Availability pattern of key Wildlife species along five major roads of Southwest Nigeria

This study assembles different species of mammals and reptiles (as major sources of meat protein to man) which were displayed for sale in markets along five major highways in southwest Nigeria. Road 1 covers 264km, Road 2, stretches on 204km, Road 3 to 5 traverse the 120, 153 and 62 kilometers respectively. Wildlife markets along these roads were visited monthly for two years and mammalian with reptilian species displayed for sale in each market were recorded, this was done in 23 markets. Results revealed that Thryonomys swinderianus (grasscutters) was the most abundant mammal displayed for sale; this was followed by Cricetomys gambianus (giant rats) and Rufilatus cephalophus (Grey duiker) in descending order. The least sold along the all the road markets was Zebra (Equus guaagga). Among reptiles Veranus mambitang (Monitor lizard) was the leader while Kinixys erosa (Land Tortoise) was least sold the markets. Also, the highest frequencies of species displayed were seen along Roads 2, 4 and 5 because they fall within the catchment of forest reserves where biodiversity is high. These roads also link major commercial centres where vehicular movement is consistent. Rodents, ungulates, carnivores and primates were sold in descending order. The study recommends Government should expedite actions of environmental and natural resources conversation.