8 3 1 No.of eggs 24 7 0 No.of juveniles 0 0 1 SB2 Area (ha) 28 No. of nests 3 No.of eggs 6 No.of juveniles 0 Area (ha) 47 19 24 29 No. of nests 26 26 9 2 No of nests/ha 0.6 1.4 0.4 0.1 Total No.of eggs 65 63 18 2 Total No of eggs/nests 2.5 2.4 2 1 No.of juveniles 0 1 0 2

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 69 SANAGA RIVER WATERFOWL MONITORING 1999-2006 of the eggs by numerous birds of prey and that occur in the area. People also collect the eggs for food. During this research period, only three juveniles were counted, indicating a very poor breeding success. This first attempt at recording breeding ecology and breeding success of African Skimmer on the lower Sanaga indicates that the species may be under serious stress and further survey of the breeding ecology of this species is urgently needed.

6.4. Conclusion and recommendations

The results mainly reconfirm from previous reports [Glazebrook et al , 1998; Ajonina et al , 2003; Ajonina et al , 2004] that demonstrated the ornithological importance of the Sanaga River for waterbirds. It further shows that despite the threats to the aquatic habitats from heavy fishing and bivalve exploitation and the pressures on the nearby lowland rainforest and mangrove ecosystems [Ajonina and Usongo, 2001, Ajonina et al , 2005], it is still very important for African Open-billed Storks and most especially the African Skimmers and Grey Pratincoles holding populations that largely surpass the 1% Ramsar criterion [Delany&Scott, 2006]. The African Skimmer breeding population is one of the biggest recorded, stressing the importance of this site for the species. The observed extremely low breeding success of the African Skimmer on the site warrants further research. Total numbers of the species may not decline yet due to longlivety of the breeding birds, but aging of the population and sudden collapse of the population as a whole can not be excluded. Futher research on breeding success and population composition is therefore urgently needed. The colony of African Skimmer on the lower Sanaga River is of international importance and effective protection measures need to be implemented to guarantee the sustainability of this colony. The current initiative of the government in the ongoing implementation of the re-gazettement process of the wildlife reserve into the highest conservation status of a national park is a positive step in the right direction to provide formal protection of this valuable habitat.

6.5. Acknowledgements

We are greatly indebted to the Wader Study Group (WSG)- UK, a specialist group of Wetlands International for setting up the initiative in February, 1999 during the Cameroon coastal waterbird counts. This work has since then been sustained with support from Cameroon Wildlife Conservation Society (CWCS) in collaboration with Cameroon Ministry of Environment and Forestry (MINEF) through its Biodiversity Conservation and Management Project at the Douala-Edea Reserve, funded by Dutch Organisation for International Development Co-operation (NOVIB). We also wish to thank wetlands international West Africa Programme Office in Dakar - Senegal and Tim Dodman, for constant technical support.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 70 FAUNISTICAL VARIA 7. FAUNISTICAL VARIA

7.1 Avifauna by Roger Skeen

Introduction During the bird survey many species of birds were seen in the coastal wetlands of Cameroon. The waterbirds have been described in the previous chapters, in this chapter all other birds and also mammals and reptiles observed during the survey are reported. Results from excursions further inland (e.g. Mount Kupe, Campo Ma’an National Park) by members of the team are not presented as these habitats are very different from the coastal habitats. This presentation does not serve as a checklist for the coast as most arttention was paid to waterbirds and many other birds were overlooked. The avifauna of the protected areas in Cameroon is faily well documented, with checklists for e.g. Campo Ma’an [Anye, 2002], Mount Cameroon [Baily & Motombe, 2004] and Korup National Park [WWF Carpo].

Species list Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis to Spur Winged Goose Plectropterus gambensis see paragraph 5.1. Black Crake Amaurornis flavirostris to African Skimmer Rynchops flavirostris see paragraph 5.1. African Fish Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer Single birds hunting the Wouri and Sanaga estuary mouths. Osprey Pandion haliaetus Present on all sites in small numbers. Palm Nut Vulture Gypohierax angolensis Present on all estuaries up to ten at a time. African Harrier Hawk Polyboroides typus Present on all sites in small numbers. Yellow Billed Kite Milvus migrans The commonest raptor, seen at all sites, sometimes in large numbers, i.e. 100+ around the cattle fields. Eurasian Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus Two birds around lake Ossa near the Sanaga. Shikra Accipiter badius Single birds on the Wouri and Sanaga. Lizard Buzzard Kaupifalco monogrammicus A pair nesting at Bonendale east of Douala. African Goshawk Accipiter tachiro A single bird at Marienberg on the Sanaga. Black Sparrowhawk Accipiter melanoleucus A single bird at Marienberg. Honey Buzzard Pernis apivorus A single wintering bird at Bonendale. Long Crested Eagle Lophaetus occipitalis One bird seen on the road from Kumba to Ekondo Titi. Cassins Hawk Eagle Spizaetus africanus One bird soaring with the Black Sparrowhawk near Ekondo Titi. Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus Single birds wintering on the Wouri and Sanaga. Scaly Francolin Francolinus squamatus Several were calling early mornings from grasslands around Marienberg on the Sanaga. Up to four birds recorded from the muddy edges of the Mangroves around Douala and on the Sanaga. African Green Pigeon Treron calva Reasonably common in wooded areas near villages that we stayed in around Douala and Bamusso. Tambourine Dove Turtur tympanistria Singles noted at Bonendale and Marienberg. Blue Headed Wood Dove Turtur brehmeri A single bird seen in mature secondary forest near Marienberg. Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 71 FAUNISTICAL VARIA Red Eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata Commonly seen at all sites. Blue Spotted Wood Dove Turtur afer Fairly common at all sites. Grey Parrot Psittacus erithacus Reasonably common at all sites flying over going to and from roosts, or feeding. Occasionally up to 20 birds seen at a time, near Bonendale hundreds of birds cross the road to their roosts in the mangroves every evening. Large roost of several hundred birds in Campo Ma’an National park. Green Turaco Tauraco persa Present at all sites in small numbers, the commonest Turaco. Great Blue Turaco Corythaeola cristata Small numbers in woodland ajoining the Sanaga and a single bird near Ekondo Titi. Klaas’s Cuckoo Chrysococcyx klaas A few birds present at Bonendale Didric Cuckoo Chrysococcyx caprius About ten birds present at Bonendale. African Emerald Cuckoo Chrysococcyx cupreus Two or three heard and one seen at Bonendale also a single bird at the freshwater pool south of Douala. Red Chested Cuckoo Cuculus solitarius A single bird at Bonendale. Senegal Coucal Centropus senegalensis Small numbers present at all sites. Pels Fishing Owl Scotopelia peli One was heard calling each night just before dawn at Marienberg. Red Chested Owlet Glaucidium tephronotum One calling in the evening at Marienberg. Swamp Nightjar Caprimulgus natalensis A bird resembling Figure 36. Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus) morning chorus, Swamp Nightjar was flushed Campo Ma’an National Park. Le Perroquet jaco (Psittacus from the road near Marienberg, erithacus) Park National de la Campo Ma’an (JvdW). call also similar. Sabines Spinetail Rhaphidura sabini At least two birds at Marienberg. Common Swift Apus apus Small parties seen at all localities. Little Swift Apus affinis Commonly seen around Douala and on the Sanaga and Bakassi. African Palm Swift Cypsiurus parvus Common around Bonendale and at Bamouso in the Ndian Basin. African Pygmy Kingfisher Ceyx picta Noted at all sites with suitable habitat often quite distant from water. Malachite Kingfisher Alcedo cristata Several records from the Sanaga River and Wouri upstream. Shining Blue Kingfisher Alcedo quadribrachys Two birds recorded on the Sanaga river. Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis Present on all major waterways. Woodland Kingfisher Halcyon senegalensis Present in small numbers at Bonendale. Grey Headed Kingfisher Halcyon leucocephala Present in small numbers at Bonendale.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 72 FAUNISTICAL VARIA Blue Breasted Kingfisher Halcyon malimbica Two birds on the Sanaga and several more recorded in the Ndian Basin, this species prefers mangrove habitat. Giant Kingfisher Megaceryle maxima Present on all suitable waterways in small numbers. Black Bee-eater Merops gularis A single bird seen at Marienberg, Little Bee-eater Merops pusillus Several birds recorded at Bonendale. White Throated Bee-eater Merops albicollis Seen and heard at all sites often in large flocks. Broad Billed Roller Eurystomus glaucurus Two birds on the Wouri and a single on the Sanaga. Blue Throated Roller Eurystomus gularis A single bird recorded on the Wouri. Red Billed Dwarf Hornbill Tockus camurus Several birds were heard calling at Marienberg. Black Dwarf Hornbill Tockus hartlaubi Three birds seen at Marienberg. African Pied Hornbill Tockus fasciatus Recorded at all localities even in degraded forest and farmbush. Piping Hornbill Ceratogymna fistulator Present at all sites in small numbers. White-Thighed Hornbill Ceratogymna albotibialis A single crossing the Sanaga river. Black-Casqued Hornbill Ceratogymna atrata Three birds crossing the Sanaga river. White Crested Hornbill Tockus albocristatus Two birds recorded in mature secondary forest at Marienberg. Speckled Tinkerbird Pogoniulus scolopaceus Only recorded at Bonendale in small numbers. Yellow Throated Tinkerbird Pogoniulus subsulphureus Present at all locations. Red-Rumped Tinkerbird Pogoniulus atroflavus Heard calling at Bonendale and at Marienberg. Naked Faced Barbet Gymnobucco calvus Recorded at Bonendale. Bristle-Nosed Barbet Gymnobucco peli Recorded at Marienberg in small numbers. Green-Backed Woodpecker Campethera cailliautii A single bird at Bamouso. Buff-Spotted Woodpecker Campethera nivosa Three birds seen in degraded secondary forest near Marienberg. Yellow-Crested Woodpecker Dendropicos xantholophus Single birds seen flying over the Wouri on two occassions Rufous-Sided Broadbill Smithornis rufolateralis A single bird displaying in mature secondary forest at Marienberg. White Throated Blue Swallow Hirundo nigrita Three birds on the river at Bonendale and breeding birds feeding young on the Sanaga. Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica Seen at all sites. Eithiopian Swallow Hirundo aethiopica Up to ten birds at Bonendale and small numbers noted at Bamouso. Lesser Striped Swallow Hirundo abyssinica Two or three pairs around Bonendale. Figure 37 Lesser-striped Swallow (Hirundo abyssinica). Hirondelle striée (Hirundo abyssinica) (JvdW).

