Human–carnivore conflict around Pendjari Biosphere Reserve, northern Benin

Abstract

Close proximity between humans and large predators results in high levels of conflict. We investigated the extent of, and factors leading to, this conflict through focal group and individual interviews in all villages around Pendjari Biosphere Reserve, northern Benin. Livestock losses from 2000 to 2007 (n5752) were reported to be mainly caused by spotted hyaena Crocuta crocuta (53.6%), baboonPapioanubis(24.8%),andlionPantheraleo(18.0%). These predators mainly predated sheep and goats (52.1%) and pigs (42.3%), with lions being the main predators of cattle(78.9%).Lionandhyaenadietsweremorediversethan that of baboons, which killed only small stock. The level of conflict increased during 2000–2007. Predation rate differs between predator species and is significantly influenced by month,rainfallofthemonthbeforethepredationevent,and lengthofthedryperiodinayear.Thegeographicalposition of the village, the distance of the village to the Park and the numberofherbivoreslegallykilledeveryhuntingseasonalso influenced predation intensity. Our findings suggest that improvement of husbandry techniques and education will reduceconflictsandcontributetoimprovedconservationof these threatened predators.