VALUES OF WILDLIFE:

Introduction: A ‘wild animal’ means any non-domesticated animal found wild in nature. It includes
both vertebrates and invertebrates. In India, the idea of protection and preservation of wildlife has
been an integral part of religion and culture since ancient times. However, the condition of our
wildlife deteriorated rapidly during the Moghul and British rule. We need to protect and manage our
remaining wildlife due to the following values:
1. Ecological value: All living things on Earth have evolved together and are inextricably
interlinked forming ecosystems. Destruction of wildlife may disrupt ecological balance
resulting in severe consequences. Thus, protection of every animal species is of great
importance to the quality of life and to the survival of humankind itself. By rendering the
planet uninhabitable for animals, we will not be able to avoid extinction of ourselves.
2. Commercial value: Wildlife forms an important natural resource. Unlike coal or petroleum
which is nonrenewable, wildlife is a renewable resource. With proper care and management, it
can yield good dividends and even foreign exchange. The commercial value of wildlife can be
enumerated in the following examples, world’s marine fisheries with an annual output of
about 100 million tons worth billions of rupees, freshwater fisheries provide large amount of
food for people, wildlife of dry land contributes to the food of the so-called primitive people
of the world, fur-bearing animals support fur industry, trade in life as well as dead animals
supports thousands of people and also earns foreign exchange, wildlife of a country is an
important component of tourism industry, etc.
3. Scientific value: Scientific studies of many of the wildlife species are of direct value to
humans. For example, sea urchins have helped greatly in the understanding of human
embryology. A desert toad has helped in early determination of pregnancy. Rhesus monkeys
have contributed to the present knowledge of human blood groups. Antlers of deer help in
determining the degree of radioactive contamination of natural environments. Armadillo
contributed to the development of vaccine for leprosy. All clinical trials of new drugs for
human use are first done on animals. We do not know when some obscure wild animal species
may be shot to prominence by providing a clue to human health and survival.
4. Game value: Wildlife has its worth as game also. All over the world, millions of people hunt
or fish for recreation spending billions of dollars on these sports.
5. Aesthetic value: There is a great worldwide aesthetic value of wildlife because of their sheer
beauty and appeal to the human spirit. A world without melodious birds, graceful beasts and
rapturous forests would be a poorer place for humans to live in. Without wild animals, a
countryside looks dead, static, monotonous and like a picture postcard. People feel pleasure,
satisfaction and happiness in the presence of wildlife.
6. Ethical value: Generally, people think that they have no right to destroy wild animals, rather
they feel an obligation for the conservation of nature and protection of wildlife. In fact, all
religions preach a healthy respect and reverence for life and consider it wrong to take the life
of an animal.

==========================================
General issues and strategies related to wildlife:
Issues: The importance of wildlife conservation extends beyond the ethical obligation to protect other
species. It is compulsory to sustain ecosystems that provide vital services climate regulation, water
purification and pollination. However, there are a number of issues related to effective wildlife
conservation and management. The important ones are as follows:
1. Habitat destruction and fragmentation: One of the most pressing issues in wildlife
conservation is the loss and fragmentation of natural habitats. Driven by human activities such
as urbanization, agriculture, deforestation, and infrastructure development. This process not
only reduces the available space for wildlife but also isolates populations, making them more
vulnerable to extinction.
2. Climate change: Climate change is altering ecosystems at an unprecedented rate. It affects
wildlife through changes in temperature, precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events.
These changes can shift habitat ranges, disrupt breeding and migration patterns, and alter food
availability, posing a significant threat to many species.
 3. Illegal wildlife trade and poaching: The illegal trade in wildlife products, including ivory,
rhino horn, and exotic pets, is a lucrative business that poses a significant threat to various
species. Poaching not only depletes animal populations but also disrupts ecological balance
and can drive species to the brink of extinction.
4. Invasive species: The introduction of non-native species to new environments, whether
accidental or intentional, can have devastating effects on local ecosystems. Invasive species
often out-compete native species for resources, leading to a decline in biodiversity.
5. Pollution: Pollution in its many forms — chemical, noise, light, and plastic — adversely
affects wildlife. It can lead to habitat degradation, directly harm animals, and disrupt
ecological processes. For instance, plastic pollution in oceans has become a significant threat
to marine life.
6. Human-wildlife conflict: As human populations expand into previously wild areas, conflicts
between humans and wildlife increase. These conflicts can arise from wildlife predation on
livestock, damage to crops, and threats to human safety. Such conflicts often result in
retaliatory measures against wildlife, further exacerbating the conservation challenge.
7. Limited funding and resources: Wildlife conservation efforts are often hampered by a lack
of adequate funding and resources. This limitation affects research, enforcement of
conservation laws, habitat protection, and the implementation of effective management
strategies.
8. Lack of public awareness and involvement: A general lack of awareness and understanding
of wildlife conservation issues among the public can lead to apathy and a lack of support for
conservation initiatives. Engaging and educating the public is crucial for garnering support
and involvement in conservation efforts. These challenges are interconnected and often
exacerbate one another, making wildlife conservation a complex and multifaceted endeavor.

