Assessment of Human-Wildlife Conflict in and Around Weyngus Forest, Dega Damot Woreda, West Gojjam Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC) is threatening the survival of wildlife and human livelihoods through worldwide; particularly in developing countries where their livelihood is depend mostly on agricultural activities. Although the problem is prominent, knowledge of looking for solution is scarce all over the world including Ethiopia. Hence the situation needs for research to contribute to mitigation measures in the study area. Therefore, this study was aimed to find the key crop raider and livestock depredation animals, to set up the nature and extent of conflicts experienced with wildlife, and to document techniques local people use to decrease HWCs. Data were collected through a household questionnaire survey, focus group discussion and direct field observation and analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square test. Habitat distraction 46(37.1%) increasing of wildlife population 38 (30.6%) and resource competition 27 (21.8%) were the major causes of conflict identified in the area. A total of nine (9) wildlife species were identified as causing severe crop and livestock damage. Vervet monkey (Chlorocebus aetiops) and Porcupine (Hystrix cristata) were reported as a top crop raider while, Bat-eared fox (Otocyon megalotis) and Common jackal (Canis aureus aureus) were suggested as principal livestock predator. The most challenging crops were potato and barley, while sheep and goat were the foremost problematic livestock in the area. Guarding day & night, keeping dogs, fencing, chasing, scarecrow, and limiting the animals in the house were the most practiced methods used to minimize the crop and livestock damage in the area. 67 (54.0%) and 80 (64.5%) of respondents had negative attitude, whereas 43 (34.7%) and 39 (31.5%) were have positive attitude towards crop raiders and livestock predators respectively. In conclusion, the study area demands for sustainable and culturally acceptable conservation solutions to mitigate human wildlife conflict.