Black Caiman Field Study
The Rupununi region of Guyana currently hosts a rare, largely recovered population of Melanosuchus niger . A village-based long-term study in the Rupununi is an opportunity to gain an understanding of the black caiman's ecological role and its physical and cultural context with local Amerindians and wildlife managers. Through this knowledge it may be possible to build a new consensus for its management from the local level on up. Beyond its inherent value as a prime component of its ecosystem, an intact population may also serve as a sustainable resource for the indigenous peoples, whether for hides, meat or ecotourism.
Basic goals of the study:
1. Conduct a detailed ecological study of the black caiman within its Rupununi environment and for comparison with populations elsewhere.
2. Recommend management protocols to resolve human/caiman conflicts.
3. Develop a cadre of indigenous naturalists to provide the basis for the continued study of crocodilian species, to educate local people on conservation and management issues, and to assist in the implementation of sound conservation practices.
4. Promote active discussion of black caiman issues at village and regional levels.
5. Enhance our knowledge of the natural history and biology of black caiman through scientific publications and other media.
First Season Results
In the 2005/06 dry season, 146 non-hatchling black caiman were marked and 11 recaptured. Early trends show skewed ratio of males to females (107 males to 39 females, or 73.3% males, 26.7% females).
They have ranged in length from .567 meters to 3.62 meters (about 22 inches to 12 feet). 25 caiman (17.1%) have been males over 3 meters (about 10 feet); 8 (5.5%) females ranging from 2.5 to 2.73 meters (about 8.5 to 9 feet) in total length.
Data collected and treatment on each specimen include GPS capture points, caudal clippings, and PIT tagging. Morphometric, behavioral, and ecological data are recorded. 25 nests were examined. Data from 511 eggs from 15 undisturbed nests were obtained showing an egg clutch range of 26 to 39 (mean 34) eggs. Additionally, 69 hatchling caiman from six clutches were studied.
This project is planned to run at least two more full seasons, adding dietary analysis, genetic, and radio telemetry components. The local human/black caiman interface is being quantified as well, and caiman-based ecotourism is developing as a non-sacrificial economic benefit.