Field Assessment of Human-Wildlife Interactions within Cameroon’s Ebo Forest Reserve

Abstract

The Ebo Forest Reserve (EFR) in the Littoral Region of Cameroon represents one of the most significant remaining blocks of intact rainforest in the Gulf of Guinea, harboring critically endangered species and supporting the livelihoods of numerous surrounding communities. However, increasing proximity between human activities and wildlife habitats has led to escalating Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC). Which is becoming a serious threat to both wildlife conservation and human well-being. This study assesses the nature and drivers of human-wildlife interactions within the reserve, focusing on the dual challenges of crop raiding by forest fauna and the anthropogenic pressures of hunting and habitat encroachment. Using a field surveys through reconnaissance (recces) walk, the research identifies the primary species involved in conflict. Results findings indicates that crop raiding was the primary form of human-wildlife interactions in the region. Among different crop varieties affected, cassava, maize, and cocoa suffered the most significant damage. Among the identified species responsible for crop raiding, antelopes, hedgehogs, and monkeys were the most frequent offenders, targeting crops. Farmers employed different strategies to overcome crop destruction with trapping and the use of chemical deterrents being the most prevalent methods used by the local population. Findings shows that resource competition and habitat fragmentation are the leading catalysts for negative encounters. As such, the results provide a critical evidence base for developing integrated management plans that balance biodiversity conservation with the socio-economic security of local populations, ensuring the long-term viability of the Ebo Forest ecosystem.