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 73 FAUNISTICAL VARIA Preuss’s Cliff Swallow Hirundo preussi Several birds breeding under the Bonaberi bridge at Douala, a colony under the bridge near Dizangue. Rufous Chested Swallow Hirundo semirufa Several birds recorded on the river at Bonendale. Square-Tailed Saw-Wing Psalidoprocne nitens Small numbers seen on the river at Bonendale. Long-legged Pipit Anthus pallidiventris Up to six on the cattle fields near Douala and several on the football pitch at Marienberg. African Pied Wagtail Motacilla aguimp Several pairs on the Sanaga river. Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava Present in small numbers on the cattle field and disused quarry, also a few at Marienberg. Little Greenbul Andropadus virens Only recorded at Bonendale in farmbush. Little Grey Greenbul Andropadus gracilis A pair seen well in the farmbush at Bonendale also a pair at Marienberg. Common Bulbul Pycnonotus barbatus Commonly seen and heard at all sites. Yellow-Throated Leaflove Chlorocichla flavicollis Seen at Bonedale and Marienberg in small numbers. Swamp Palm Bulbul Thescelocichla leucopleura Ten birds in the mangroves at Bonendale also a few heard in similar habitat in the Ndian Basin. Golden Greenbull Calyptocichla serina Only recorded in the mature secondary forest at Marienberg. Western Nicator Nicator chloris A few birds recorded around Bonendale and Marienberg. African Thrush Turdus pelios Commonly recorded at all sites. Fire-Crested Alethe Alethe diademata A pair seen well in the understory of mature secondary forest at Marienberg. Whinchat Saxicola rubetra A few birds at Bamouso village in the Bakassi and at Marienberg on the Sanaga, a common European migrant. Figure 38 Veillot’s Black weaver (Ploceus nigerrimus ). Tisserin noir Greater Swamp Warbler Acrocephalus rufescens (Ploceus nigerrimus) (JvdW). single birds heard and seen briefly at Marienberg. Green Crombec Sylvietta virens Single birds recorded at Bonendale. Lemon Bellied Crombec Sylvietta denti Single birds recorded at Marienberg. Grey-Backed Camaroptera Camaroptera brachyuran Recorded at all localities. Tawny Flanked Prinia Prinia subflava Recorded at all localities. Buff Throated Apalis Apalis rufogularis Two birds seen at Marienberg. Chattering Cisticola Cisticola anonymus Commonly seen at all localities. Cassin’s Flycatcher Muscicapa cassini Only recorded on the Sanaga in small numbers. White-Browed Forest Flycatcher Fraseria cinerascens A pair seen well in mature secondary forest near Marienberg. African Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone viridis Recorded at Bonendale and Marienberg.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 74 FAUNISTICAL VARIA Rufous-Vented Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone rufocinerea Two birds seen at Marienberg. Black-and-White Flycatcher Bias musicus A pair recorded at Bonendale. Shrike Flycatcher Megabyas flammulatus Three birds seen well at Marienberg. Common Wattle-Eye Platysteira cyanea Commonly recorded in small numbers at all localities. Tit-Hylia Pholidornis rushiae A pair recorded in farmbush near Bonendale. Brown Sunbird Anthreptes gabonicus Recorded at all sites in small numbers. Reichenbachs Sunbird Nectarinia reichenbachii Recorded in small numbers at all sites. Carmelite Sunbird Nectarinia fuliginosa Seen in and around Douala and at Bamusso. Tiny Sunbird Nectarinia minulla Recorded in small numbers at Bonendale and Marienberg. Olive Bellied Sunbird Nectarinia chloropygia Commonly recorded in all habitats. Yellow White-Eye Zosterops senegalensis Seen in small parties at Bonendale and Marienberg. Western Black-Headed Oriole Oriolus brachyrhynchus A single bird seen in mature mangroves at Bamouso. Common Fiscal Lanius collaris Only recorded along the road at Marienberg on the Sanaga. Sabines Puffback Dryoscopus sabini Two birds seen at Marienberg. Velvet-Mantled Drongo Dicrurus modestus A single displaying bird seen in mature secondary forest near Marienberg. Pied Crow Corvus albus Common in all habitats and localities. Splendid Glossy Starling Lamprotornis splendidus Recorded at Bonendale and Marienberg. Northern Grey-Headed Sparrow Passer griseus Present at all locations. Slender Billed Weaver Ploceus pelzelni Recorded at Bonendale, a colony at Seme New Beach Hotel (Limbe) and Mile 6 Beach (Limbe). Village Weaver Ploceus cucullatus Commonly recorded in all suitable habitats. Figure 39 Red-vented Malimbe (Malimbus scutatus ). Malimbe à queue Spectacled Weaver Ploceus ocularis Two or three rouge (Malimbus scutatus) (JvdW). pairs at both Bonendale and Marienberg. Vieillots Black Weaver Ploceus nigerrimus Commonly recorded at all suitable habitats. Blue-Billed Malimbe Malimbus nitens Two birds seen at Bonendale in mature farmbush. Red-Vented Malimbe Malimbus scutatus Fairly common in farmbush around Bonendale. Grey-Crowned Negrofinch Nigrita canicapilla Two or three pairs seen around Bonendale. Black-Bellied Seedcracker Pyrenestes ostrinus A pair recorded in mature farmbush at Bonendale. Orange-Cheeked Waxbill Estrilda melpoda Present in good numbers at Bonendale and Marienberg. Black-Headed Waxbill Estrilda atricapilla Recorded in good numbers at Bonendale and Marienberg. Bronze Mannikin Lonchura cucullata Commonly seen in all suitable habitats. Black-and-White Mannikin Lonchura bicolour Only recorded around Marienberg in small numbers. Pin-Tailed Whydah Vidua macroura One male and three females found in Marienberg.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 75 FAUNISTICAL VARIA

7.2 Mammals

A troop of approximately 15 Mona Monkeys was seen near the mouth of the Sanaga River. The hunting pressure on wildlife is heavy throughout Cameroon, and wildlife in general is rare and hard to be seen. Mona monkeys are regular sightings along the Cameroon coast. The Sanaga River is known to be home to Manatee, and one of the skippers claimed to have seen one in the week of the survey. Two African Palm Civits were seen at Mariemberg. Tree Hyraxes were heard around Mariemberg on the Sanaga River. In Kribi, a colony of more than 5000 Straw-coloured Fruit Bat (Eidolon helvum ) resides in the garden of the presidency.

7.3 Amphibians and reptiles

Two large unidentified monitor lizards were seen at two spots along the coast from Limbe to Idenao. A small Nile crocodile was observed on Barak Island in the Ndian Basin. A large individual (2.5 m) was seen at the mouth of the Sanaga River. Ebodje village is home to a seaturtle conservation project, during the time of the visit several seaturtle nests had been excavated from the beaches and reburied in a Figure 40 Young Leatherback Turtles Dermochelys coriacea are protected sandy enclosure. released from protected enclosures in a turtle conservation program in Ebodje. Toture Marin Dermochelys coriacea libèré dans leur fermeture à Ebodje –programme pour la conservation des torture Marin (JvdW).

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 76 OPPORTUNITIES FOR BIRDING TOURISM 8. OPPORTUNITIES FOR BIRDING TOURISM by Jaap van der Waarde

8.1 Introduction

Cameroon is a well known birding destination, due to the wide range of habitats that can be found in the country, the high number of bird species that can be seen (more than 900 species) and the large number of endemic birds that are present in the country. The Cameroon Highlands are home to 24 endemic bird species and are the third richest bird biodiversity spot in Africa. Organised tours frequent Cameroon yearly and a fairly established birding trail exists in the country. The most visited places include the extreme North (WAZA NP, Benoue NP), the Bamenda region, Mount Kupe, Mount Cameroon and Korup NP. Birders tend to visit the same places and outside of these well known spots, birding tourism is rare. This maybe due to a limited access to information about sites, birding checklists and practicalities for visiting other sites. Bird tourism can be an additional source of income for local populations. Although it is unlikely that bird tourism will provide a significant number of full time employments, it can make a significant contribution to the income of local guides. These guides are often hunters and involving them in tourism reduces the pressure of hunting while increasing the income of local communities. Below, the potentials for stimulating birding tourism to the visited areas along the coasts are discussed.

Figure 41 The Lobe Falls are a major tourist attraction on the Southern coast. Les Chute de Lobe– une attraction pour le tourisme et l’eco-tourime dans la partie Sud de la côte Camerounaise (JvdW).

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 77 OPPORTUNITIES FOR BIRDING TOURISM 8.2 Sites for birding tourism

Ndian basin The Ndian basin is extremely rich in birdlife, mainly resident and migrating waterbirds. The large concentrations of African Skimmer are probably unique in the world and would certainly be of interest to birders. Large numbers of Pelicans, Terns and waders can be observed at close range. The mangroves are largely unspoiled and form a unique habitat bordering the lowland forests of Korup national Park. The creeks leading up to the entrance of Korup are rich in African Finfoot and Hartlaub’s Duck. Korup national park is a well known birding destination, and the Ndian basin can easily be included in a Korup package. Before 1985, there was no road to Mundemba and visitors to Korup had to take a boat from Idenao [e.g. Thomas, 1995; Green, 1996]. Reaching Korup by boat is much faster than by car. The boat tip frm Idenao takes approximately 4 hours, or a full day when taking into account ample time to do birdwatching in the Ndian Basin. The trip by car takes 1- 2 full days travel by road, depending on the road conditions. The road between Loum and Mundemba is notoriously bad and upon real improvement (tarring) almost impassible in the rainy season. A boat ride from Idenao to Mundemba and back can be very well combined with the regular birding route including Mount Cameroon, Mount Kupe and further North. Reliable boats can be hired in Idenao or Ekondo Titi, but the price of fuel makes it costly for small parties. The Korup ecotourism organisation in Mundemba can also arrange boats.

Mount Cameroon coast The coast along Mount Cameroon stretches from Idenao in the North to Tiko in the Wouri estuary. This coast is not particularly rich in waterbirds but has some attractive locations for bird watching and other forms of nature tourism. The crater lake at Debundscha has a birdlife that is very different from the other wetlands on the coast and is situated in a beatifull setting in secondairy rainforest. The beaches on this coasts are of black sand and excellent for swimming. At Mile 6, the laguna holds an extraordinary range of freshwater birds while the beach again is good for swimming. On the mountain side, the Bakingile village manages a community forest, offering a transition from lowland to montane forest with several endemic bird species. Near Limbe, the Bakingili community forest offers guided tours through this small but pristine lowland forest. Several of these communities have participated in a training program for birding guides and offer guided birding tours, details can be found on the internet [Mount CEO, 2006]. Conta and reservations can be made through the Mount Cameroon ecotourism organisation in Mundemba or the Fako Tourism board in Limbe.

