Spatial-temporal patterns of human-wildlife conflicts under coupled impact of natural and anthropogenic factors in Mt. Gaoligong, western Yunnan, China

Abstract

Human-wildlife conflicts (HWC) are major conservation concerns that threaten both wildlife and rural livelihoods, and can vary spatially and temporally in diverse environments. A better understanding of HWC enhances mitigation strategies and promotes human-wildlife coexistence. We gathered HWC incidents from 2012 to 2021 in Longyang District, Yunnan Province, China, to assess their spatial-temporal patterns and determinants. We found that HWC were distributed unevenly, with more occurring near the protected area and away from densely populated areas. Poisson regression indicated that forests and croplands were the key factors influencing the spatial patterns of HWC for Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus), but shrubs for rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta). Furthermore, the HWC occurrences fluctuated across time, peaking in August-October. These conflicts intensified between 2012 and 2021, mainly involving wild boars (Sus scrofa) and rhesus monkeys, while HWC involving Asiatic black bears declined slightly. We suggest a multi-faceted strategy with compensation, prevention, and conservation awareness to mitigate HWC in this region.