Addressing these issues requires comprehensive, collaborative approaches that involve

governments, non-governmental organizations, communities, and individuals working together
towards sustainable solutions.

Strategies for effective wildlife conservation and management: Wildlife conservation and
management are paramount in ensuring the survival of diverse species and the protection of
ecosystems. Following are the important ones:
1. Habitat preservation and restoration: One of the fundamental strategies for wildlife
conservation is the preservation and restoration of habitats. Establishing protected areas,
national parks, and wildlife reserves is essential for safeguarding critical habitats.
Additionally, habitat restoration projects play a crucial role in rehabilitating degraded
ecosystems, providing essential habitats for wildlife. These efforts ensure that species have a
refuge to thrive and fulfill their ecological roles.
2. Climate resilience planning: As climate change poses a growing threat to wildlife,
developing strategies to enhance their resilience is imperative. Adaptive management
approaches are vital, allowing wildlife to adapt to changing climate conditions. This involves
creating climate-resilient habitats, facilitating species' movements, and conserving critical
migration routes. Simultaneously, supporting global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions is integral, as these actions indirectly mitigate climate impacts on wildlife.
3. Anti-poaching and law enforcement: Effectively combating illegal wildlife trade and
poaching is a cornerstone of wildlife conservation. Strengthening law enforcement efforts
through more rigorous penalties for offenders is crucial in deterring illegal activities. Public
awareness campaigns are also vital, as they educate communities about the consequences of
wildlife poaching and trade, reducing demand for illegal wildlife products. Robust
anti-poaching measures protect endangered species and help maintain ecological balance.
4. Invasive species management: Invasive species can wreak havoc on native ecosystems,
necessitating early detection and control measures. Implementing programs for swift
detection and response to invasive species prevents their establishment and spread.
Additionally, habitat restoration efforts that favor native species can diminish the competitive
advantage of invasive species. These measures promote biodiversity and ecosystem health.
 5. Pollution control: Pollution poses a pervasive threat to wildlife and their habitats. Effective
strategies involve enforcing pollution regulations and establishing standards for responsible
waste disposal. Public education initiatives are instrumental in raising awareness about the
detrimental effects of pollution on wildlife. By promoting sustainable practices and reducing
pollution, we can protect ecosystems and their inhabitants.
6. Human-wildlife conflict mitigation: Conflict between humans and wildlife is a growing
concern as human populations expand into wildlife habitats. Developing alternative livelihood
options for communities near these habitats reduces their dependency on wildlife- related
resources. Implementing conflict resolution strategies, such as fencing, livestock guarding
dogs, and compensation programs, fosters coexistence between humans and wildlife while
reducing retaliatory killings.
7. Sustainable resource use: Promoting sustainable practices in agriculture, forestry, and
fisheries is essential to minimize habitat destruction and facilitate coexistence with wildlife.
Sustainable resource management reduces the negative impacts of human activities on
ecosystems and helps maintain ecological balance.

