An urban survey of dwellers, knowledge and disposition of bush meat and conservation in Ikorodu Metropolis, Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract

Wildmeat, a traditional source of protein for local rural homes in Africa has gained increased notoriety in respect to its implications for health when consumed by Man. consumption has in recent times become a source of concern for the global community particularly. As, a food resource often traded to urbanites, who can pay higher prices as a supplement to meals. Inspite of the extant studies on this activity, its urban dimensions remain poorly understood particularly in Nigeria. The paper assessed the local insights into why Ikorudu urbanites in Lagos, Nigeria continue to consume wild meat and their awareness of the implications of its consumption on their health. It was found using a questionnaire survey that more than 70% of residents had a low awareness of the negative implications of wildmeat consumption on their health. Furthermore, 45% of residents’ view wildmeat as healthier meat carrying less germs contrary to recent findings on its parasitic content. Results indicate that taste and cultural preferences are key reasons for sustained consumption (71%), and Grasscutter (Thryonomys swiderianus) continues to be the favoured edible wildmeat. This signals a pertinent need for increased local awareness of the zoonotic potentials of such meat through advocacy and educational campaigns. Continued blithe perspectives to Wildmeat issues may engender future disease outbreaks and eventually negatively impact on the ecological wellbeing of both Man and Bush animals.