The Lion and the Jackal: Community perspectives on carnivores and human-carnivore coexistence along the periphery of one of the largest fenced protected areas in northern Namibia
Randomized trial assesses human-carnivore coexistence in northern Namibia, indicating significant challenges in conservation efforts.
Key Points
This study aims to evaluate human-carnivore coexistence and the impacts of carnivore predation on livestock along the northern edge of Etosha National Park.
Analyzed long-term trends in livestock depredation from 2007 to 2023.
Conducted questionnaire surveys with 150 households to assess perceptions and economic impacts.
Evaluated ecological and anthropogenic influences on depredation risk in relation to CBNRM benefits.
Spotted hyena, black-backed jackal, and lions were involved in the killing of 5087 livestock, with affected households experiencing an average financial loss of US$1100.
Notifications from CBNRM indicated a low average benefit of US$2.9 per individual, suggesting an economic disparity.
Depredation risk was influenced by proximity to the ENP fence and ecological factors, alongside community perceptions of carnivores.