Impacts of crop raiding by wildlife on communities in buffer zone of Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhutan

Abstract

This study was carried out in Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhutan to assess the consequence of crop raided by conflict species in four villages located in the buffer zone. Data were collected through semi-structured household interviews, direct observation, and key informant interviews. The majority of households interviewed (95.5%) reported the prevalence of crop depredation by wild animals. The results also indicated that crop loss was significant and more frequent near the forest edge compared to crops located distant from the forest. Porcupine was reported to be the most destructive wild animal followed by the monkey and wild pig. Wild animals caused considerable economic loss to households by raiding their crops. We propose collaboration between wildlife managers, researchers, and affected communities to come up with a sound management intervention strategy to lessen the crop raiding. For immediate and effective protection of the crops, we recommend the installation of solar and electric fencing to reduce the severity of crop raiding.