Economic loss to chickens’ farmers caused by invasive Indian house crow (Corvus splendens) predation in Dodoma, Tanzania

Abstract

Corvus splendens, also known as the Indian house crow (IHC), is an invasive bird species introduced to Zanzibar from India. It has  become widespread throughout the Tanzania regions, particularly in Dodoma Urban. However, there has been limited research on the  broader effects of predation on chickens.In Dodoma, Tanzania, Indian house crows (Corvus splendens) are known to prey on chicks,  causing significant financial hardship for poultry owners. This study aimed to investigate the monetary losses incurred due to crow  predation across various chicken age groups and seasonal variations. A semi-structured qualitative questionnaire survey was conducted  to gather information from 403 farmers in the wards of Makulu, Makole, and Ndachi, with Makulu and Makole identified as the urban and  peri-urban areas of the wards, respectively. The collected data were then analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis statistical tests and a  Generalized Linear Model.Farmers reported higher predation rates by Indian house crows on chicks and eggs compared to other age  groups of chickens. Chicks and eggs were found to be more vulnerable and less capable of defending themselves against predation,  resulting in a substantial economic loss of 27,739.64 Tsh (1.21 USD) per farmer per year. Economic losses were further analyzed across  different seasons, revealing the months of April to August experienced the highest predation rates per year per farmer compared to  other seasons (P<0.005). In conclusion, highlighting potential ramifications for poultry management and conservation efforts in Dodoma  and analogous regions would offer readers crucial insights. This study emphasizes the adverse effects of Indian house crow predation on chicken populations, resulting in substantial economic losses for poultry farmers in Dodoma. An in-depth understanding of crow  predation dynamics can inform the formulation of strategies to safeguard poultry and mitigate economic losses in the region.