Human–Carnivore Conflict in and Around Kafta Sheraro National Park, Northern Ethiopia: Determinants, Costs, and Conservation Implications

Abstract

Resolving human–carnivore conflict is crucial for the sustainable coexistence of humans and wildlife. Achieving this, however, requires a comprehensive understanding of the causes and complexities associated with the conflict. This study aimed to assess the nature, underlying causes and costs of human–carnivore conflict, as well as the conservation challenges and potential mitigation measures in and around Kafta Sheraro National Park, Ethiopia. In 2020, we conducted 210 questionnaire interviews with villagers surrounding the park. The surveys gathered data on respondents’ reports of carnivore depredation, the extent and patterns of human–carnivore conflicts, incidents of carnivore killings, the economic impact of livestock depredation, threats to wildlife conservation, potential traditional mitigation measures for human–carnivore conflicts, and their socio-economic characteristics. A logistic regression model was used to identify factors contributing to livestock depredation. Seventy-one percent of respondents reported conflict with carnivore species in the 5 years preceding the study. A total of 1390 heads of stock were reported killed by carnivore species, resulting in an economic loss of US$ 170,741. Spotted hyenas (Crocuta crocuta) were responsible for most livestock depredation (37.8%), followed by leopards (Panthera pardus) (29.5%), caracals (Felis caracal) (8%), and common jackals (Canis aureus) (7.3%). Spotted hyenas killed all types of livestock [cattle (Bos taurus), goat (Capra hircus), sheep (Ovis aries), and donkey (Equus asinus)] across all the studied villages, while leopards, caracals, and jackals primarily targeted goats and sheep. Our findings indicated that most livestock depredations occurred at night and during the dry season. Although villagers employed several mitigation measures to prevent carnivore attacks, vigilance and bush fences were reported as the most effective methods. The study also revealed that agricultural land expansion and human settlements are major threats to wildlife conservation. Approximately 75% of surveyed households admitted to retaliatory killings of carnivore species in direct response to livestock losses. The study suggests that effective conflict mitigation and community conservation education should incorporate strategies to promote sustainable wildlife conservation and rural development.