Table of Contents
Abstract. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 5
INTRODUCTION.. 5
1.1 Background to the Study.. 5
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 6
1.3 Objectives of the Study.. 7
1.4 Research Questions. 8
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 8
1.6 Significance of the Study.. 9
1.7 Scope of the Study.. 9
1.8 Limitations of the Study.. 10
1.9 Organization of the Study.. 10
1.10 Definition of Terms. 11
CHAPTER TWO.. 14
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 14
2.1 Introduction.. 14
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 14
2.2.1 Habitat Loss and Fragmentation Theory. 14
2.2.2 Temperature Stress Theory. 14
2.2.3 Disease Dynamics Theory. 15
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 15
2.4 Empirical Review.. 20
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 22
CHAPTER THREE.. 23
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY.. 23
3.1 Introduction.. 23
3.2 Research Design.. 23
3.3 Study Area.. 24
3.4 Population of the Study.. 24
3.5 Sampling Techniques. 25
3.6 Data Collection Methods. 25
3.7 Data Analysis Procedures. 26
3.8 Ethical Considerations. 26
3.9 Limitations of the Study.. 27
3.10 Conclusion.. 27
CHAPTER FOUR.. 28
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 28
4.1 Preamble.. 28
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 28
TABLES BASED ON RESEARCH QUESTIONS.. 32
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one:. 32
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 43
CHAPTER FIVE. 47
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS. 47
5.1 Summary of Findings. 47
5.2 Conclusion.. 47
5.3 Recommendations. 48
REFERENCES. 49
Research Questionnaire.. 52
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Climate change poses significant threats to animal populations worldwide, including those in Nigeria, by altering ecosystems and disrupting vital habitats. As one of the most biodiverse regions globally, Nigeria harbors a rich variety of wildlife species that are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change. This introduction explores the multifaceted impacts of climate change on Nigerian animal populations, encompassing shifts in distribution patterns, habitat degradation, and altered reproductive behaviors.
Firstly, climate change-induced alterations in temperature and precipitation patterns are leading to shifts in the geographical ranges of many species in Nigeria. For instance, species dependent on specific temperature regimes or rainfall patterns may face challenges as these conditions change unpredictably (Ogidi-Cole et al., 2020). Additionally, rising temperatures could force animals to migrate to higher altitudes or latitudes in search of suitable habitats, potentially bringing them into conflict with human settlements or altering predator-prey dynamics (Oyebanji et al., 2021).
Secondly, habitat loss and degradation resulting from climate change exacerbate the pressures on Nigerian wildlife. Deforestation, driven by factors such as increased drought frequency or human activities, reduces available habitats for many species, pushing them towards extinction (Abiodun et al., 2019). This loss is particularly critical for endemic species found only in specific regions of Nigeria, such as the Cross River gorilla or the Nigerian-Cameroon chimpanzee, which face heightened risks of extinction due to shrinking habitats.
Furthermore, climate change impacts animal populations in Nigeria by disrupting crucial ecological processes and food webs. For example, changes in rainfall patterns can affect the availability of food resources for herbivores, which in turn impacts carnivores dependent on them (Ogundipe et al., 2022). Such disruptions can lead to cascading effects throughout ecosystems, potentially reducing biodiversity and ecosystem stability.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The impact of climate change on animal populations in Nigeria presents a pressing and multifaceted problem that threatens biodiversity and ecosystem stability. Rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and increasing frequency of extreme weather events are significantly disrupting habitats and ecological processes essential for the survival of numerous species. For instance, shifts in temperature regimes can lead to changes in the timing of biological events such as breeding seasons or migration patterns, which may adversely affect reproductive success and population dynamics (Akpan et al., 2023). Moreover, habitat loss and degradation driven by climate-induced factors like deforestation and desertification pose severe challenges to wildlife survival in Nigeria, particularly for species already facing fragmented habitats and restricted ranges (Ogidi-Cole et al., 2020).
Furthermore, the socio-economic implications of climate change exacerbate the vulnerability of animal populations in Nigeria. Human activities such as agriculture, urbanization, and industrialization further encroach upon wildlife habitats, limiting available space and resources for species to adapt to changing climatic conditions. The resultant competition for resources and increased human-wildlife conflicts underscore the need for integrated conservation strategies that account for both ecological and socio-economic dimensions (Oyebanji et al., 2021). Addressing these intertwined challenges requires a comprehensive understanding of how climate change impacts different species across various ecosystems in Nigeria and developing adaptive management approaches to mitigate these effects.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine the impact of climate change on animal populations in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To assess the direct impacts of climate change on the population dynamics of selected terrestrial and aquatic animal species in Nigeria.
- To evaluate the indirect effects of climate change on animal populations in Nigeria through changes in habitat, food availability,
- To identify vulnerable animal populations in Nigeria and develop adaptation strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of climate change.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- How have changes in temperature, precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events influenced the population size and behavior of key animal species in Nigeria?
- What are the specific mechanisms through which climate change is altering habitat suitability, food resources, and disease ecology, thereby affecting animal populations in Nigeria?
- Which animal populations in Nigeria are most vulnerable to climate change, and what adaptation strategies can be implemented to enhance their resilience and survival?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant impact of climate change on animal populations in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Zoology sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Ogba Zoo, Benin City. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
1.10 Definition of Terms
1. Climate Change
Refers to long-term shifts in temperature, precipitation, and other atmospheric conditions due to human activities such as greenhouse gas emissions, leading to alterations in weather patterns globally and regionally.
2. Animal Populations
The number of individual animals of a particular species within a specific geographic area at a given time, often studied to understand ecological dynamics and conservation needs.
3. Biodiversity
The variety and variability of life forms on Earth, including species diversity, genetic diversity, and ecosystem diversity, crucial for ecosystem stability and resilience.
4. Habitat Degradation
The process whereby natural habitats are compromised, altered, or destroyed, often due to human activities such as deforestation, urbanization, and pollution, which negatively impact animal populations.
5. Migration Patterns
The regular movements of animals from one region or habitat to another, often in response to seasonal changes or resource availability, which can be disrupted by climate change affecting food sources or nesting grounds.
6. Adaptation Strategies
Mechanisms and behaviors that animals develop over time to cope with environmental changes, including physiological adaptations (e.g., changes in body size or metabolism) and behavioral adaptations (e.g., altering migration routes or nesting times).
7. Conservation Efforts
Actions and policies aimed at protecting and preserving animal populations and their habitats, including habitat restoration, captive breeding programs, and legal protections, crucial in mitigating the impact of climate change on vulnerable species in Nigeria.
