Human-wild mammal interaction and the local people’s attitudes towards the mammals in Gara Bilita (Belete Gera) forest, South-West Ethiopia

ABSTRACT

The study investigated human-wild mammal interactions and the attitudes of the local people in southwest Ethiopia. Systematic random sampling techniques were used to select villages and respondents. Data was gathered through a questionnaire (open- and closed-ended questions). A total of 130 households from three krebeles were chosen (Sebeka Debiye = 27, Atiro Gefere = 54, and Sombo Deru = 49). Crop damage was the main impact from wild animals. The major mammals responsible for the crop damage were Papio anubis, Cercopithecus aethiops, Sus scrofa, Phacochoerus africanus, and Hystrix cristata, respectively. The identified predators were Crocuta crocuta, Panthera pardus, Leptailurus serval, Panthera leo, and Papio anubis. Habitat disturbance, agricultural expansion, and deforestation were the suspected causes of the damage. Local farmers used guards, scarecrows, chasing, and smoking to prevent crop raiders. The implementation of community-based conservation strategies and practical management plans for the coexistence of wild mammals and people is required.

KEYWORDS:

• Conservation measure
• crop raider
• forest
• livestock depredation
• negative attitude

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).