Assessment of crop raiding by wild boar (Sus scrofa) in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Nepal
Date
2023
Authors
Gharti Magar, Yamuna
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Department of Zoology
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.
Description
Keywords
Crop raiding, Biodiversity conservation, Crop damage, Human civilization