Douala estuary The Douala estuary is very close to Douala and can be visited on a day trip from the city. The outer estuary is rich in palearctic waders and herons, while near Cape Cameroon large numbers of Pelicans can be seen. The most interesting mudflats can be reached in 1-2 hours by boat. The inland mangrove swamps are home to a wide variety of Herons, Storks, Finfoots and other mangrove species. Boats can be hired from the Douala marinas. The hotel Foyer du Marin in Douala has also contacts in the bour for renting boats.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 78 OPPORTUNITIES FOR BIRDING TOURISM Sanaga River The lower Sanaga River is a two-hour drive from Douala and holds several species of international importance, notably the resident population of African Skimmer. The Sanaga River may hold one of the major populations of this near-threatened species in West Africa. Other species of interest include Grey Pratincoles and White-fronted Plovers. The scenery is spectacular with the wide river, extensive sand banks and bordering lowland forest. The river also is home to a chimpansee orphanage near Mariemberg which can be visited. Mariemberg is the oldest catholic mission in Cameroon which is worth visiting. The rectory dates from the 19 th century and provides accommodation for tourists. Boats can be hired in Mariemberg or Muanko. The coastal range of the Sanaga estuary is bordered by mangroves while the estuary itself can hold larger numbers of Terns and other seabirds. Hartlaub’s Figure 42 Near Mariemberg a chimpansee conservation project allows tourists close-up encounters with Duck is fairly common in the creeks orphan chimps. A coté de Mariemberg –Edea –Projet around Lake Ossa. The bordering pour la conservation des chimpanzé qui permet aux touristes de se rapprocher des chimpanzé orphelins Douala-Edea reserve is still largely (JvdW). uncharted terrain for birdwatchers, the forest is home to endemic species of monkey and consuists of pristine lowland forest and swampt forest. Tracks into the forest can be made from villages across the river from Mariemberg. The Sanaga River can be visited on a day trip from Douala but also forms a suitable stop over for birders travelling to Kribi and further down the coast.

Southern coast/Campo Ma’an National Park The Southern coast has a lot to offer for beach lovers. Endless stretches of empty sandy beaches offer excellent opportunities for swimming, walking and even some snorkelling. The road from Kribi to Campo is reasonable, depending on season and state of the road. Halfway, the village of Ebodje offers guesthouses and guides for nearby walks and is home of an international sea turtle conservation project. Campo is the entrance to the Campo Ma’an NP, another great example of lowland forest in Cameroon. The forest is home to an almost similar bird diversity as Korup NP. The park is a reliable site for seeing Red-headed Picathartes. Accommodation is provided in Campo through the WWF guesthouse or in a guesthouse near the park entrance in Nkoleon with a local guide organisation. Contacts can be made through MINFOF or WWF Cameroon. Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 79 OPPORTUNITIES FOR BIRDING TOURISM

8.3 Recommendations birding tourism

West Africa in general and Cameroon in particular have a relatively poorly developed ecotourism infrastructure. Although the biodiversity values in this part of the world are high, tourist numbers are low due to a variety of reasons. High costs of flight tickets, poor state of the roads, poor marketing, poor park infrastructure, poor hotel facilities and lack of skilled tourism staf are hampering effective tourism development in Cameroon. Stimulating birding tourism in Cameroon is therefore linked to a more general supportative approach to stimulate tourism and ecotourism in Cameroon. At the level institutional development, a stepwise approach could be followed [EAWA, 2005]. First step would be to appoint a governmental committee for ecotourism. This committee should harmonise efforts between the various governmental bodied dealing with tourism and nature conservation and liaise with national and international stakeholders. Following steps include an inventory of potential touristic sites, prioritisation and selection of sites to be developed, stakeholder consultation and participation, drafting and implementation of tourism management plans, monitoring. A multistakeholder approach is needed to ensure that ecotourism development in the coastal wetlands of Cameroon lead to both economic development and nature conservation. At the private level, already existing ecotourism activities can work together in marketing their product and proposing touristic routes, incorporating the various sites. Promotion of these activities could be improved through a website dedicted to birding in Cameroon. The african Birub has an email group that is very active in exchanging information about birding in Africa. International NGOs like WWF are developing ecotourism in the Campo Ma’an area and could market their products in collaboration with already existing ecotourism activities to increase the range of tourism products on offer.

Figure 43 On the Southern coast, rivers breach through lowland forest into the Atlantic Ocean. Partie Sud de la côte Camerounaise-les plages de la rivières à travers une forêt basse sur l’Océan atlantiques (JvdW).

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 80 ORNITHOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE OF COASTAL WETLANDS IN CAMEROON 9. ORNITHOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE OF THE COASTAL WETLANDS IN CAMEROON by Jaap van der Waarde

9.1 Importance for waterbirds in general

Ndian Basin The mangroves of the Ndian Basin hold large numbers of Little Egrets, Great White Egrets, Great White Pelicans and Pink-backed Pelicans. The Ndian Basin is therefore important for this group of water birds, especially afro-tropical species. Saviour Island and Barak Island are especially rich in birds. Thomas [1995] and Green [1996] record large groups of Lesser Flamingo in the Ndian basin. None of the later visits to this area, including the present survey, has confirmed the presence of this species in the region. The earlier reports described sightings throughout the year, a big group of more than 500 individuals in February 1979, a smaller group of 60 in August 1994. Possibly the Lesser Flamingo is an irregular visitor to the region. Large numbers of Grey Plovers, Curlew Sandpipers, Common Redshanks, and Common Greenshanks are present in the Ndian Basin. The total numbers of waders that was counted in the Ndian Basin amounted nearly 4,500. In the migration season the numbers of waders visiting this area are most likely higher as birds coming from Central and South Africa pass here on their way to their breeding grounds in the North. The Ndian Basin is an important non-breeding ground for Royal Tern, which frequent suitable habitat (sandbanks) all along the coast. Large numbers of Black Terns have been found roosting and fishing in the waters of the Ndian Basin. This species spends most of its time probably out at sea but uses the mudflats of the Ndian basin as roost. The African Skimmer was found in very high numbers in the Ndian Basin.

West et al [2002] estimate the total number of waterbirds in the Ndian around 40,000 birds. This is largely based on an estimated surface of mudflats and extrapolation of average water bird densities, as this team could not actually visit the Ndian Basin due to the border dispute at the time. Further research of the Ndian basin was recommended by this team, and in the present survey the importance of the Ndian Basin was indeed confirmed. However, the area of mudflats estimated by West et al [2002] is in reality much smaller, leading to lower bird numers as found in this survey. Ajonina et al [2004] reported extremely high numbers of African Skimmer (6,500), Royal Tern (5,000), Gull-billed Tern (2,000) and other groups in the Ndian Basin. It is very unlikely that Gull- billed Terns were observed in groups, and the reported bird numbers of African Skimmer and Royal Tern are most likely overestimates. This team again did not have the opportunity to survey the whole Ndian Basin and extrapolated data from a limited number of sites at the edge of the Ndian Basin. Earlier reports from the Ndian [Green, 1996; Thomas, 1995] did not report total water bird numbers. Based on the present survey and previous counts, a total of 30,000 waterbirds is estimated for the Ndian Basin.

Mount Cameroon coast The Mount Cameroon coast has only a limited number of water birds, as has been described by various surveys [Ajonina et al , 2004; West et al , 2002; Baily and Motombe, 2004]. The crater lake near Debundscha holds some waterfowl and might be interesting for other aquatic life as well. Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 81 ORNITHOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE OF COASTAL WETLANDS IN CAMEROON Small freshwater lagoons, formed by upwelling of spring water at the foot of Mount Cameroon, form little hotspots of biodiversity with a range of waterfowl. Even Black Egret has regularly been reported from these sites [Baily and Motombe, 2004; van der Waarde, 2006], making them interesting places for bird tourism and conservation.

Wouri estuary Numbers of waders in the Wouri estuary were relatively low at 1,272 birds. Earlier counts in this region by West et al [2002] showed significantly higher numbers of waders in 1998 and 1999 (13,000). It is not clear whether actual bird numbers have dropped since the 1999 count or whether these are normal fluctuations in migratory bird distribution. Possibly these waders do not winter in Cameroon each year, or the birds recorded in 1998 and 1999 were early migrating birds. A total of 20,000 water birds is estimated for the Wouri estuary.

Sanaga River The Sanaga River is home to a large population of Grey Pratincoles, while also numbers of White- fronted Plover are quite high for this rare species. The Sanaga River probably holds a maximum of 5,000 waterbirds.

Southern coast Small numbers of Black Terns have been seen all along the coast to the border with Equatorial Guinea. The complete Southern coast does not seem to hold more than 1,000 birds, although off shore higher numbers of especially Black, Royal and Caspian Terns can be present.

Total Cameroon coast The total estimated number of waterbirds on the Cameroonian coast as determined in this study amounts between 31,000 and 61,000 (Table 10). The large interval in this estimate reflects the vastness of the terrain and inaccesibility of large parts of the coastal wetlands, especially mangroves. West et al [2002] estimated total water bird numbers on the Cameroonian coast between 67,000 and 88,000 birds. Unfortunately their report does not state actually counted numbers of birds but only extrapolated numbers, corrected for area surveyed and possibly other correction factors. It is therefore not possible to directly compare counted bird numbers. The estimate appears to be too high, as half of these birds were thought to be on mudflats in the Ndian basin that were largely overestimated. Ajonina et al [2004] reported some 28,000 birds on the Cameroon coast, observed in a short survey visiting a limited number of coastal wetlands, most likely underestimating total numbers. The total number of waterbirds on the Cameroon coast, based on this and previous counts, is estimated between 50,000 and 60,000 birds.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 82 ORNITHOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE OF COASTAL WETLANDS IN CAMEROON

Table 10 Total number of waterbirds counted and estimated for coastal Cameroon per group of birds and per region in this study and previous surveys. Le nombre total des oiseaux d’eaux dénombr é et estim é pour la côte Camerounaise par groupe des oiseaux et par région dans l’étude en question et pour les études antérieures. counted estimated reported 1 estimated counted (min-max) (min-max) this study this study West et al , West et al , Ajonina et 2002 2002 al , 2004 Large waterbirds 3,482 10,000-20,000 18,440 28,045 - 38,285 3,363 Ducks, rails and 41 440-870 95 107 26 Finfoots Waders 6,991 7,000-14,000 15,420 25,014 - 32,674 980 Terns, Gulls and 7,812 12,000-23,000 9,322 13,852 - 17,052 24,032 African Skimmer

Total 18,326 31,000-61,000 43,277 67,000 - 88,000 28,401

Ndian Basin 11,833 3,189 23,283 Mt. Cameroon coast 102 8,936 471 Wouri estuary 3,223 26,364 2,860 Sanaga River 2,953 4,208 1,693 Southern coast 215 580 94

Total 18,485 43,447 28,401

Final estimate 50,000 – 60,000 1: Extrapolated data based on area surveyed, actually counted numbers not reported.