The strategies for effective wildlife conservation and management outlined here are interconnected
and mutually reinforcing. Their implementation, supported by a collaborative and holistic approach, is
essential for preserving Earth's diverse ecosystems and the multitude of species that depend on them.
These efforts serve not only to protect wildlife but also to secure a sustainable future for our planet.

Case study 1: Human-elephant conflict in Karnataka

A study on human-elephant conflict, the mitigation methods employed and its impact on conflict
resolution was done by Karnataka Evaluation Authority (KEA). The period of study was from
2014-15 to 2018-19 in the five elephant habitat districts of Ramanagara, Mandya, Mysuru,
Chamarajanagar and Kodagu. The purpose of the study was mainly to evaluate the various measures
taken to reduce the human-elephant conflict (HEC) and to arrive at the most efficient measure with
cost effectiveness.

Introduction: India is one of the main habitats of Asian elephants in the world with an estimated
population of 29,964. Karnataka stand first among the states with an estimated population of 6094.
With the shrinking and fragmentation of elephant habitats coupled with various developmental
activities on the rise, the contact between human and elephants are increasing. The Human Elephant
conflicts is due to complex interactions between human and elephants resulting in damaging
consequences on both sides. Most of the elephant habitat states have been adopting several measures
to reduce this conflict over a period of time. Despite this, the intensity and degree of conflict has been
on the rise. Project Elephant was launched in 1992 in 13 states in the country including the state of
Karnataka. The main objectives of this project were to protect the elephants and their habitat and
corridors and to address the increasing Human - Elephant Conflict (HEC). About 32 Elephant
Reserves (ER) are declared in the country under the project with a total area of 65, 507.42 Sq. km. In
Karnataka, range of Brahmagiri – Nilligiris – Eastern Ghats is declared as the Elephant Reserve.
About 101 areas are dentified as Elephant Corridors in the country. There are about eight main
populations in Southern India and each are fragmented from others. Many of the corridors are under
threat due to change in landscape resulting in HEC.

Example: Case study on Mosaic pattern landscape and fragmented forest in Ramanagara district,
Channapatna Taluk. Ramanagara district has a forest area of 414.54 Sq. km mostly dry deciduous and
scrub type. In most of the areas, it is fragmented except the one adjoining Bannerghatta National Park
and Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary. This particular case study pertains to two villages, B V Halli and
Ammalidoddi in Channapatna Taluk under Channapatna range. In this area it is observed that there are
two patches of forest. Thenginakallu State Forest having an area 2579 hectares and Narikalgudda
State Forest with approximately 1500 ha. Villages B V halli and Ammalli Doddi are located between
these two patches of forests. In both the villages maximum of ten crop damage cases have been
sampled. Ammalli doddi is at a distance of about 1.5 - 2.0 km from forests boundary. B V Halli
village is located at a distance of 0.5 km from forest boundary. Crops grown are Ragi and Coconut,
Paddy, Maize, Banana, Mulberry and Mango. The affected farms are located at a distance of 0.5 -1.5
km from forest boundary. Boundaries are discontinuous and diffuse.

Problems
Crop raids are common feature throughout the year with peak season between May and September.
The crop raided area ranges from 0.3 – 2.0 acre in individual cases. The number of cases in BV halli
is on the rise compared to 2014-15. Department officials and the villagers have informed that the
movement of elephants is happening in the regular route. In the last few years, the landscape of the
area changed, and is now interspersed with agriculture and habitation. This was mainly due to
irrigation facilities and the farmers have gone for more commercial crops like Coconut and Mango.
Besides this, there will be some or the other crops throughout the year. The elephants though a small
herd continue to move in the same way as before following its regular route. With lush crops
throughout the year and availability of water, the elephants come down from during evening and night
and attack the crops and return to their habitats. In all seasons the elephant movement is regular in
these areas. Elephants generally come in search of forage and water.

