Abstract
Striped hyena is an omnivores scavenger, which plays most important role in clearing off carrion. Most studies of this species are only limited to the Africa or the Indian subcontinent. The main aim of this study was to find out the distribution of the hyena, community perception and human-hyena conflict as a pilot study. Preliminary survey was done to select the sites for research based on field visit. Opportunistic survey was done to assess the distribution of the species while perception and human-hyena conflict were assessed using questionnaire survey and focus group discussion. Social data were analyzed by descriptive statistical tool like percentage, pie chart and bar diagram. Pearson Chi-square test was used for perception analysis. Distribution map was prepared by Land Use and Land Cover map and analyzed in ArcGIS 10.2.1. The household (n=105) were selected on a purposive basis. The species was found to be distributed more in grassland of the study area. People were found to be positive,(P< 0.05) towards hyena conservation, understanding the importance of the species along with the legal provision as „Protected‟ animal. Livestock depredation was found to be the main problem caused by hyena. Misconception and lack of awareness among local people were found to be major threats to hyena Intensive study needs to be done on the species to explore more information regarding its status, ecology and behavior. Conservation education and awareness programs need to be launched in the study area.
Presenters
Bibek PoudelForest Officer, Department of Forests, Division Forest Office, Kathmandu, Bagmati, Nepal
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
STRIPED HYENA, DISTRIBUTION, CONSERVATION, PERCEPTION
