Legacy of co-existence between rhino and people in a protected area in India

Abstract

Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary in the Indian state of Assam has the highest density of the globally threatened greater one-horned rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis) in the world. The sanctuary constitutes an area of 38.81 km.., which is relatively small for the rhino habitation. The contest for space and resources as a consequence, often triggers the megaherbivore...s movement in the fringe areas of human settlements. Interestingly, the episodes of the human-rhino conflict are less contrary to the existing situation, which this paper aims to explore by understanding the community...s perception towards wildlife, particularly the rhino. The five study villages and respondents were selected based on purposive sampling. The study highlights the role of attitudes, environmental ethics and, religious belief systems of the community while providing a space for co-existence for wildlife, which is a central issue today in conservation science and policy.