Assessing Bushmeat Trade in Bo, Southern Sierra Leone

Bushmeat trade assessment was conducted in Bo town, southern Sierra Leone. Samples collected in five bush meat markets. Bush meat trade is cardinal in the lives of those in the trade. The decrease in wildlife population has been acknowledged as a major concern by conservationists and the locals. Structured questionnaire was the research instrument used. Strategies employed included Focus group discussions and Observation (direct and participation). The sample size was fifty two respondents. Twenty four species belonging to five taxa were recorded as bushmeat sold in Bo town. Six observed to be of Conservation Concern in IUCN Red list. Nationally they are protected also. Four methods identified in the harvesting of bushmeat. The prices of bushmeat vary within and between species. The most expensive is Leones 500, 000 /US $90 and the cheapest Le 5, 000/ US $ 0.7.