Measures
Measures taken are mainly short term by way of EPT (elephant proof trench) and Solar fencing. EPT
is working to some extent. Solar fences have been damaged. In B V Halli, EPT has been constructed
in 2019-20. Solar fence constructed during 2014-15 of 1 km length at a cost of Rs. 2.57 lakhs is
rendered ineffective and abandoned also. Non-maintenance and lack of funds for maintenance has
been the reason. Growing mulberry has reduced the damage and generally not raided by elephants.
The farmers are interested in community solar fencing for their farms. Some famers are of the opinion
that the elephants should be confined to their natural habitats, while some say they need to be trans
located. Many times, farmers are not aware that they are also stake holders in HEC. Awareness has to
be created and they should involve the community at every stage. It is observed that a small
percentage of the population in the district repeatedly involved in crop raids and more or less the same
locations are mainly affected. This may be an indication that it is probably the migratory route of the
elephants. Before the change in the landscape with agriculture, the two fragmented patches were
probably connected with Gomal lands. The problems aggravated once the landscape changed to forest
patches interspersed with agriculture and habitation. Permanent measures such as restoring the
corridors will go a long way in minimizing the problem of conflict. Studies on the carrying capacity
and density of population and numbers will give an idea about the status of the habitat. As a
short-term measure, community fencing with solar could be an option. Especially with programs like
subsidies, farmers will also be interested to protect their farms and crops. Enrichment of the habitat
and providing water holes can be another option. Although alternate cropping is not preferred by
farmers to reduce the crop damages, it is observed that mulberry is a crop grown in these areas are not
generally raided. Similar crops which are not preferred by elephants for feeding may be planned with
the help of Agriculture Department.

Case study 2: Human-cheetah conflict

Introduction: Since 2003, there have been significant efforts made to address the needs and
requirements for the conservation of cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus). Cheetah numbers throughout their
range have declined due to the loss and fragmentation of habitat and a declining prey base. Large
numbers of cheetahs live outside protected areas and, therefore, come into conflict with humans for
predating on livestock. As landscapes continue to become more fragmented, causing continuous and
greater problems with HWC (human-wildlife conflict), we need a large scale, regional design to
mitigate and reduce this conflict.

Lessons learned: Over the last 10 years, considerable research has been conducted into
human–cheetah conflict and cheetah ecology outside of protected areas. This scientific research acts
as the foundation for a variety of conservation and education programs that integrate human needs
with cheetah management. For example, social studies show that how farmers perceive the damage
caused by predators has deeper and more complex roots than can be simply understood by the
monetary implications of depredation. Sustainable conservation must, therefore, develop conflict
resolution and prevention approaches that address these deeper attitudes, conflict patterns and
relationships toward predators. As a result, conflict mitigation techniques, which address just the
financial aspect of conflict such as compensation, are rarely successful in reducing conflict alone, and
attention has moved from short-term solutions to encouraging long-term coexistence. The important
difference between current conservation efforts and the efforts of conservation in the past is the focus
on the “bigger picture.” This bigger picture encourages community participation in finding solutions
to conflict, developing a global perspective, and encouraging a multispecies, integrated approach to
species conservation.

Conservation programs to address human-cheetah conflict: Education and economic development

