Human-wildlife conflict in Zegie Peninsula (Ethiopia) with emphasis on grivet monkey (Cercopithecus aethiops aethiops)

Abstract

Data on conflict between human and wildlife in Zegie Peninsula were collected during July, 2008-April, 2009. Face-to-face questionnaire, census of wild animals, direct estimation of crop damage by wild animals and faecal analysis of grivet monkeys were the components of the study. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics; Chi-square test and one-way ANOVA. Crop loss in 2007/2008 harvest year was 26.78%. Damage estimation of ripened crops in the field by wild animals was equivalent to about 13,000 Ethiopian Birr per day in the study area (1150 ha). There was no significant difference in damage among crops (F = 0.147, df = 3, 16, P > 0.05) and damage in different habitats (F =1.41, df = 4, 15, P > 0.05). Among the faecal samples of grivet monkeys, 34.28% had the seeds of citrus fruits. Wild animals were killed in response to the damage they cause to crops or for consumption. Trees were cut down and sold to support livelihood. The estimated population of grivets in the study area was 1157, which is about one grivet monkey/ha. Grivet population was not significantly different between the wet and dry seasons (x²= 0.44, df =1, P > 0.05). But there was a significant difference in the population of grivets among habitats (F = 5.36, df = 4, 15, P < 0.05). The estimated population of squirrels, duikers and hares in the study area was 428, 37 and 30, respectively. Squirrel population varied significantly between wet and dry seasons (x² = 5.6, df =1, P < 0.05).  Grivet monkey, squirrel, porcupine and bushpig were the four major pest mammals in the area. Leopard, duiker and hares were minor pests.