Conservation challenge: Human-carnivore conflict in Chebera Churchura National Park, Ethiopia

An investigation on human-carnivore conflict was carried out between 2011 and 2012 around Chebera Churchura National Park. Totally 312 household samples were identified for interviews. Structured interviews were carried out in seven purposefully selected villages. Eight problematic species such as lion, leopard, jackal, wild dog, hyena, caracal, serval and anubis baboon were identified and considered as the most hazardous animals in the area. Domestic animal loss was the major problems encountered resulting in conflict between human and carnivore. Farmers reported significant problems with wild carnivores. A total of 997 individual losses of domestic animals were reported in the last three years. Predation peaked was observed during the wet season (56.3%). Most respondents reported use of guarding as very effective method in the villages. The level of conflict was increased in the recent years. The close proximity of the villages to the Park and time of a season influenced predation intensity. A combined strategy aimed at both improving husbandry techniques and education will reduce conflicts and contribute to improve conservation of these predators and reduce the loss of livestock in the area