Depredation of Crop Caused By Monkeys nearby ShivapuriNagarjun National Park, Kathmandu, Nepal

Abstract

Macaca mulatta, and Macaca assamensis are common monkeys in Nepal. The Macaca assamensis was categorized as ‘Vulnerable’ under IUCN Red List. The habitat of the monkey was disturbed because of human interference and hence the consequence is frequent damage of human’s properties. However, there was limited study regarding the crop damage caused by monkeys in Nepal. Therefore, this study was objectively conducted to assess the damages and their spatial distribution caused by Monkeys nearby Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park and also find the causes of interface between humans and Monkey. Four sites were visited and 120 house hold survey was done to collect the primary data. The GPS coordinates of the spatial distribution of damages were recorded. Secondary information about the damages was collected from 2019 to 2022. Descriptive and statistical analysis like trend analysis, principle component analysis and mapping of distribution of damages was done. The result showed that, the highest damage of the maize at Nayagaun, Thulogaun with 650 Kg while this was the lowest around 280 Kg. Similarly, the highest maize damage at Naagarjun, Gufagairi, Sarung danda was 400 Kg while the highest record of crop damage at Raniban, Ichangu Narayan was 190 Kg. The distribution map showed that there were 12 locations of maize damage over 450 kg at Nayagaun, Thulogaun. Similarly, the map of Goldhunga showed 17 places having medium damage (120-350 kg), 28 places of low damage (50-120 kg) while the 5 places of very low damage (<50 kg). The principle component analysis showed the causes of interface between humans and monkeys. The use of catapult in Nayagaun, Thulogaun, shout and charge threat in Naagarjun, Gufagairi, Sarung danda and in Raniban, Ichangu Narayan were the most influencing factors of this interface. This research will be useful for scientific community and policy maker.