Status and trends of human-wildlife conflict: A case study of Lelep and Yamphudin region, Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, Taplejung, Nepal

Roshan Sherchan,Ananta Bhandari

doi:10.3126/cs.v5i1.24296

Abstract

Aim Human-wildlife conflict is one of the major challenges in Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. It may erode public support in wildlife conservation. Here, we review the extent to which wildlife damages livestock and crops. Location Lelep and Yamphudin region, Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, Taplejung, Nepal Materials and methodsThe study employed a combination of surveying methods such as focus group discussion, key informant interview and field observation from 21 July to 06 August 2013. Focus group discussion was done primarily with the representatives of snow leopard conservation committee in Lelep and Yamphudin. Key Findings Livestock depredation in Ghunsa valley, Lelep village development committee was increasing with an annual average loss rate of 11% in ten years (2005- 2014). Despite community-based insurance schemes, loss has increased to 28% from 17.2% in 2014. No retaliatory killings of snow leopards were reported since 2005, which may be attributable to the insurance scheme. In Yamphudin, the average annual livestock loss rate was 4.7% from 2005 to 2014, mostly by wild dogs. Similarly, crop damage was a severe problem in Yamphudin, mostly by the Himalayan black bear, palm civet, barking deer, rhesus monkey and porcupine. Conservation implication Although strict guarding was effective to reduce conflict, alternative strategy is needed that requires minimum human involvement. Premium and relief amount is inadequte. It therefore needs a thorough revision. Predator proof corals in Lonak, Dhudhpokhari, Ramjer and Dasa pasture can be effective means to reduce the potential conflict.

Highlights

Human-wildlife conflict is a phenomenon where wildlife negatively impacts on human wellbeing or when the actions of people are detrimental to the survival of wildlife (Madden 2004)
Lelep and Yamphudin village development committees were identified as study areas in consultation with Kanchenjunga Conservation Office and Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Management Council (Figure 2)
Yamphudin is the third largest village development committee with the population of 730 (CBS 2011) and Bhotegaun village of this development committee was included in study

Summary

Introduction

Human-wildlife conflict is a phenomenon where wildlife negatively impacts on human wellbeing or when the actions of people are detrimental to the survival of wildlife (Madden 2004). Humans have directly impacted upon wildlife in many areas of Nepal by the destruction, degradation and fragmentation of wildlife habitats through activities such as logging, animal husbandry, agricultural expansion, and developmental projects (Fernando et al 2005). The human wildlife conflict has even greater consequences for mega species such as wild elephants (Elephas maximus), rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) and big cats that require large quantities of food and extensive home ranges. Human wildlife conflict is confined to lowland area and can affect mountain communities in Nepal. Conflict with rural communities due to livestock depredation by large carnivores such as snow leopards (Panthera uncia), wild dogs (Cuon alpinus), common leopards (Panthera pardus) and wolves (Canis lupus) has risen sharply in recent years (Jackson et al 1996). Crop damage is a common issue in Himalayan caused by barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak), Himalyan black bear (Ursus thibetanus), Himalayan palm civet (Paguma larvata), porcupine (Hystrix indica) and monkey (Macaca mulatta)

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Results

Conclusion