Abstract:
Despite the popularity of chill method in mitigating human-elephant conflict (HEC) in crops fields of
areas adjacent or within unfenced protected areas ecosystem in Africa countries, there are some challenges
facing application of the method resulting to food insecurity. The study aimed at examining limitation of chill
method in mitigating HEC using Western Serengeti ecosystem in Tanzania as a case study. Data were collected
by using Survey and Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) methods. Collected data were analysed by using
statistical package for social scientists (SPSS) software. The study revealed that human elephant conflicts were
a big problem in two selected villages (namely Nyamburi and Bonchugu) for about 97%. In trying to solve the
problem different mitigation measures were used by the local people to prevent elephants
(Loxodontaafricanaafricana) from crops fields whereas chill method despite of its challenges seems to be
effectives for about 83%. Major challenges which limit/hinder chill method in mitigating human elephant
conflicts includes pepper types, availability and their effectiveness in producing chocking smell; weather
conditions; and changing behaviour of elephants (Loxodontaafricanaafricana).