9.2 Identification of wetlands of international importance

The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands is an international treaty aimed at promoting wise use of wetlands. The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands has adopted the following vision for the List of Wetlands of International Importance: ‘To develop and maintain an international network of wetlands which are important for the conservation of global biological diversity and for sustaining human life through the maintenance of their ecosystem components, processes and benefits/services.’

The act of designating (listing) under the Convention a wetland as internationally important is an appropriate first step along a conservation and sustainable use pathway, the endpoint of which is achieving the long-term wise (sustainable) use of the site. Wetlands are said to be of international importance if they fulfill one or more of the so-called Ramsar criteria [Ramsar, 2006]. In order to qualify the international importance of wetlands on the Cameroonian coast for waterbirds, the criteria of the Ramsar convention were used.

Criterion 1. A wetland should be considered internationally important if it contains a representative, rare, or unique example of a natural or near-natural wetland type found within the appropriate biogeographic region. The mangroves of Cameroon can be regarded as internationally important in accordance with this criterion. The total surface of mangroves in Cameroon is 2,720 ha [SECA/CML, 1987] which amounts to aproximately 10% of all the mangroves in West Africa. The mangroves of the Ndian Basin contain large tracts of pristine mangrove forests, especially around the Bakassi peninsula. On

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 83 ORNITHOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE OF COASTAL WETLANDS IN CAMEROON the South side of the Wouri estuary, relatively untouched mangrove forests are still present. Both areas form part of an intact and naturally functioning ecosystem which includes other wetland types like seagrass beds, tidal flats, coastal lagoons and estuarine complexes which are essential for maintaining the mangrove parts of the ecosystem. The lower Sanaga River is important for seasonal water retention for wetlands or other areas of conservation importance downstream like the Douala-Edea reserve and the Lake Ossa reserve and is important for the recharge of aquifers. The Korup National Park bordering the coast in the Ndian, is home to an exeptional range of endemic plants and animals. The transition from sea, coastal mudflats, mangroves into the lowland forests is here still intact and not interrupted by roads or other human interferences. The mangroves of the Ndian Basin and the Wouri estuary form a representative example of West African mangroves and qualify according to this criterion. The lower reaches of the Sanaga form a unique freshwater ecosystem and qualify as well according to this criterion.

Criterion 2. A wetland should be considered internationally important if it supports vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered species or threatened ecological communities. Most of the Cameroonian coast would qualify for this criterion. In the Ndian Basin and Wouri estuary, the West African Manatee is still present in significant numbers. The beaches of southern Cameroon are important nesting sites for Leatherback and Green Turtles. The mangroves are important as coastal defence, nursery for fish and source of fuelwood for local communities. The coastal sandbanks offer roosts for Tern, Gull and African Skimmer. The various wetalnds along the coast of Cameroon are important for several rare bird species like African Darter, Pink-backed Pelican, Great White Pelican, Senegal Thick-knee, Grey Pratincole, White- fronted Plover and African Skimmer.

Criterion 3: A wetland should be considered internationally important if it supports populations of plant and/or animal species important for maintaining the biological diversity of a particular biogeographic region. Information was collected only about birds and no conclusions can be drawn with respect to this criterium.

Criterion 4: A wetland should be considered internationally important if it supports plant and/or animal species at a critical stage in their life cycles, or provides refuge during adverse conditions. Information was collected only about birds and no conclusions can be drawn with respect to this criterium. More biodiversity surveys are needed of the visited sites in order to establish whether these sites are important breeding areas for e.g. fish and other marine life or are important refuge for e.g. West African Manatee.

Criterion 5. A wetland should be considered internationally important if it regularly supports 20,000 or more waterbirds. During this survey none of the visited areas surpassed the 20,000 criterion for waterbirds. However, this survey consisted of one-only counts during the palearctic winter. During migration, numbers of waterbirds may be significantly higher, especially Terns and palearctic waders.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 84 ORNITHOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE OF COASTAL WETLANDS IN CAMEROON West et al [2002] counted more than 26,000 waterbirds in the Wouri estuary alone, while in the present survey no more than 3,200 waterbirds were counted. This is mainly due to the fact that some 10,000 Curlew Sandpipers that was seen by West et al [2002] were not in the area during the present study. This indicates that temporal variation in bird numbers in the region may be significant. The Ndian Basin held the highest number of waterbirds on the coast of Cameroon. Most of these birds were concentrated on a few places, notably Saviour Island. This island alone had more waterbirds than the whole of the Wouri estuary. Based on this and previous surveys it is concluded that estimated waterbird numbers in the Ndian Basin and the Wouri regularly exceed the 20,000 criterion and both areas qualify as a wetland of international importance based on this criterion. The importance of the Ndian Basin and Wouri estuary as stop-over sites during migration time is unknown but is expected to be high and regularly exceed 20,000 water birds.

Criterion 6: A wetland should be considered internationally important if it regularly supports 1% of the individuals in a population of one species or subspecies of waterbird. The coast of Cameroon is of international importance for several species of waterbirds according to this criterion. Three regions, the Ndian Basin, the Wouri estuary and the lower reaches of the Sanaga River, all pass the 1% criterion for one or more bird species listed under the Ramsar convention (Table 2).

Table 11 Evaluation of criterion 6 of the Ramsar convention for coastal wetlands of Cameroon based on the present count and a 8-year monitoring program on the lower Sanaga River. L’Evaluation du critère 6 de la Convention pour les zone humides côtières du Cameroun. 1% Species birds counted Site level 1 actual % Grey Pratincole Glareola cinerea 807 Sanaga River 250 3.2 2 Grey Pratincole Glareola cinerea 420 Sanaga River 250 1.7 Royal Tern Sterna maxima 2,893 Ndian Basin 2,250 1.3 Little Tern Sterna albifrons 533 Ndian Basin 490 1.1 African Skimmer Rynchops flavirostris 1,782 Ndian Basin 100 17.8 African Skimmer Rynchops flavirostris 106 Wouri estuary 100 1.1 African Skimmer Rynchops flavirostris 385 Sanaga River 100 3.9 2 African Skimmer Rynchops flavirostris 785 Sanaga River 100 7.9 1. [Delany&Scott, 2006] 2. Mean value at the peak of the breeding season during a 8-year monitoring program.

This means that all three sites are internationally important wetlands according to the Ramsar convention. In the Ndian basin a group of 1680 African Skimmer was found, representing more than 18% of the regional population and between 5% and 10% of the estimated world population. It is not clear whether these African Skimmers use this area only in the non-breeding season or can be found there year round. The birds probably breed on the Sanaga River and possibly other countries in Central and West Africa. Numbers of Little Terns and Royal Terns also exceed the 1% criterion [Delany&Scott, 2006], supporting the conclusion that the Ndian basin is an internationally important wetland according to the Ramsar convention. Another count should be performed in the rainy season (July-August) to determine how large the resident population in the Ndian basin is. Within the Ndian basin, four sites

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 85 ORNITHOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE OF COASTAL WETLANDS IN CAMEROON held the highest numbers of birds: Saviour Island (Little Tern), Bamusso mudflats (African Skimmer), mudflats near Rio del Rey (Royal Tern) and Barak Island (waders). The number of African Skimmers in the Wouri estuary exceeded the 1% criterion [Delany&Scott, 2006]. These observations support the conclusion that the Wouri estuary is an internationally important wetland according to the Ramsar convention. The lower reaches of the Sanaga River (from Edea to the coast) were found to hold large numbers of African Skimmer and Grey Pratincole, both exceeding the 1% criterion [Delany&Scott, 2006]. During monthly counts in the past 8 years, numbers of African Skimmer were found to be exceeding this 1% criterion every year during the months of March to July. During the present coastal survey numbers of African Skimmer were reletively low due to the fact that it was still early in season, as has been demonstrated in the 8-year monitoring program. The numbers of breeding pairs of African Skimmer on this stretch of the Sanaga River is estimated between 200 and 600, making it one of the largest documented breeding areas for this near-threatened species. Numbers of Grey Pratincole always exceeded the 1% criterion in the 8-year monitoring program, with a maximum mean of 429 in July. Only in August and September when the river is completely flooded, Grey Pratincole numbers are low. In the present survey Grey Pratincole numbers were even higher, corresponding with 3.2 % of the global population. The difference is due to the fact that in the survey the complete lower Sanaga was counted, whereas in the monitoring program only a part of this area is counted. The lower reaches of the Sanaga River therefore form an internationally important wetland according to the Ramsar convention.

Criteria 7 and 8 are related to fish, no information was collected on fish so no conclusions can be drawn with respect to these criteria. Criterium 9 is related to other taxa, no quantitative information was collected on other taxa than birds so no conclusions can be drawn with respect to this criterium.

In conclusion, it is clear that wetlands on the Cameroonian coast are of international importance. Especially the Ndian Basin, Wouri estuary and lower Sanaga River hold exceptional biodiversity values like pristine West African mangrove ecosystems, large congregations of waterfowl, several waterfowl populations exceeding 1% of the (regional) population [Delany&Scott, 2006] and a very important breeding colony of a near threatened bird specie. These facts have clearly demonstrated that the Ndian Basin, Wouri estuary and lower Sanaga River are wetlands of international importance.

