<b>Review and analysis of human and Mugger Crocodile conflict in Gujarat, India from 1960 to 2013</b>

Abstract

Human-Crocodile conflict (HCC) occurs to varying degrees around the World, and with a number of crocodilian species (CrocBITE 2013). The Mugger or Marsh Crocodile Crocodylus palustris found in Gujarat State is the crocodilian species responsible for conflict with local people. This paper is a compilation of HCC occurring in various parts of Gujarat from 1960 to 2013. A total of 64 crocodile attacks were recorded: 44 (24 fatal & 20 non-fatal) on males, and 20 (9 fatal & 11 non-fatal) on females. By region 52 HCC were recorded in central Gujarat; five in Saurashtra, four in the northern region and three in Kutch; no crocodile attacks were recorded in southern Gujarat. Of the two major river systems in central Gujarat, 41 attacks occurred within the Vishwamitri-Dhadhar River System and 11 in the Narmada system. Most crocodile attacks happened between the months of April and September, peaking in May with 14 attacks. These months are the peak breeding season for the species in Gujarat. The most obvious contributors to HCC are lack of basic facilities in rural areas, poverty, illiteracy and the presence of adult animals close to human settlements and activities. Other contributing factors are lack of preventive measures by the forest department, absence of protocols for mugger crocodile rescue, and haphazard release of problematic animals.