IUCN / SSC Cat Specialist Group - Digital Cat Library |
|
||||||||||
|
||||||||||
|
|
| Thapa, T.B. | |
| Human-Felid Conflicts and Perspectives on Large Felid Management in Chitwan, Nepal | |
| 2007 Conference Proceeding | |
The increasing encounter between felid, livestock, and humans raises concerns about the large felid management. I assessed causes of livestock depredation by large felids (tiger and leopard); spatial and temporal distribution of depredation; and effectiveness of the conflict mitigation programs in the Chitwan National Park (CNP) through literature review, field study and participatory appraisals. Over 800 cases of depredation by large cats occurred between 2000 and 2003 showed depredation patterns are varied geographically, seasonally, and in relation to type/size of livestock and proximity to forests. Habitat encroachment, proximity to livestock, behavior of particular predator and intra specific competition are factors forcing felids to kill livestock. In spite of damage, the local people still had a positive attitude towards the felid, because of tangible benefits derived from the park management. Economic compensation, capacity building and local development through the strategy of participatory conservation are considered to be successful to some extent in reducing conflicts and developing local guardianship in conservation. This study clearly indicated that a shift in attitude of people towards wider recognition of felid for ecosystem function and adaptive management. |
|
 |
PDF files are only accessible to Friends of the Cat Group. Joining Friends of the Cat Group gives you unlimited access and downloads in the Cat SG Library for one year, and allows you to receive our newsletter Cat News (2 regular issues per year plus special issues). More information how to join here |
(c) IUCN/SSC Cat Specialist Group ( IUCN - The World Conservation Union) |