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.

Lamichhane, B. R., Persoon, G. A., Leirs, H., Poudel, S., Subedi, N., Pokheral, C. P., Bhattarai, S., Thapaliya, B. P., & de Iongh, H. H. (2018). Spatio-temporal patterns of attacks on human and economic losses from wildlife in Chitwan National Park, Nepal. Plos One, 13(4), e0195373. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0195373