Human casualties from human-elephant conflict around Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Nepal

We studied human casualties in the buffer zone of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve to gain insights into the factors responsible for elephant attacks on humans. We interviewed victims' families for those that got killed and victims that got injured, over the past six years. Human behaviour was responsible for more casualties than elephant behaviour. Casualties were mainly caused by people's negligence of threats and confrontation of elephants. Providing awareness about elephant ecology and training people about deterrents and methods for avoiding conflict, along with regular patrolling and maintenance of electric fences is required to ensure the safety of both people and elephants.