*7.3.3 Enrichment of gaps or windfalls*

Beyond assisted natural regeneration, enrichment of gaps of vegetation can only be planned if there is evidence of significant extension. If the soil quality and nature of the bedrock allow it, it is preferable to opt for rare species in the park, or those whose regeneration has been analyzed as weak, slowed or disturbed [22]. This would be an exception to the legally prescribed restrictions on trespassing in this type of protected area. It is not out of the question to consider soil restoration in these areas, if real difficulties arise.

### *7.3.4 Improving the quality of wildlife habitat*

Limitations in water supply, with a man-made pond drying up completely for 6–7 months a year (**Figure 10**), limited ecological connectivity and reduced surface area all act as barriers to animal flourishing in the MGNP. A drastic

**Figure 9.** *Proliferation of several stems of Azachdirata indica in the undergrowth.*

**Figure 10.** *Pond without water in dry season in CU2.*

decrease in the vertebrate community is a consequence of habitat degradation and habitat fragmentation [72]. Ponds constructed in the recent past have not achieved the desired objectives of permanent water conservation for wildlife, due to poorly conducted works. It is imperative to correct these shortcomings in the long term, at the risk of seeing a large part of the park's animal population perish in the near future. Also, the reduction of excessive overgrowth caused by the extension of thickets must be considered, notably by selective cutting of the species most concerned, which hinders the movement of certain animal species: *Senegalia ataxacantha*.
