ope Species Diversity Hunting in Plateaux region, located in the central part of the Republic of the Congo, provides a rewarding mix of elevated forest plateaus, rolling savannahs, and water-rich lowlands. Known for its expansive wilderness and relatively low population density, the region presents ideal conditions for traditional hunting. Hunting in Plateaux region is distinguished by the terrain diversity, access to prime habitats, and deeply rooted customs among rural communities. Geography and Natural Hunting Terrain The region is dominated by high forest plateaus intersected by river valleys, including the Alima and Lefini rivers. These varied habitats create ecotones ideal for species diversity. Open grasslands along the ridges and thick forests along the river basins offer contrasting but complementary hunting grounds. The climate follows a dry season from June to September and a wet season from October to May, affecting game behavior and hunter movement. Hunter Population and Engagement Plateaux is sparsely populated, with key settlements in Djambala, Gamboma, and Lekana. Most rural households include active hunters, and in some areas, hunting is a key livelihood activity. Though there are no comprehensive statistics, observations show that the region supports hundreds of informal hunting groups operating year-round. Hunting is both a subsistence and social activity. Hunting Practices and Tools Used Local hunters rely on a variety of tools, including homemade firearms, traditional snares, and hunting dogs. Stalking and ambushing are the primary methods in forested areas, while savannah zones allow for longer-range spotting. Night hunting is common with torches, especially for rodents and small antelopes. Hunters often travel on foot over long distances, setting up temporary camps during multi-day hunts. Species Targeted in the Plateaux Region Hunting in the Plateaux region targets a range of game animals, including: Blue duiker Bushbuck Red river hog Cane rat Guineafowl Civet cat Pangolin (though increasingly protected) Waterways also attract crocodiles and turtles, though these are less commonly pursued. The forest-savannah interface supports healthy populations of both grazing and browsing species, making the region productive for mixed-species tracking. Seasonal Patterns and Ideal Times The dry season (June–September) is the prime time for hunting due to reduced vegetation cover and more predictable animal movements. Game tends to concentrate near remaining water sources, and dry trails allow for silent tracking. Rainy season hunting is more difficult due to dense growth, swollen rivers, and dispersed animal activity. Community Hunting and Local Organization Though there are no formal hunting clubs, villages across Plateaux maintain hunting traditions through community knowledge-sharing and group expeditions. Seasonal hunting rites and cooperative drives are common. Elders often pass on bushcraft techniques to younger generations, and certain clans have exclusive rights to hunt specific territories or species, as recognized by local custom. Legal Oversight and Regional Enforcement Hunting in Plateaux falls under the national legal framework. Permits, protected species lists, and restrictions on hunting methods are in effect, but enforcement is limited in remote zones. In practice, hunting is largely self-regulated by community norms and the availability of game. However, near areas like the Lefini Faunal Reserve, oversight is more consistent due to proximity to eco-conservation zones. Cultural Dimensions of Hunting In many Plateaux communities, hunting holds spiritual and social weight. Pre-hunt rituals, especially among the Teke people, involve symbolic offerings and forest invocations. Skins, skulls, and horns are used in ceremonial decor. Storytelling about famous hunts and legendary trackers serves as both entertainment and oral history preservation. Notable Practices and Local Knowledge Hunters in Plateaux often use hanging scent traps—bundles of herbs or animal fat tied to tree limbs to attract game. Another technique is "game calling," where carved whistles mimic duiker or hog distress signals. In forested areas, hunters sometimes climb trees to scout animal movement from above. A unique tradition involves marking successful hunting grounds with carved symbols on bark or stones, visible only to local hunters.