9.3 Future of Cameroonian coast wetlands

Ndian Basin The Ndian Basin holds large proven reserves of mineral oil, and has been subject of a border dispute between Nigeria and Cameroon. Since in 2006 the International Court of Justice in The Hague ruled in favour of Cameroon, oil companies have started to undertake exploration activities off shore. During the time of the survey, a consultancy company was present in the area to perform an Environmental Impact Assessment for one of those companies. Drilling is done very close to shore and any accident or spill will most certainly impact the coastal ecosystem. The Nigerian River Delta close by is one of the most polluted ecosystems in the world, after decades of ill-controlled oil Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 86 ORNITHOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE OF COASTAL WETLANDS IN CAMEROON exploration. The Ndian basin is still largely unspoiled, unexploited and uninhabited, but increase in oil exploitation activities will most likely lead to water pollution, habitation and exploitation of coast and mangroves. The oil&gas industry that is engaged in oil exploration and production in the Ndian basin is held to perform and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and produce an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for their activities. Recently Cameroon elaborated a national oil spill contingency plan. However, enforcement of rules and regulations in the field of environmental protection is still weak in Cameroon. The quality of EIAs and EMPs varies highly depending on the type of industry and the company concerned. Some oil companies may adhere to their own international standards whereas others may prefer to use Cameroonian norms (often non- existing) or more qualitative norms. This lack of an effective legal and institutional framework forms a high risk for the Cameroonian environment and should be improved. It is of utmost importance that the Cameroonian government and the oil companies concerned make all necessary arrangements to safeguard the unique biodiversity values in the Ndian basin and prevent negative impacts of the oil & gas sector on this fragile environment.

Wouri estuary, Douala The harbour of Douala is the main regional harbour for Cameroon, Central African Republic and Tchad. The industrial complex of the town has been placed in the mangroves north of the town. Any expansion of this industrial area will most likely be at the expense of the existing mangroves. Access to the harbour itself is secured through regular dredging of the main channel through the Wouri estuary. If the harbour is to allow bigger boats the channel will have to be dredged deeper. This will most likely effect the nature and size of the mudflats in the estuary and thus the waterbird population. Discharge of contaminated sludges off shore may also impact the quality of water and mudflats. Uncontrolled settlement and use of the mangroves in the Wouri estuary is leading to felling of mangrove forests. The wood is primarily used for smoking of fish. Large stretches of mangroves have already been felled, destroying important bird habitat and making the coast vulnerable to erosion and floods.

Sanaga River The Sanaga River drains about half the surface of Cameroon, and supplies 95% of the national energy production through the two hydropower plants on the river. Power production is secured by a system of dams upstream of the river that regulate the flow and reserve sufficient water to feed the hydropower plants with water in the dry season. The dams were build in the 1950s and 1960s and the effect of these dams on the river and bird population at that time were not properly documented. Recently, it was proposed by the Cameroon government to build another dam [IRN, 2005] in one of the Sanaga tributaries to further secure water flows. It is unclear how these activities will impact the environment and expecially the bird populations on the lower Sanaga River. If flows are even more reduced, especially in the rainy season, sand deposition may reduce leading to erosion and disappearance of crucial habitat for African Skimmer, Grey Pratincole and White-fronted Plover. Reduced flooding of sandbanks will make these environments also more suitable for farming or even habitation, leading to habitat destruction and disturbance. Already the higher grounds on the sandbanks are used for seasonal farming due to the high fertility of the soil. Increased flows in the dry season on the other hand may decrease sandbank area and breeding sites. Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 87 ORNITHOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE OF COASTAL WETLANDS IN CAMEROON

The headwaters of the Sanaga River lie partly in the Bamenda Highlands, an area of intensive agricultural production. Further downstream tributaries flow through extensive industrial plantations of rubber, bananas and other tropical fruits. Increased use of fertilizers and pesticides in this agroindustry will lead to pollution of the river and potential negative effects on the river ecosystem, including birds. For the Zambezi River it has been reported that the African Skimmer population suffered from pesticide pollution [Birdlife International, 2004].

The population along the Sanaga River engages in collection of eggs from the African Skimmer in breeding season. Uncontrolled and unsustainable harvesting of eggs will certainly harm the population. Preliminary findings of a breeding ecology study of African Skimmer on the lower Sanaga River have show a dramatically low breeding success, indicating that the population may be under severe stress.

Conservation recommendations Future developments on the Cameroon coast will have impacts on the coastal wetlands that need to be managed in a coordinated approach. These activities should be analyzed through a Strategic Environmental Assessment. Such an assessment would allow the identification of cumulative effects of individual developments and facilitate the creation of a regional development plan. Important areas for biodiversity should receive formal protection. The whole of the Ndian Basin qualifies as a wetland of international importance and should be listed as a Ramsar site. This study has shown parts of the area to be of international importance for birds. The latter justify formal protection of the Rio del Rey estuary and nearby coastal mudflats, Barak Island, Saviour Island and coastal mudflats near Bamusso. The area could also be included in an enlarged National Park including the existing Korup National Park. The Wouri estuary similarly qualifies as a wetland of international importance, and should be listed as a Ramsar site. The lower Sanaga River should be listed as a Ramsar site. The area could also be included in the existing Edea-Douala reserve to guarantee formal protection. Several activities should be initiated to facilitate these processes:

Extensive biodiversity surveys Bakassi. The Bakassi appears to be an area of exceptional rich biodiversity. The mangroves are in large parts still in pristine state and there is a continuous transition from the sea through mangroves into lowland forest. This area has hardly been studied and probably holds a wealth of information to be uncovered. The expected economic developments in the region are an important driver for these surveys. The present biodiversity needs to be assessed, sensitive areas and species identified, potential impacts identified and protection and conservation measures designed. This involves a complete array of survey including plants, birds, mammals, fishes etc.

Repeated monitoring bird counts. The survey has shown that large variations exist between this survey and previous bird counts. It is not clear whether this is due to natural variations in bird numbers along the Cameronian coast, or that the numbers of birds visiting this coast have really changed. Regular bird surveys on the most important sites (Wouri estuary, Ndian Basin, Sanaga River) are therefore needed. Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 88 ORNITHOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE OF COASTAL WETLANDS IN CAMEROON

International Species Action Plan African Skimmer Rynchops flavirostris An international Species Action Plan is required for African Skimmer according to the AEWA action plan [AEWA, 2005]. Cameroon has not signed this agreement but given the multitude of important bird areas for migratory waders, it would be highly beneficial if Cameroon would ratify this agreement. The Sanaga River and Ndian Basin appear to be very important for the African Skimmer. The lower Sanaga River may hold as much as 15-20 % of the West African population of this species and Cameroon is therefore well placed to take the initiative in research and protection of this near-threatened species. This species has been hardly studied, and little is known about its distribution in this part of Africa. The trend of the global population is decreasing and limited data from Cameroon indicate very poor breeding succes in one of its most important breeding colonies. Scientific research about the ecology of this bird is badly needed to understand why the population is under stress and which conservation efforts are needed to protect this species. This research should result in an International Species Action Plan.

International Species Action Plan Grey Pratincole Glareola cinerea An international Species Action Plan is required for Grey Pratincole according to the AEWA action plan [AEWA, 2005]. Cameroon has not signed this agreement but given the multitude of important bird areas for migratory waders, it would be highly beneficial if Cameroon would ratify this agreement. The Sanaga River is very important for Grey Pratincole. An international Species Action Plan should be designed for this species.

Scientific research on Hartlaub’s Duck Pteronetta hartlaubii . The wetlands of Lake Ossa appear to be important for this near-threatened species. The population does not seem to be declining in Africa, but proper population estimates are lacking. Better understanding of the ecology of the bird and accurate population density estimates will help to evaluate the conservation status of this species and design conservation measures.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 89 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 10. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

10.1 Conclusions

Based on this survey, the following conclusions can be drawn: • The first waterbird census of the complete Cameroon coast was performed in the palearctic winter period, in this bird survey more than 18,000 waterbirds were counted of 65 species. • The total number of waterbirds on the Cameroon coast is estimated between 50,000 and 60,000. • The Ndian Basin, Wouri Estuary and Sanaga River downstream from Edea exceed 1 or more Ramsar criteria and qualify as wetlands of international importance. • The Cameroon coastal wetlands are highly important for African Skimmer, Grey Pratincole, Royal Tern and Little Tern, all exceeding the Ramsar 1% population criterion. • In the Ndian Basin possibly the largest group of African Skimmer ever recorded was observed, indicating the regional importance of the Ndian basin for this near-threatened species. • The Ndian Basin is one of the last extensive and largely pristine mangrove swamps in West Africa and forms a unique transition zone from coastal mudflats through mangrove to lowland forest, all in pristine condition. • The lower reaches of the Sanaga River are home to one of the largest known breeding colonies of African Skimmer and is also home to a sizeable population of Grey Pratincole. • The African Skimmer population on the Sanaga River appears to be under severe stress, as evidenced by an extremely poor breeding succes. • The lower reaches of the Sanaga River together with the Sanaga estuary form a unique ecosystem with high biodiversity values. • The Ndian Basin basin is at risk of habitat destruction due to future oil&gas exploration activities in the region and unsustianable use of natural resources by the population in the region. • The Wouri estuary is at risk of habitat destruction due to present and future industrial activities in the Douala harbour area and unsustianable use of natural resources by the population in the region. • The lower Sanaga River is at risk of habitat destruction due to planned hydropower construction upstream on the Sanaga and unsustianable use of natural resources by the population in the region. • (Birding) tourism development is a viable option for limited income generation for local population in the Ndian Basin and the lower Sanaga River.

10.2 Recommendations

Based on this survey, the following recommendations can be made:

• The Ndian Basin, Wouri Estuary and lower Sanaga River should be identified as Ramsar sites as a first step towards sustainable use of these wetlands.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 90 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS • The Ndian Basin, Wouri Estuary and lower Sanaga River should receive formal protection in the form of national park or reserve to protect the unique biodiversity values in these regions. • Sensitisation of local populations and promotion of sustainable practises is needed to reduce human pressure on coastal habitats. • Promotion of (bird) touristic sites together with incentives for private sector investment is needed to increase the potential of this sustainable alternative source of income. • Environmental Impact Assessments of activities affecting the coast are to be made public and integrated into a coastal Environmental Management Plan to steer sustainable development of the Cameroon coast. • Monitoring of biodiversity values of coastal wetlands is to be continued and expanded to provide information for management plans.

