Human-wildlife conflict
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Human-wildlife conflict refers to the negative interactions between humans and wild animals, with undesirable consequences for both people and their resources, as well as wildlife and their habitats. This conflict is becoming more frequent, serious, and widespread due to factors such as human population growth, agricultural expansion, infrastructure development, climate change, and other drivers of habitat loss.
The long-term survival of some of the world’s most iconic species, including elephants and tigers, is at risk from this significant and escalating threat¹. Human-wildlife conflict can lead to loss of property, livelihoods, and even life. Defensive and retaliatory killing may eventually drive these species to extinction.
Human-elephant conflict
Human-elephant conflict (HEC) refers to the problem that arises when elephants and humans live in close proximity and their interests clash. It is particularly prevalent in countries such as India, Sri Lanka, and parts of Africa.
The conflict arises primarily due to competition for resources such as food and water, and also due to the destruction of habitat caused by human activities.
One of the main drivers of human-elephant conflict is the encroachment of human settlements into elephant habitats. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as population growth or the expansion of agricultural land. As humans move into elephant territory, they bring with them tempting food sources, such as crops and fruits, that can attract elephants.
Another contributing factor to human-elephant conflict is the loss of natural habitat due to deforestation and development. As elephants lose their natural habitats, they are forced to seek out alternative food sources and water sources, often bringing them into closer proximity to humans.
Current conflict management approaches focus on prevention through exclusion and on-site deterrents, but they fail to address the underlying drivers of conflict related to cultural values, resource use decisions, and habitat fragmentation.[1]