Human-sloth bear conflict in Nepal – case study from an unprotected Churia forest

Abstract

AbstractHuman-sloth bear conflict is common throughout most areas where sloth bears coexist with humans. Though similar reports are available from different parts of Nepal’s lowlands, comprehensive studies that can inform human safety and conflict mitigation are highly lacking. We used data from questionnaire-based interviews with conflict-affected people and witnesses to provide detailed information about human-sloth bear conflict (1990-2021) in the Trijuga forest, an important but unprotected area for sloth bear conservation in Nepal. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and regression analysis. For the time period, 66 conflict incidents involving 69 human individuals were recorded, with an annual average of 2.06 (SD = 1.48) incidents and 1.80 (SD = 1.32) attacks. The attacks injured 59 people with a fatality rate of 8.47% among those that were injured. Conflicts primarily impacted people from minority ethnic groups and mostly affected men. Victims were generally of working age group (25 – 55), engaged in farming, and frequented the forest regularly for resources. Conflicts typically occurred between 0900 and 1500, inside forests, and in places of poor land cover visibility. Poor visibility was also a significant positive determinant of bear attacks on humans. Despite statistically insignificant variation in conflicts across seasons or months, they tended to be more prevalent during the monsoon and postmonsoon seasons. Victims of bear attacks frequently had serious injuries, especially to the head and neck area of the body. Serious injuries were more likely to occur to lone individuals than to people who were in groups of two or more. Taking into account sloth bear ecology and the socio-demographic profile of the conflict victims, we discuss measures that can promote coexistence between humans and sloth bears in light of the findings.