Community preferences for mitigation strategies in human-wildlife conflict: A comparative study of human-elephant and human-leopard conflicts in Tamil Nadu

Abstract

Human-wildlife conflict (HWC) represents a critical challenge to both biodiversity conservation and sustainable rural development, particularly in regions adjacent to wildlife habitats. This study investigates community-level preferences for conflict mitigation strategies in zones experiencing Human-Elephant Conflict (HEC) and Human-Leopard Conflict (HLC). Using structured surveys conducted with 30 respondents (15 each from HEC and HLC areas), 15 mitigation strategies were evaluated across five priority levels. A Chi-square test of homogeneity was employed to assess statistical differences in preferences between the two conflict zones. Results reveal significant variation in strategy prioritization: physical barriers (e.g., trenches, fences, water holes) were highly favored in HEC areas, while technological interventions (e.g., patrolling, early warning systems, smart surveillance) were prioritized in HLC zones. Traditional deterrents and conflict response teams were moderately accepted across both conflict types but lacked statistical significance. Education and cultivation-based measures were not much prioritized, reflecting skepticism toward long-term, non-tangible solutions. The findings underscore the need for tailored, context-specific mitigation frameworks that integrate structural, technological, and traditional approaches in alignment with community priorities. This research contributes to the development of inclusive, adaptable, and sustainable strategies for mitigating human-wildlife conflict