Figure 44. High tide roost of African Openbill Stork (Anastomus lamelligerus) on the The Sanaga River. Support pour les Marée haut des Bec-ouvert africain (Anastomus lamelligerus) de la fleuve Sanaga (JvdW). Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 91 REFERENCES 11. REFERENCES

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Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 95 APPENDICES APPENDICES

APPENDIX 1. NUMBER OF OBSERVED BIRDS PER COUNT IN COASTAL CAMEROON, 2007 . For count number, see the maps in chapter 4. Dénombrements des oiseaux sur la côte Camerounaise, 2007. Pour le numero du compte vois chapitre 4. Species/count nr 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Site coverage (%) 95% 50% 70% 90% 5% 100% 80% 100% 100% 100% 100% 30% 50% 100% 100% Little Grebe 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 0 0 0

Long-tailed Cormorant 0 0 0 21 2 0 32 2 0 9 2 2 4 29 15

African Darter 0 0 0 4 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 4 2

Great White Pelican 2 7 130 20 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 Pink-backed Pelican 0 8 13 12 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 31 88

Squacco Heron 0 0 3 45 0 0 10 0 0 0 0 28 14 0 7 Cattle Egret 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 55 45 1 0 0 Green-backed Heron 0 1 2 4 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 7 Western Reef Heron 0 7 5 18 0 0 14 10 0 0 1 0 0 5 20 Little Egret 11 136 24 369 8 0 18 11 0 2 16 100 15 268 319 Intermediate Egret 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 6 2 2 Great White Egret 0 45 11 60 0 0 9 0 0 0 4 10 20 44 21 Purple Heron 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 0 0 Grey Heron 4 24 76 46 0 0 9 14 0 0 1 7 4 36 54 Black-headed Heron 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 Goliath Heron 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

Hamerkop 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 1

Yellow-billed Stork 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 8 0 African Openbill Stork 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Woolly-necked Stork 0 11 0 7 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 7

Hadada Ibis 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Sacred Ibis 0 7 0 14 0 0 7 0 0 2 3 9 0 3 25 White-faced Whistling Duck 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 0 0 0 0

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 96 APPENDICES Spur-winged Goose 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Hartlaub's Duck 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 African Pygmy Goose 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Black Crake 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

African Finfoot 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0

African Jacana 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 10 10 1 0 0

Black-winged Stilt 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 Pied Avocet 0 5 15 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Senegal Thick-knee 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 0 0 0 0 Rock Pratincole 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Grey Pratincole 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Little Ringed Plover 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 Ringed Plover 355 0 30 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 33 0 White-fronted Plover 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Grey Plover 0 12 960 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 44 0 White-headed Lapwing 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0

Sanderling 0 0 0 0 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 40 0 Little Stint 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Curlew Sandpiper 40 0 1100 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 260 0 Ruff 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 Common Snipe 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 Black-tailed Godwit 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 Bar-tailed Godwit 0 0 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Whimbrel 31 78 3 17 0 0 18 4 0 0 0 2 0 32 27 Eurasian Curlew 0 105 40 20 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 43 38 Common Redshank 0 0 890 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 0 107 1 Marsh Sandpiper 0 0 18 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 75 0 Common Greenshank 10 95 334 49 29 0 0 1 0 0 0 6 8 131 80 Green Sandpiper 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 0 0 0 0 Wood Sandpiper 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 150 0 0 0 0

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 97 APPENDICES Common Sandpiper 0 0 6 103 4 0 10 27 0 0 13 20 3 26 39 Ruddy Turnstone 5 0 30 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Lesser Black-backed Gull 360 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Yellow-legged Gull 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Gull-billed Tern 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Caspian Tern 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 0 Royal Tern 1261 504 1121 1 3 0 3 0 0 0 0 1 0 6 209 Sandwich Tern 20 3 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 4 Common Tern 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Little Tern 2 0 250 0 4 0 277 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Black Tern 125 0 407 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

African Skimmer 0 0 0 0 0 1782 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 106 0

Total 2233 1050 5479 813 66 1782 410 72 11 19 299 252 85 1354 972

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 98 APPENDICES Appendix 1. Number of observed birds per count in Cameroon, 2007 (continued) Species/count nr 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 Site coverage (%) 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 50% 100% 50% 1% 100% 20% 20% 20% Little Grebe 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Long-tailed Cormorant 16 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 15 0 0 0 0 0

African Darter 1 0 0 0 2 4 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0

Great White Pelican 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Pink-backed Pelican 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Squacco Heron 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Cattle Egret 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 28 0 0 Green-backed Heron 2 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 Western Reef Heron 4 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Little Egret 76 6 99 17 43 45 2 0 0 1 0 4 3 1 Intermediate Egret 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Great White Egret 1 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Purple Heron 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 Grey Heron 24 0 6 2 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Black-headed Heron 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Goliath Heron 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Hamerkop 6 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Yellow-billed Stork 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 African Openbill Stork 0 0 0 4 317 11 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Woolly-necked Stork 3 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Hadada Ibis 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Sacred Ibis 4 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

White-faced Whistling Duck 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Spur-winged Goose 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 Hartlaub's Duck 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 0 0 0 0 African Pygmy Goose 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 0 0 0

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 99 APPENDICES

Black Crake 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

African Finfoot 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

African Jacana 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 6 0 0 0

Black-winged Stilt 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Pied Avocet 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Senegal Thick-knee 0 0 0 2 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Rock Pratincole 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 Grey Pratincole 0 0 23 36 243 414 91 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Little Ringed Plover 0 0 2 8 0 10 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Ringed Plover 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 White-fronted Plover 0 0 9 5 7 12 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Grey Plover 0 0 2 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 White-headed Lapwing 0 0 0 0 22 56 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Sanderling 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Little Stint 0 0 0 0 3 43 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Curlew Sandpiper 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Ruff 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Common Snipe 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Black-tailed Godwit 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Bar-tailed Godwit 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Whimbrel 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Eurasian Curlew 4 0 13 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Common Redshank 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Marsh Sandpiper 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Common Greenshank 20 0 2 5 27 38 7 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 Green Sandpiper 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Wood Sandpiper 0 0 0 0 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Common Sandpiper 4 6 24 5 12 17 25 3 0 0 0 10 9 0 Ruddy Turnstone 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 100 APPENDICES Lesser Black-backed Gull 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Yellow-legged Gull 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Gull-billed Tern 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Caspian Tern 24 0 64 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Royal Tern 40 0 617 14 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 Sandwich Tern 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Common Tern 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Little Tern 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Black Tern 0 0 0 31 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 65 80 13

African Skimmer 0 0 0 0 0 32 353 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Total 240 21 874 150 684 696 502 4 29 5 9 108 92 15

.

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 101 APPENDICES APPENDIX 2. WATERBIRD SPECIES AND NUMBERS RECORDED IN COASTAL CAMEROON, 2007. Les oiseaux d’eaux et leurs dénombrements sur la côte Camerounaise, 2007 Site Mount Cameroon Cormorants to ibises Ndian basin coast Wouri estuary Sanaga South coast Total Long-tailed Cormorant Phalacrocorax africanus 55 11 68 17 0 151 African Darter Anhinga rufa 7 0 13 8 1 29 Great White Pelican Pelecanus onocrotalus 159 0 10 0 0 169 Pink-backed Pelican Pelecanus rufescens 33 0 120 0 0 153 Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides 58 0 49 0 0 107 Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis 0 0 101 4 28 133 Green-backed Heron Butorides striatus 9 1 9 3 1 23 Western Reef Heron Egretta gularis 44 10 30 1 0 85 Little Egret Egretta garzetta 566 13 794 212 9 1,594 Intermediate Egret Egretta intermedia 0 0 11 1 0 12 Great White Egret Egretta alba 125 0 100 3 0 228 Purple Heron Ardea purpurea 0 1 3 4 0 8 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea 159 14 126 11 0 310 Black-headed Heron Ardea melanocephala 0 1 1 2 0 4 Goliath Heron Ardea goliath 1 0 1 0 0 2 Hamerkop Scopus umbretta 3 0 13 3 0 19 Yellow-billed Stork Mycteria ibis 1 0 10 0 0 11 African Openbill Stork Anastomus lamelligerus 0 0 0 332 0 332 Woolly-necked Stork Ciconia episcopus 19 0 12 4 0 35 Hadada Ibis Bostrychia hagedash 0 0 0 2 0 2 Sacred Ibis Threskiornis aethiopicus 28 2 44 1 0 75

Total Cormorants to Ibises 1,267 53 1,515 608 39 3,482

Ducks, rails and finfoots Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis 0 10 0 0 0 10 White-faced Whistling Duck Dendrocygna viduata 0 0 8 0 0 8 Spur-winged Goose Plectropterus gambensis 0 0 0 2 0 2 Hartlaub's Duck Pteronetta hartlaubii 0 0 2 7 0 9 African Pygmy Goose Nettapus auritus 0 0 0 4 0 4 Black Crake Amaurornis flavirostris 0 0 0 3 0 3

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 102 APPENDICES

African Finfoot Podica senegalensis 1 0 1 3 0 5

Total ducks, rails and finfoots 1 10 11 19 0 41

Waders African Jacana Actophilornis africanus 0 4 21 9 0 34 Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus 0 0 5 0 0 5 Pied Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta 20 0 0 0 0 20 Senegal Thick-knee Burhinus senegalensis 0 0 7 6 0 13 Rock Pratincole Glareola nuchalis 0 0 0 0 3 3 Grey Pratincole Glareola cinerea 0 0 0 807 0 807 Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius 0 0 4 22 0 26 Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula 385 2 33 0 0 420 White-fronted Plover Charadrius marginatus 0 0 0 39 0 39 Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola 972 1 44 10 0 1,027 White-headed Lapwing Vanellus albiceps 0 0 1 84 0 85 Sanderling Calidris alba 8 0 40 2 0 50 Little Stint Calidris minuta 0 0 0 52 0 52 Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea 1,140 0 260 0 0 1,400 Ruff Philomachus pugnax 0 0 2 0 0 2 Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago 0 0 2 1 0 3 Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa 1 0 1 0 0 2 Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica 6 0 0 0 0 6 Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus 147 4 63 0 0 214 Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata 165 0 87 13 0 265 Common Redshank Tringa totanus 890 0 119 0 0 1,009 Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis 18 0 76 1 0 95 Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia 517 1 245 80 0 843 Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus 0 0 8 2 0 10 Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola 0 0 150 5 0 155 Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos 123 27 105 92 19 366 Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres 35 0 0 5 0 40

Total waders 4,427 39 1,273 1,230 22 6,991

Tern, Gull and African Skimmer Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus 360 0 0 1 0 361

