Human-wildlife Conflict in Kitam Bird Sanctuary: Perceptions and Possible Solutions

Abstract

Human-wildlife conflict (HWC) in the form of crop-raiding and attack by wild animals has become integral part for communities located at the borders of protected areas. Stratified-random sample of 103 respondents of 5 villages living in the Kitam Bird Sanctuary were interviewed to understand and manage growing concerns. Most of the farmers interviewed suffered major financial losses annually due to crop damage by wild pigs (Sus scrofa), Indian peacock (Pavo cristatus), Barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak), Assamese macaque (Macaca assamensis), Assamese rabbit (Caprolagus hispidus), Crestless Porcupines (Hystrix hodsoni), and Jungle fowl (Gallus gallus). A huge majority of respondents considered wild boar to be the most destructing animal among the crop raiders due to the significant adaptability of this animal in their surroundings. The only livestock mostly depredated was Goat by its only depredator, Common leopard (Panthera pardus) with an average loss of 1.55 goats per house. Nonlethal methods such as guarding, constant vigilance during crop seasons, scarecrows, scaring away animals when seen, etc. are the measures adopted to protect their fields.