| dc.description.abstract | In order to successfully achieve terrestrial biodiversity
protection and conservation, more information is needed about
the variety of plants and animal species existing in the ecosphere.
Although biodiversity constitute a great asset in Kenya and Busia
County at large, it is at risk of getting eroded due to increased
anthropogenic activities, and therefore the urgent need to
identify the various higher plants and animal species found in
this sub-county. In the past, plants and animals were abundant
in the area and currently some species are rare possibly due to
destruction of their habitats by human activities. However, there
is no known study that has focused on identifying the terrestrial
plants and animals in the division. The study focused on Matayos
division where biodiversity conservation issues have not been
adequately addressed. Cross-sectional descriptive research
design was used. A minimum sample size of 384 household heads
was taken out of a study population of 56,186. Matayos division
was stratified according to locations and then households
selected through simple random sampling for questionnaire
administration. Purposive sampling was used to get Key
Informants such as village elders, chiefs and Sub chiefs. Primary
data were collected through questionnaire administration, key
informant interview, Focus Group Discussion, Field Observation
and Photography. The results indicated that the division is
endowed with variety of terrestrial plants and animal species
which should be well protected. There is need for creating
communities’ awareness on the various activities carried out and
their effects on terrestrial biodiversity conservation so as to
ensure conservation of the available species. Establishment of
protected areas in the division to conserve these valuable species
could benefit the community and the Busia County at large. | en_US |