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 103 APPENDICES

Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis 1 0 0 0 0 1 Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica 3 0 0 0 0 3 Caspian Tern Sterna caspia 6 0 32 64 0 102 Royal Tern Sterna maxima 2,893 0 256 631 1 3,781 Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis 27 0 9 0 0 36 Common Tern Sterna hirundo 1 0 0 0 0 1 Little Tern Sterna albifrons 533 0 0 0 0 533 Black Tern Chlidonias niger 532 0 0 31 158 721 African Skimmer Rynchops flavirostris 1,782 0 106 385 0 2,273

Total Terns, Guls and African Skimmer 6,138 0 403 1,112 159 7,812

Total waterbirds 11,833 102 3,202 2,969 220 18,326

Bold : numbers exceed the Ramsar 1% criterion [Delany&Scott, 2006]

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 104 APPENDICES APPENDIX 3. RECORDING PROBABILITY AND UPPER RANGE FACTORS FOR BIRD SPECIES IN DIFFERENT HABITATS. La probabilité de dénombrements et facteur d’estimation des espèces d’oiseaux dans les différents habitats. Recording probability 1 Habitat Upper rocky freshwater range Species sandy beach beach lagoon river mudflat mangrove factor 2 Long-tailed Cormorant 1.00 1.00 0.50 0.50 1.00 0.50 1.5 African Darter 1.00 1.00 0.50 0.50 1.00 0.25 3.0 Great White Pelican 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.5 Pink-backed Pelican 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.5 Squacco Heron 1.00 1.00 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 3.0 Cattle Egret 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 0.50 0.50 1.5 Green-backed Heron 1.00 1.00 0.25 0.50 0.50 0.25 3.0 Western Reef Heron 1.00 1.00 0.25 0.50 0.50 0.25 1.5 Little Egret 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 0.50 0.50 3.0 Intermediate Egret 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 0.50 0.50 1.5 Great White Egret 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 0.50 0.50 1.5 Purple Heron 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 0.50 0.50 1.5 Grey Heron 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 0.50 0.50 1.5 Black-headed Heron 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 0.50 0.50 3.0 Goliath Heron 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 0.50 0.50 1.5 Hamerkop 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 Yellow-billed Stork 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 African Openbill Stork 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 Woolly-necked Stork 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 Hadada Ibis 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 Sacred Ibis 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 Little Grebe 1.00 1.00 0.50 0.50 1.00 0.25 1.5 White-faced Whistling Duck 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 Spur-winged Goose 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 Hartlaub's Duck 1.00 1.00 0.25 0.50 0.50 0.25 3.0 African Pygmy Goose 1.00 1.00 0.25 0.50 0.50 0.25 3.0 Black Crake 1.00 1.00 0.10 0.10 1.00 0.10 3.0 African Finfoot 1.00 1.00 0.25 0.25 1.00 0.25 3.0 African Jacana 1.00 1.00 0.50 0.50 1.00 0.50 3.0 Black-winged Stilt 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 Pied Avocet 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 Senegal Thick-knee 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 Rock Pratincole 1.00 1.00 0.50 0.50 1.00 0.50 1.5 Grey Pratincole 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 Little Ringed Plover 1.00 0.90 0.50 0.90 0.90 0.25 3.0 Ringed Plover 1.00 0.90 0.50 0.90 0.90 0.25 1.5 White-fronted Plover 1.00 0.90 0.50 0.90 0.90 0.25 1.5 Grey Plover 1.00 0.90 0.50 0.90 0.90 0.25 1.5 White-headed Lapwing 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 Sanderling 1.00 0.80 0.50 0.90 0.90 0.25 1.5 Little Stint 1.00 0.80 0.50 0.90 0.90 0.25 1.5 Curlew Sandpiper 1.00 0.80 0.50 0.90 0.90 0.25 1.5 Ruff 1.00 0.80 0.50 0.90 0.90 0.25 1.5 Common Snipe 1.00 0.80 0.50 0.90 0.90 0.25 1.5

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 105 APPENDICES Black-tailed Godwit 1.00 0.90 0.80 0.90 1.00 0.25 1.5 Bar-tailed Godwit 1.00 0.90 0.80 0.90 1.00 0.25 1.5 Whimbrel 1.00 0.90 0.80 0.90 1.00 0.25 3.0 Eurasian Curlew 1.00 0.90 0.80 0.90 1.00 0.25 1.5 Common Redshank 1.00 0.90 0.80 0.90 1.00 0.25 1.5 Marsh Sandpiper 1.00 0.80 0.50 0.90 0.90 0.25 3.0 Common Greenshank 1.00 0.90 0.80 0.90 1.00 0.25 1.5 Green Sandpiper 1.00 0.90 0.80 0.90 1.00 0.25 1.5 Wood Sandpiper 1.00 0.90 0.80 0.90 1.00 0.25 1.5 Common Sandpiper 1.00 0.90 0.80 0.90 1.00 0.25 1.5 Ruddy Turnstone 1.00 0.90 0.80 0.90 0.90 0.25 1.5 Lesser Black-backed Gull 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 Yellow-legged Gull 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 Gull-billed Tern 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 Caspian Tern 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 0.50 3.0 Royal Tern 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 Sandwich Tern 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 Common Tern 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 Little Tern 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5 Black Tern 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 0.50 3.0 African Skimmer 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 0.50 1.5

1: Recording probability. The chance that a bird was seen depends on bird size, behaviour and habitat and was estimated for each species - habitat combination. This chance included the fact that some of these birds occur in groups. E.g. if you miss out on Curlew Sandpiper, you miss out on at least 10, whereas with a Green-backed Heron it’s one. Therefore the recording probability for these congregatory species was corrected to allow for groups rather than individuals of birds to be missed. The resulting so-called recording probability was estimated based on expert judgement of the authors of this chapter. 2: The estimated range was determined by the lower and upper range limit. The lower range limit was always set as the estimate. The upper range was calculated as a function of the estimate and calculated for each species. Species that were most likely patchily distributed (like terns) or scattered in inaccesible habitat (like herons in the mangroves) had a higher upper range than species that were evenly distributed in easily accessible habitat (e.g. waders on mudflats).

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 106 APPENDICES APPENDIX 4. FRACTION OF HABITAT COVERAGE OF THE MAIN WATERBIRD HABITATS ALONG THE CAMEROON COAST. Le taux de couvertures des différents habitats en oiseaux d’eaux le long de la côte Camerounaise. Mount Ndian Cameroon basin coast Wouri estuary habitat Not habitat Not habitat Habitat Surveyed Not surveyed coverage Surveyed surveyed coverage Surveyed surveyed coverage (km) (km) (fraction) (km) (km) (fraction) (km) (km) (fraction) tidal mudflats 8 1.00 60 1.00 mangroves 20 80 0.20 20 40 0.33 sandy beaches 10 0.00 20 0.00 rocky beaches 27 23 0.53 rivers freshwater lagoons 3 1.00 3 1.00

total 28 90 30 23 83 60

Sanaga South coast Total coast habitat Not habitat habitat Habitat Surveyed Not surveyed coverage Surveyed surveyed coverage Surveyed Not surveyed coverage (km) (km) (fraction) (km) (km) (fraction) (km) (km) (fraction) tidal mudflats 68 0 1.00 mangroves 40 120 0.25 sandy beaches 1 1.00 93 71 0.57 94 101 0.48 rocky beaches 27 23 0.53 rivers 71 1.00 71 0 1.00 freshwater lagoons 21 50 0.30 28 50 0.36

total 94 50 93 71 328 295 0.53

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 107 APPENDICES

APPENDIX 5. MONITORING DATA WATERBIRDS LOWER SANAGA RIVER 1999-2006. Les données pour le suivi des oiseaux d’eaux de la partie aval du fleuve du Sanaga (1999-2006). Species Year Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Great Cormorant 2004 1 Long-tailed Cormorant 1999 2 2000 3 2 2 2 1 2001 1 1 1 2002 2 1 2003 2 1 2004 2 White Cormorant? 2005 1 African Darter 1999 4 5 9 11 6 4 3 1 3 9 2000 6 12 3 12 2 1 1 6 2001 8 3 5 5 1 4 3 2002 6 5 7 2 3 5 2 1 1 2 9 2003 11 11 6 10 1 4 6 1 2 1 2004 5 5 6 7 8 4 1 2 7 2005 11 1 6 3 9 4 4 3 6 2006 8 6 4 4 5 6 1 3 7 7 Pink-backed Pelican 2000 1 4 2005 8 2006 1 Little Bittern 2000 1 1 2004 1 Black-crowned Night Heron 2000 1 2001 1 1 1 1 2005 1 Squacco Heron 1999 1 1 2000 1 2 2002 4 3 2003 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 2004 2 1 1 2 2005 1 1 1 2 2006 1 6 1 Cattle Egret 1999 1 2000 1 1 1 2 2 2001 5 14 2 2002 1 2 1 1 8 16 2003 10 1 1 15 4 2004 3 23 2005 2 2 8 2 1 6 12 2006 1 2 7 6 2 Green-backed Heron 1999 1 1 2000 3 3 2 1 2001 1 3 1 1 2 2 2002 1 1 1 Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 108 APPENDICES 2003 1 2 2 1 2004 1 1 2 1 2 2005 2 2006 1 Little Egret 1999 28 18 25 15 8 5 1 2 9 18 2000 22 17 17 29 9 1 5 56 33 2001 27 30 11 12 5 12 2 1 25 27 2002 39 32 25 12 10 13 13 4 4 9 22 2003 31 34 19 46 9 6 6 3 15 25 2004 34 18 14 12 12 9 4 3 8 13 21 2005 30 25 21 22 19 10 8 10 2 2 15 26 2006 33 34 25 33 19 10 5 3 3 12 37 Intermediate Egret 1999 3 3 1 1 1 30 2000 1 1 2001 1 2003 2 2004 1 1 1 Great Egret 1999 1 1 6 4 2000 2 2001 2 1 1 1 2002 1 1 1 1 2 5 2003 1 1 2004 2 1 1 1 1 2 2005 1 1 2 2006 1 Purple Heron 1999 1 1 2000 1 1 2001 1 2002 1 1 8 1 2003 2 1 1 2 2 2004 1 1 1 7 1 3 2005 2 1 2 1 1 1 1 2 2006 1 2 1 1 Grey Heron 1999 3 3 4 1 3 5 2 1 9 8 2000 8 7 6 3 1 1 1 2 4 2001 3 4 5 3 2 3 2 1 7 10 2002 3 6 3 1 2 1 2 1 2 7 11 2003 6 6 3 3 6 7 1 3 5 2004 6 1 3 1 5 5 1 8 2 8 6 2005 9 6 9 8 5 5 5 2 4 4 7 2006 6 10 10 3 4 3 3 2 4 3 Black-headed Heron 1999 1 2002 2 2003 1 2 7 1 2004 1 1 2 2 2005 1 3 2006 1 Goliath Heron 1999 1 1 2000 1 1 1 1 2 2001 1 2 1 1 2002 1 1 1 1

