Influence of the Human-Wildlife Interaction in Protected Areas: A Case Study of the Old Oyo National Park, Nigeria

Abstract

The human - wildlife relationship within the boundary zone of protected biodiversity conserved areas has led to different forms of conflicts. The study undertaken in the Old Oyo National park (Nigeria) support zone areas was aimed at evaluating and determining the level of damage, and the economics loss to farmers due to a human-wildlife conflict. The research identified the locals’ attitude to wildlife conservation management and proposed a mitigating strategy for human interaction with the wildlife. Data were collected by the combination of social survey methods which involved participatory techniques such as on-site field observation, a household survey questionnaire (n =120), a key informant interview, and focus group discussions. Data were presented using a descriptive statistical test to extract information on the socio-economic conditions, including major conflicting animals, crop loss, main season of conflict, and also about the local techniques to mitigate the Human-Wildlife Conflict, the perceptions and attitudes of local people towards the effectiveness of mitigation approaches. Results revealed that the proximity of farmland to the national park is a factor determining the damage caused by the wild animals. It has also revealed that local peoples’ attitude to wildlife conservation was positive. Nevertheless, as far as farm produce was destroyed, more than 50% of the respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the park management efforts and its conflict resolution strategy. We have suggested that the meaningful involvement of the local community in the conservation administration from bottom to top levels, including an awareness campaign program will contribute towards a reduction of conflicts. The outcomes of the study will assist in changing the perceptions towards conservation in relation to the human development in the communities surrounding the protected areas. Keywords: buffer zone, crop destruction, human-wildlife interaction, habitat, management