The Limit of Chill Method as a Non-Lethal Deterrent in Mitigating Human Elephant Conflict in Serengeti Ecosystem

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).