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 109 APPENDICES 2003 2 1 2004 1 1 2005 1 1 2006 1 Yellow-billed Stork 1999 1 12 7 2000 2 11 2 5 2002 6 14 2003 9 2004 22 2005 3 2006 2 African Openbill Stork 1999 254 127 189 35 2 1 51 2000 255 221 269 94 95 3 18 46 224 2001 336 125 62 50 25 65 2002 111 183 81 25 2 1 1 20 2 27 174 2003 81 22 13 124 3 1 18 53 56 2004 137 203 69 26 22 1 17 52 2005 31 280 22 30 1 4 51 2006 204 43 113 115 43 51 4 2 280 Woolly-necked Stork 1999 2 1 1 1 2000 1 1 1 2001 4 5 2 1 3 2002 4 4 1 2003 6 2 1 4 2004 4 2 2 3 5 1 2005 4 1 2 1 2006 3 2 1 Hadada Ibis 1999 2 2 2 5 14 1 2 6 8 2000 4 1 4 9 3 3 2 2001 1 3 2 4 6 9 5 6 11 7 2002 4 4 5 10 11 2 6 3 2 9 4 2003 4 2 1 9 4 4 6 3 3 6 4 6 2004 1 5 4 4 14 7 9 6 9 2005 2 7 2 6 5 9 6 8 7 5 2 2006 3 3 4 2 2 1 16 2 4 13 7 Sacred Ibis 2000 1 6 2003 1 African Black Duck 2004 1 African Pygmy Goose 2000 2 2001 4 2002 8 2 2003 3 2 2004 1 1 4 2005 2 2 2006 2

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 110 APPENDICES

Hartlaub's Duck 1999 2 1 2000 1 4 2 1 2 1 2001 1 5 1 1 2 2002 8 6 2 5 2 7 1 2003 2 4 4 7 1 5 1 2004 2 10 3 2 2 1 2005 4 4 7 4 2006 1 2 2 5 3 2 Black Crake 2001 5 5 2002 2 4 3 2 6 2 8 2003 4 3 4 4 2 4 2004 1 3 1 3 12 1 5 2005 3 2 3 2 3 7 6 12 2 2 6 2006 5 5 4 5 2 7 1 1 16 African Finfoot 1999 11 6 3 5 4 2 5 1 9 2000 4 4 6 3 3 1 3 7 3 2001 5 7 8 1 2 1 1 1 2 12 2002 3 10 7 1 2 2 2 1 1 1 2003 6 5 5 4 4 3 2 3 2004 1 6 6 3 6 2 3 2005 3 3 7 1 4 4 1 2 2006 3 3 2 2 2 3 1 4 African Jacana 1999 2 2000 1 2001 1 2002 1 1 2003 1 1 2005 2 2006 1 1 1 Lesser Jacana 2002 1 Black Winged Stilt 2004 2 2005 1 Senegal Thick-knee 1999 4 2 1 2 2000 3 3 4 2001 3 5 7 2 2 2 2002 1 9 17 9 20 2 2 1 2 3 2003 9 9 11 16 12 3 3 4 2004 6 11 2 5 2005 10 10 20 11 15 2 3 2006 8 6 4 9 11 2 5 Egyptian Plover 2000 1 Grey Pratincole 1999 71 305 178 113 187 261 1 453 2000 234 246 127 133 249 540 16 239 291 2001 366 183 202 481 241 525 372 223 583 135 2002 158 212 173 105 162 327 423 298 539 283 2003 173 401 206 305 180 282 471 152 657 457 2004 244 291 247 153 369 682 333 194 693 2005 364 396 261 228 456 438 482 410 200 428

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 111 APPENDICES 2006 499 359 478 556 608 806 235 7 400 450 264 Little Ringed Plover 1999 3 11 20 3 2000 6 6 1 2001 2 1 1 2003 1 4 2004 1 2006 4 1 Ringed Plover 1999 7 2000 5 1 1 2001 4 2002 2 2004 3 2 2005 1 2006 1 4 1 Kittliz's Plover 1999 1 2003 1 2004 1 2005 1 2 2006 2 1 1 1 Forbes's Plover 2004 6 3 1 2005 1 Kentish Plover 1999 7 2001 2 4 2002 4 6 10 4 6 16 2003 9 6 1 5 5 6 2 8 2004 3 2 2 10 2005 4 7 11 8 6 8 19 2006 20 12 8 6 7 9 1 1 7 White-fronted Plover 1999 1 20 7 2000 15 1 1 3 11 2 6 2001 3 5 4 1 7 1 5 3 2002 16 4 2 2 1 1 5 2003 1 1 1 1 4 2004 3 19 2 2005 3 1 1 4 4 2006 4 1 1 1 Grey Plover 2000 1 2001 2 2003 1 1 4 2004 2 1 2005 3 3 2006 4 White-headed Lapwing 1999 6 5 13 5 8 2000 10 18 10 6 7 19 30 2001 17 18 16 2 6 3 24 19 2002 19 19 29 17 6 8 1 31 18 2003 21 40 23 30 10 5 6 26 38 2004 27 15 28 9 7 2 6 15 2005 18 21 33 28 10 8 11 31 2006 27 19 26 23 15 2 2 11 13 Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 112 APPENDICES Red Knot 1999 7 2002 5 1 Sanderling 1999 6 2001 1 2005 1 2006 1 Little Stint 1999 3 2 2000 5 5 1 1 2001 2 3 1 2003 3 57 1 2004 1 2 5 2005 3 2 4 1 3 1 2006 1 1 1 Curlew Sandpiper 2004 1 Dunlin 2005 1 Black-tailed Godwit 2001 1 1 Whimbrel 1999 10 Curlew 2000 1 2002 1 Marsh Sandpiper 1999 1 2003 2 2004 1 2006 1 1 Common Greenshank 1999 21 10 7 2000 189 66 11 5 3 11 15 2001 138 34 11 3 1 3 21 64 2002 23 37 24 15 6 3 7 118 2003 30 12 5 3 12 5 4 2 28 2004 20 21 8 6 4 1 1 67 2005 23 120 2 22 10 5 9 26 2006 35 37 18 7 8 1 12 Wood Sandpiper 1999 4 1 2 2000 2 2001 3 2002 2 5 2 2 2003 1 2004 1 1 2005 1 1 2006 2 1 Common Sandpiper 1999 3 13 2 1 1 3 3 16 2000 7 10 8 4 2 3 7 3 37 2001 7 18 7 13 3 3 4 19 2002 9 13 11 4 4 8 5 2 9 21 2003 17 14 4 7 1 2 3 4 1 9 2004 5 6 12 1 2 4 3 26 2005 36 25 5 2 1 6 8 4 19 2006 12 12 11 4 1 1 2 2 3 18 Turnstone 1999 18 3

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 113 APPENDICES 2001 5 16 2 2002 5 3 2003 3 3 2006 10 Caspian Tern 1999 14 2004 4 Royal Tern 1999 1 3 2003 3 13 2 Little Tern 1999 1 2003 17 2004 5 6 2005 1 2006 3 5 Black Tern 2001 4 2002 3 4 2004 1 2005 29 4 African Skimmer 1999 3 54 122 107 11 2000 74 444 201 2001 435 470 221 470 2002 14 389 653 1532 1855 1327 2003 202 321 1211 1532 120 2004 205 682 514 653 17 2005 22 258 227 395 620 100 2006 307 700 657 506 630 549

Waterbird census of coastal Cameroon and Sanaga River 114

WIWO

Foundation Working Group for International Waterbird and Wetland Research

WIWO, a foundation according to Dutch law, was established in 1983 to form an unifying centre for Dutch ornithologists who participated in ornithological expeditions to West-Africa, and to encourage that kind of future activities. The aims of WIWO are to initiate, stimulate and organize scientific research on waterbirds and wetlands and to transfer the gathered knowledge for the protection of the populations involved and their habitats. WIWO is an organisation only working with unpaid volunteers which have a varying scientific background. The research data collected in the field during WIWO-projects often require laborious efforts at home to evaluate, analyse and report them. Up to 2002 over 80 projects have been carried out in more than 20 countries.

During the expeditions important data have been collected on waterbirds in a large number of wetlands along the entire East Atlantic Flyway, along the Mediterranean Flyway and in the Arctic. Furthermore, information has been collected on the function, importance and extent of protection and threats to the visited wetlands. WIWO's main role is to gather knowledge on migration, wintering and breeding of waterbirds and their habitats, to provide a sound basis for the protection of the populations and areas concerned. The results are made available to all organisations and individuals active in nature conservation through a series of WIWO-reports as well as scientific and popular papers. Up to 2002 over 75 reports have been published. WIWO does not act as co-ordinating organisation such as Birdlife and IUCN. The main strength of WIWO is its capability to mobilize volunteers with a professional attitude for ornithological research expeditions.

All correspondence should be sent to

WIWO, Rijksstraatweg 178, 6573 DG BEEK-UBBERGEN The Netherlands.

WIWO report 83, 2007

A bird survey was carried out from January to March 2007 of the coastal wetlands of Cameroon and the lower Sanaga River. Cameroon is situated on the East Atlantic and Mediterranean flyways, migration routes for Palearctic waders, terns and other bird species. This WIWO report describes the results of this study. The coastal wetlands are described, and for all 66 species of waterbirds present, numbers and estimates for the total coast are presented. The coast of Cameroon is important for Palaearctic waders and afrotropical waterbirds. Numbers of African Skimmer, Grey Pratincole, Royal tern and Little Tern exceed the 1% population threshold. Three areas, the Ndian Basin on the Northern coast, the Wouri or Douala estuary and the lower reaches of the Sanaga pass several criteria for the Ramsar convention and qualify as wetland of international importance. All three areas currently face threats of habitat destruction due to human interventions including oil exploration, hydropower dam construction, industrial developments, clearing of mangroves and overfishing. Conservation actions are recommended, including designation of three areas under the Ramsar Convention and poverty alleviation programs for the population that inhabit these areas. Opportunities for birding tourism along the coast of Cameroon are described.

WIWO report no. 83, 2007