Human-crocodile conflict (Nile crocodile: Crocodylus niloticus) in the Okavango Delta, Botswana

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Human-Crocodile Conflict (HCC) is becoming an increasingly social, and conservationproblem in most African countries, as many predator species are under threat due to conflictsituations where predation of livestock and humans is occurring. However, very little isknown about this multidimensional issue, which affects social, political, economic, culturaland biological aspects of life in regions throughout the world.The extent and severity of HCC in the Okavango Delta, Botswana, was investigatedthrough completing questionnaires with the aid of translators in 35 villages surrounding thisunique inland delta in the Ngamiland District of Botswana (N=482). Perceptions towardscrocodiles, the degree of utilization of river resources and traditional beliefs of the localpeople were also investigated. A high incidence of attacks was expected to occur wherehuman and livestock populations were high, with an increasing number of attacks overtime. Half of the people interviewed fear crocodiles and remarked that the brain ispoisonous when consumed. Most human attacks occurred when people were fishing,swimming or collecting water. Total human population was positively correlated with totalattacks on hwmms and total livestock attacks. The rate of attack on hw11ans and livestock isincreasing linearly with time, which is very concerning as people are dependant on fanning(livestock and crops) for about 50% of their income. A comparison of recorded attacks withthe DWNP (Department of Wildlife and National Parks) records, revealed that the numberof livestock attacks by crocodiles is minor compared to attacks by lion and leopard in theNgamiland District. However, combined with external influences, such as HIV/AIDS, theimpact of HCC will potentially greatly undermine people's livelihoods in the future.Mitigation measures combining both prevention and reactive techniques are provided forpolicy amendments and for communities for the long tenn resolution of HCC. The gradualphasing-out of monetary compensation (which is currently practiced in Botswana), togetherwith regulations restricting use of open access water of the Okavango Delta isrecommended. Policy instruments and various incentives (for communities) will aid inpolicy implementation and thus facilitate the future coexistence of man and crocodile in theOkavango Delta, Botswana.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University