IUCN / SSC Cat Specialist Group - Digital Cat Library |
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| Sogbohossou, E.A.; Sinsin, B. | |
| Tradition versus Conservation: Large Carnivores Socio-Cultural and Economic Importance in Benin, West Africa | |
| 2007 Conference Proceeding | |
While traditional medicine and its impact on wildlife conservation are well documented in Asia, few researches tackle the problem in Benin and West Africa in general. This study addresses the trade of lions and other large carnivores for traditional uses and its possible implication for conservation in Benin. Objectives were to inventory large carnivores and their products on markets, study the marketing network of these products, inventory local knowledge related to carnivores' conservation and make suggestions for a better integration of populations traditions in protected areas wildlife management. Data were collected by market surveys and interviews. Results showed the importance of large carnivore (especially lion) trade for different classes of the population, from rural areas around protected areas to biggest cities. Magic uses are more important than medicinal uses. The analysis of the marketing network showed that products come mainly from different neighboring countries. The relative importance of this trade confirms the threat that represents tradition for lion and other large carnivores' conservation in Benin. Nevertheless, the place of large carnivores in Benin' Culture can also be positive for conservation. |
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