Trends and local perceptions of human-crocodile conflicts in Kariba town, northern Zimbabwe

Abstract

This study assessed the nature and local people’s perceptions of human-crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) conflicts (HCCs) for the period 2007 to 2016 in Kariba town, northern Zimbabwe. A mixed-method approach was used with 150 local fish folks interviewed between July and October 2017 through face-to-face interviews and secondary data on HCC were retrieved from the wildlife authority’s records. In contrast to the general perception from fish folks that there was an increase in HCC, secondary data analysis showed no significant trends of crocodile attacks on people for the period under study. HCC was mainly driven by fishing activities which exposed people to crocodile attacks. The study concludes that despite the recorded non-increasing trend in HCCs, HCC is a major conservation issue in Kariba town given enhanced human–wildlife interactions due to the economic needs for local livelihoods. Community educational programs are recommended as a way to manage HCC and close gaps between the conventional scientific and local knowledge.