(Afzelius, 1815)

(Eng) Yellow-backed duiker

(Fre) Céphalophe à dos jaune

Sometimes considered as C. sylvicultor (Lumpkin & Kranz, 1984).

Lower Risk, near threatened (LR: nt).

A review of the literature available on the ecology of the species is found in Lumpkin & Kranz (1984); since then, very little has been added to the knowledge of this species. Information on habitat use and requirements is mainly available for the Kisangani Region (Heymans & Lejoly, 1981) and the north-eastern section of former Zaire (Rahm & Christiaensen, 1966). Heymans & Lejoly (1981) also give an estimate of the population density in the area surveyed. Notes on its habitat use are also found in Gautier-Hion et al.(1980), who analysed the feeding habits of several coexisting primary consumers in Gabon. Aspects of its behaviour were studied on captive animals by Kranz & Lumpkin (1982). The species' distribution in Angola is discussed by Feiler (1990). General information on the species' ecology is found in Kingdon (1997). East (1988, 1989, 1990) analyses status and distribution of this duiker, and also gives a description of the habitat in which it occurs.

Known extent of occurrence

Among forest duikers, the yellow-backed duiker has the widest distribution range (Wilson & Reeder, 1993; East, 1996). In Burundi and Rwanda it is likely to be exterminated (East, 1996). An isolated population occurs in the Mau Forest of Kenya (East, 1988). The distribution map was drawn on the basis of country maps in East (1988, 1989, 1990), as suggested by Dr. R. East (23 June '97). Its occurrence in Gabon also takes into account information in Gautier-Hion & Gautier (1994); its presence on Mt. Elgon on the Uganda-Kenya border is uncertain (East, 1988) (Fig. 8.6.61.a).

The species is associated with forest, gallery forest, forest patches and open bushland (Lumpkin & Kranz, 1984; East, 1988, 1989, 1990).

Based on these environmental preferences, the following scores were assigned (Fig. 8.6.61.b) (8.6.61.a):

The output of the probabilistic-continuous (PC) distribution model is shown in Fig. 8.6.61.c.

The known EO is one of the largest among the duikers and appears to be largely suitable. These results are supported by a good Index of Accordance (66.34%). The block of suitable areas in central former Zaire is the largest patch: it accounts for at least 46% of the total AO and is the most important part of the range. When the moderately suitable areas are also considered, the AO becomes almost one single patch even though its shape is highly fragmented (the AWMSI is particularly high). About 6% of the total AO is included in existing protected areas. The part of the range where the species' presence is considered possible does not add significantly to the overall EO and does not seem suitable.