The Influence of Microhabitat Characteristics on Habitat Use and Behaviour of Vervet Monkeys (Chlorocebus Pygerythus) in a Human-Modified Landscape

As human encroachment on wildlife habitat continues, it is imperative to understand the spatial habitat requirements of species living within modified environments. One species that lives in human-modified environments is the vervet monkey (Chlorocebus pygerythrus). The aim of this study was to investigate what features of the microhabitat impact vervet monkey habitat and behavioural use in a human-modified environment. I used a five-year data set (2016-2020) that followed a standardized 15-minute scan sampling protocol collecting behavioural and location data on three groups of vervet monkeys at Lake Nabugabo, Uganda. The results showed habitat use, feeding, resting, and social grooming exhibited a weak relationship with areas close to buildings, kitchens, and the forest edge, but far from crops, roads, and paths. These findings suggest interesting links among behaviour, space use, perceived risks and benefits. This research highlights the trade-offs associated with landscape use by vervets within human encroachment constraints.