Assessment of crop raiding by wild boar (Sus scrofa) in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Nepal

Abstract

Human-wildlife conflict arises when human and wildlife species come under the same niche leading to competition for available natural resources. The conflict increases particularly near the protected areas. The conflict between human and wildlife is closely linked to the economics, social welfare and resource availability. This study envisaged to access the crop damage by Wild Boar (Sus scrofa) and its effects on the livelihood of local people in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve (DHR). Direct field measurements on the damaged area from Wild Boar, a questionnaire survey to the local people and key informant interviews were used for data collection during August 9 to September 9, 2022. A total 268 households were selected for questionnaire survey. Wild Boar was the major crop raider, and Potato (Solanum tuberosum) was the major crop loss. The yearly loss is 8.59% (98568.38 kg) of Potato and 5.75% (4110.62 kg) of Oat (Avena sativa) of total production. Total average annual economic loss in DHR was NRs. 62113.39 (USD 472.27) per household including Potato and Oat. Majority of local people had negative attitude towards wildlife conservation. Commonly shouting, scaring by biting tin boxes, guarding and releasing dog, stone wall and wooden bar were the main preventive measures applied by local people in DHR, which are not effective. So, this study suggest that to minimize the crop loss form Wild Boar, adapting alternative crop like hot pepper, using repellents (chemical sprays and natural deterrents), regulate hunting and proper relief funds might be helpful.