Analysis of rice farmers and avian conflicts in Patigi and Edu Local government areas, Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the avian–rice farmers’ conflicts resulting from avian invasion of rice farmlands and its implications on bird conservation in Patigi and Edu Local government areas of Kwara State, Nigeria. A total of 350 questionnaires were administered to registered rice farmers in the area. Data obtained were analysed both by descriptive and inferential statistics using chi-square and correlation. Most of the respondents were male (67.3%) within the age group 51-60 years (35.43%). Also, 35.71% had secondary education with 53.15% from household size >8. Most, 29.71% had 16-20 years of farming experience with an average farm size of 5.32±1.08 hectares. Twenty-one bird species were identified as pests of rice with Ploceus cucullatus, Quelea erythrops, Lonchura castaneothorax, Lonchura bicolor and Euplectes franciscanus being the major pests. Rice farmlands are majorly attacked at the grain formation stage, more prevalent in the dry season and occur during the daytime. The average crop loss during each planting season was 26-50% (severe category). Avian attack leads to reduced crop yield and poor grain quality with weighted mean values of 4.64±0.51 and 4.56±0.55 respectively. The rice farmers adopted six control measures with human scaring the most common and most effective. Rice farmers’ perception on birds varied with weighted mean values ranging from 3.48±1.79 to 4.60±0.83. Gender had no significant relationship (p>0.05) on the perceived effects of avian attacks on rice production. However, planting season had a significant relationship (p<0.05) with avian attack leading to reduced crop yield. Furthermore, the perception statement showed varying levels of significance to socio-demographic variables. Farm size, farming season, bird species, and life stages showed a significant (p<0.01) correlation with average crop loss. This study sheds light on the challenges faced by rice farmers in the study area due to avian attacks and the resulting retaliatory killing by farmers. Respondents recognized birds’ potential for income loss, farm abandonment, and discouragement and therefore resulted in control measures that are lethal in nature. Promoting integrated pest management, raising farmer awareness, encouraging crop diversification, adoption of modern and non-lethal measures and establishing sustainable compensation mechanisms are recommended.