Publications
Contribution of Buffer Zone Programs to Reduce Human-Wildlife Impacts: the Case of the Chitwan National Park, Nepal
Buffer zone programs around Chitwan National Park, Nepal, significantly reduce human-wildlife conflicts when funds are directed toward direct interventions for prevention and mitigation. A study found that only 13.7% of the buffer zone budget was allocated to such measures, yet this small investment inversely correlated with conflict levels. While residents generally held positive attitudes toward wildlife conservation and were aware of the programs, they expressed dissatisfaction with current practices. The research highlights the need for prioritizing direct intervention funds in buffer zones to effectively minimize human-wildlife impacts, offering a practical approach for similar conservation efforts worldwide.
Livestock depredation by leopards around Chitwan National Park, Nepal
A decade-long analysis of leopard livestock depredation around Chitwan National Park, Nepal, revealed that goats were disproportionately targeted (87.3% of cases), leading to significant economic losses and compensation payments totaling $24,621 over ten years. Despite a general decline in incidents from 2007–2016, no clear correlation was found between depredation and factors such as human or livestock population density, forest area, or environmental variables like rainfall or temperature. Depredation hotspots were identified through a conflict map, highlighting clustering in specific buffer zone areas. The study suggests that improved husbandry practices, livestock insurance schemes, and conservation education could mitigate conflicts and enhance public support for leopard conservation.
Spatio-temporal patterns of attacks on human and economic losses from wildlife in Chitwan National Park, Nepal
A study analyzing wildlife attacks on humans and economic losses in Chitwan National Park, Nepal (1998–2016) found that while rhinos and elephants caused the most human-wildlife conflicts during full moon periods, increasing wildlife populations did not correlate with rising incidents. Underprivileged ethnic communities were disproportionately affected, and carnivores like tigers and leopards accounted for over 90% of livestock depredation, primarily targeting medium-sized animals near forest edges. Decreases in livestock holdings and conflict mitigation measures (e.g., fences) helped control incidents, though challenges persisted. The research suggests strengthening fencing, predator-proof corrals, and community education to reduce conflicts effectively.
When, where and whom: assessing wildlife attacks on people in Chitwan National Park, Nepal
A significant portion of wildlife attacks on people in and around Chitwan National Park, Nepal, occurs outside the protected area, with 89% of incidents recorded between 2003 and 2013 happening beyond its boundaries. These attacks are unevenly distributed across seasons and months, predominantly occurring during the day, particularly in the morning. Rhinos (38%), tigers (21%), sloth bears (18%), elephants (9%), and wild boar (8%) were the primary perpetrators. Victims were mostly male, engaged in resource collection or farming, and lacked knowledge of animal behavior. The study used data from stakeholders, field observations, and surveys to identify key correlates such as site, season, time, activity, gender, and awareness. Mitigation strategies are recommended, including habitat management within the Park and raising public awareness about wildlife behavior, along with forming a participatory emergency rescue team for high-risk areas.
Invasive mikania in Chitwan National Park, Nepal: the threat to the greater one-horned rhinoceros Rhinoceros unicornis and factors driving the invasion
Invasive mikania (Mikania micrantha) poses a significant threat to the greater one-horned rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) in Chitwan National Park, Nepal. The study found that 44% of surveyed habitats are infested with mikania, with nearly 15% exhibiting high infestation levels (>50% coverage). Riverine forests, tall grasslands, and wetlands—habitats critical for rhinoceros survival—show the highest densities of this invasive plant. Anthropogenic activities, particularly annual grassland burning (25–50% of the park's area) and natural resource collection by local communities, are key drivers of mikania spread. The research highlights the urgent need for management strategies to control burning, mitigate spread, and promote sustainable resource use practices among local communities.
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