What Is Human-Wildlife Conflict?

Human-wildlife conflict occurs when encounters between humans and wild animals lead to negative outcomes, such as loss of property, crop damage, injuries, or even fatalities. These conflicts also result in the loss of wildlife, either through retaliatory killings or accidental deaths, and threaten the survival of many species16.

The Leading Cause: Habitat Destruction

The most significant driver behind the increasing frequency of human-wildlife conflicts is habitat destruction. As forests and natural habitats are cleared or fragmented for agriculture, urban development, infrastructure, and resource extraction, wild animals lose their homes and sources of food156. This forces them to venture into human settlements in search of sustenance, leading to more frequent and sometimes dangerous encounters.

How Habitat Destruction Leads to Conflict

• Encroachment: Expanding human settlements and farming activities encroach upon wildlife habitats, reducing the space available for animals15.

• Fragmentation: Roads, railways, and other infrastructure break up continuous habitats, isolating animal populations and disrupting their natural movement patterns5.

• Loss of Food and Water: With their natural resources depleted, animals like elephants, tigers, leopards, and wild boars are compelled to raid crops, livestock, or garbage near villages and towns16.

• Increased Human Presence: More people living and working near forests increases the likelihood of encounters with wildlife15.

Real-World Impact

In India, government data has recorded thousands of wild animal attacks and incidents of crop loss due to wildlife raids in recent years1. Elephants, tigers, leopards, and wild boars are among the species most frequently involved in these conflicts. The destruction of forests and natural corridors has been directly linked to these incidents, as animals are pushed out of their shrinking habitats6.

Other Contributing Factors

While habitat destruction is the primary cause, other factors can exacerbate human-wildlife conflict:

• Rapid human population growth increases pressure on land and resources, bringing people and wildlife into closer contact25.

• Changes in agricultural practices and waste disposal near forests can attract wildlife to human areas1.

• Climate change and natural disasters can further reduce available habitats and food sources, increasing the likelihood of conflict56.

Solutions and the Way Forward

Addressing human-wildlife conflict requires a multifaceted approach:

• Habitat Restoration: Protecting and restoring natural habitats reduces the pressure on wildlife to enter human areas.

• Wildlife Corridors: Creating and maintaining corridors allows animals to move safely between habitat patches without entering villages or farms.

• Community Engagement: Educating and involving local communities in wildlife management helps reduce conflict and promote coexistence.

• Policy and Planning: Sustainable development that considers the needs of both people and wildlife is essential for long-term solutions16.

Conclusion: The Main Cause of Human-Wildlife Conflict

The most common reason for rising human-wildlife conflicts is habitat destruction. As natural habitats are lost or fragmented, wild animals are forced into closer contact with humans, leading to increased incidents and negative outcomes for both sides. Addressing this challenge is crucial for the future of wildlife conservation and sustainable human development.

Correct answer:
(1) Habitat destruction