Positive local perception of wildlife leading to new habitats for animals in Coorg.

Human-elephant conflict is a major issue in the Coorg region of Karnataka, India. This conflict arises due to the increasing overlap between the habitats of elephants and humans, as the human population grows and expands into areas previously inhabited by elephants. Crop raiding by elephants and damage to homes and infrastructure are common conflicts that occur. To mitigate these conflicts, various strategies have been implemented, such as building elephant-proof fences, creating elephant corridors, and providing compensation to affected farmers. Coexisting with elephants and protecting both human and elephant populations is crucial. In recent years, a unique behavioral change has been observed in the region. The locals have lived with these animals for generations and have adapted to coexist with them without causing harm. However, with infrastructure developments and a reduction in natural forest cover, the elephants have adapted to newer challenges. As the conflict intensity is not high and people do not pose a threat to these animals, they are breeding and living in coffee plantations. The large coffee plantation owned by the Tata group has become a haven for these elephants, providing an abundance of prey for carnivores like tigers.

The Chennangi section of South Coorg, a part of Anechowkur range of Nagarahole Tiger Reserve, has high conflict and elephant movement. Crop damage is common, whether in areca nut or coffee plantations. Solar fences are not effective as the elephants have found ways to dodge or damage them. These crops are the major source of livelihood for the local people, creating stress and hatred towards these animals. This often results in man-animal conflict, which the forest department staff handles. However, they are under-equipped to track and scare away these animals, and proper infrastructure and shelter are lacking in some areas.

During the crop season, there is high elephant activity as there is an ample supply of food and continuous water. Bamboo forest patches in Nagarahole, which used to exist, are no longer present, and the elephants have adapted to coffee plantations. Tigers have also started to roam inside these plantations. Recently, one injured tiger was found in a water body, and it was rescued by the forest department. Unfortunately, it succumbed to internal injuries on the way to Mysore Zoo. The degradation of continuous forest patches has led these animals to use human-centric landscapes for movement, often leading to fear and conflict. A rapid response team is present to handle conflicts and emergencies, including local trackers from the Tata estate.

The major challenge is to maintain a positive perception of people and manage both animals and people during conflict. Proper compensation for crop damage may reduce conflict, but it may not be sustainable in the long run. Alternative livelihood options are limited, as most people depend on agriculture only. The adaptations of these animals into these newer habitats are going to create more conflicts and problems in the future. Finding a sustainable solution to coexist with elephants and minimize conflict is crucial.

Rahul M Suresh

MSc in Wildlife Conservation Action

Rahul has completed his MSc in Wildlife Conservation Action from the Institute of Environment Education and Research, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) in Pune. During his MSc, he worked on Smooth Coated Otters at Ganapathi Lake, Sagara town, and completed his academic internship at ANCF under the guidance of Surendra Varma for the Gaj-Sanchar Tripura project. Currently, he is working as a Programme Associate at Dakshin Foundation on the long-term monitoring of olive ridleys in Odisha. Additionally, at Adavi Alert Foundation, he will be serving as a project mentor and board member.