Q&A: How camera traps are used in conservation in DRC

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Yangambi is a biosphere reserve and research area within the Congo Basin. Sagesse Nziavake, a wildlife expert in DR Congo, explained to us how camera traps are enhancing conservation efforts in Yangambi, the challenges of working in remote forests and the essential role of community collaboration. “Camera traps have transformed how we understand and protect wildlife,” she states.

• Yangambi’s forests are biodiversity hotspots. However, decades of habitat loss and hunting have pushed many species to the brink. In the Congo Basin alone, forest elephant populations have declined by over 60% in the past decade, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

• New tools, such as camera traps, are aiding researchers in gathering critical data in areas that are too dense or dangerous for human observation. However, experts warn that without increased investment and local engagement, even the most advanced technology will not suffice to safeguard Africa’s wildlife.

More details

This Q&A was first published in the Forests News on July 02, 2024

What were some of the traditional methods of wildlife monitoring used in Yangambi, and what challenges did they present?

In the early days, monitoring wildlife in Yangambi was incredibly challenging. We depended on manual tracking, chance sightings, and anecdotal reports from hunters and local communities. Although this information was useful, the approach was labour-intensive and time-consuming, and often produced incomplete or inaccurate data due to the unpredictable nature of wildlife. The dense forest and difficult terrain also made direct observation and documentation especially tough.

How have camera traps changed the way wildlife is monitored in Yangambi?

Camera traps were a game-changer. These motion-sensitive devices take photos and videos of animals in their natural habitat, giving us unmatched insight into their behaviours, ranges, and population dynamics.

Unlike older methods, they provide continuous, non-intrusive monitoring, letting us observe wildlife without disturbance and gather data over long periods. This has transformed our understanding of Yangambi’s biodiversity and enabled more accurate tracking of key species and assessment of conservation outcomes.

What are some of the most significant findings made possible by camera traps in the region?

We’ve documented a rich variety of species, including some that were thought to be locally extinct, such as the forest buffalo (Syncerus caffer nanus), the endangered chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes), different pangolin species, and the checkered elephant shrew (Rhynchocyon cirnei).

We’ve also recorded red river hogs, blue duikers, and red duikers, among others. Beyond species identification, the data has helped us locate important biodiversity corridors and hotspots, which informs our conservation planning and land-use decisions.

What challenges do you face when deploying and maintaining camera traps in such a remote environment?

Installing and maintaining camera traps in remote, often harsh environments can be logistically difficult. There's also a learning curve in finding the best placement and settings to avoid false triggers or damage. Sometimes, animals knock them over or damage them, since they’re mounted on tree trunks that aren’t always far off the ground.

Another challenge is theft or destruction by people who don’t trust what the devices are for. In some cases, local residents believed the cameras were linked to mineral exploration or surveillance.

How have local communities responded to the presence of camera traps in their forests?

Initially, gaining community trust was a major hurdle. Given the DRC’s complex history of conflict over natural resources, there was suspicion. Despite prior awareness efforts, early installations were vandalised, and locals even dug around tree bases, believing we were searching for minerals.

Once they realised our true intentions, the relationship changed. Today, we work closely with local hunters who act as forest guides, helping us locate ideal sites and install or retrieve the cameras. Their indigenous knowledge has become invaluable.

We’ve also collaborated with communities to develop a five-year wildlife management plan. It includes improved governance, efforts to reduce environmental crimes, awareness-raising, and alternative livelihoods to reduce reliance on bushmeat hunting. The transformation in local attitudes has been remarkable.

Looking ahead, what future developments do you foresee in wildlife monitoring in Yangambi, particularly with advancing technology?

As technology advances, we expect to see even more sophisticated tools improving our conservation work. Artificial intelligence, remote sensing, and advanced data analytics have great potential to strengthen monitoring and provide actionable insights.

Still, it’s crucial to balance tech-driven approaches with traditional ecological knowledge, ensuring methods remain locally appropriate and community-inclusive. With continued collaboration and innovation, we can better protect Yangambi’s biodiversity for future generations.