have been highlighted as two of the most important tools to reduce HWC. These tools are being
applied in cheetah conservation through the training of future farmers and agricultural officers,
through the promotion of conservancies and livestock management techniques and by addressing
governmental policies.
1. Training: Cheetah conservation is interconnected to social, economic, and environmental
factors, concerning the range nations throughout Sub-Saharan Africa. General education, in
particular environmental knowledge, is often low across the region, and a higher level of
education is often associated with a greater tolerance to predators. There is, therefore, a need
to address this knowledge gap. To encourage the overall economic development and
environmental sustainability of livestock farming in Africa, livestock–wildlife management
training programs have been developed. Education programs are three tiered, addressing
children (the next generation of farmers), current farmers, and conservation and agricultural
professionals. Training courses cover all aspects of farm management, promoting tolerance of
predators through restored habitat, through livestock management that encourages non-lethal
predator control, and through healthy management of wild game populations. This integrated
approach, often including working on demonstration/model farms, has the potential to impact
not only the conservation of cheetah, but also all wildlife outside of formally protected areas,
while assisting rural development.
2. Livestock guarding dogs and Boma Design: Two of the traditional techniques that are
particularly effective at deterring cheetahs are the protection of livestock within a fenced area
known as a “boma” or “kraal” and the placement of a livestock-guarding dog (LGD) with
small-stock herds. Bomas are commonly used; however, they are often poorly constructed. As
a result, a “build a better boma” campaign has been implemented by Action for Cheetahs in
Kenya (ACK). ACK works in communities to build improved bomas and to provide
information about prevention of livestock loss to predators. Used in conjunction with an LGD
to protect livestock inside and outside of the boma, losses to predators can be drastically
reduced. LGDs become the guardians of the small-stock flock, and through loud barking and
attentiveness to the herds, predators avoid these protected flocks. Active LGD programs are
now in operation in Namibia, South Africa, Botswana, and Tanzania. Programs source or
breed guarding dogs to place on livestock farms. Farmers receive training and assistance with
the dog’s care and working life, and livestock losses and the dog’s behavior are closely
monitored.
3. Conservancies: Conservancies consist of adjacent farms that join together in broad units
where natural resources, including wildlife, are cooperatively managed with livestock, using
ecosystem-sensitive management plans. In general, conservancies are more likely to use
livestock management techniques, require less management of game animals, suffer less
impact from predation and, due to economies of scale, incur less costs. Namibia has the
largest number of conservancies within the cheetahs’ range, with 76 communal conservancies
and 20 commercial conservancies. Communal conservancies give communities a vested
interest in the welfare of local wildlife by giving them control over the economic benefits
from wildlife populations and natural resources if managed under conservancy guidelines.
Potentially, as a result of these advantages, conservancy members in South Africa and
Namibia had more positive attitudes to predators than non-conservancy members. In addition,
attitudes toward predators and conservancies were more positive where individuals perceived
they received benefits from them. Successful examples of local conservancies provide a basis
 for developing large scale, transboundary land management plans for the future, and the
conservancy program of Namibia has been spreading into other areas of Africa.
4. Eco-Label: The future of the cheetah requires enhancing the livelihoods of the human
communities that live alongside them. This includes developing alternative income sources
for these communities, including the use of wildlife friendly eco-labels. Eco-labeling can
enable producers who implement predator-friendly management practices to receive a
premium for the meat or other animal products they sell. Increasingly, today’s consumers are
looking for eco-labels to help guide their purchases, and are willing to pay extra for products
that are healthy and good for the environment. This purchase power can steer businesses into
adopting appropriate environmental standards. Predator-friendly meat, sourced from certified
predator-friendly farms, is available in the United States and 66% of consumers expressed a
willingness to pay above the normal premium for this environment friendly beef. Initiatives
have been trialed in both South Africa and Namibia; and “Cheetah Country,” a brand
developed and trade marked by CCF (Cheetah Conservation Fund), is helping to conserve
threatened wildlife while contributing to the economic vitality of rural communities.
5. Government policies: Often HWC is seen as a problem belonging to the environment
ministry, and little support is received from other government sectors. In recent years there
has been a shift to recognize the importance of land use planning and other governmental
sectors in reducing the impact of HWC. Various organizations are now developing tools to
promote cross-sectorial collaboration and prioritization of HWC in all sectors. Government
policies specifically on HWC reduction have been developed in some of the cheetahs range
states, including Botswana and Namibia. Working together with government and
non-governmental organizations, CCF and other cheetah organizations are helping educate
politicians internationally and in cheetah range countries on problems facing cheetah survival.
These include issues around illegal trade, HWC resolution through livestock and wildlife
management, and poverty alleviation programs.

Conclusion: Overall, lessons learned from cheetah research and conservation efforts have shown us
that humans can live with cheetahs and other predators through appropriate livestock and land-use
management strategies. The last 10 years showed an increase in collaboration and communication
across the cheetahs’ range with the implementation of the RWCP (Range wide conservation plan)
regional cheetah conservation strategies. The reach of education and coexistence programs has
widened as new NGOs have developed and the conservation capacity of governments has increased.
Guidance manuals and processes have been developed in many of the cheetahs’ range states, and
political and legal support through governmental policy is increasing. Similarly, a movement toward
community ownership of wildlife is developing through conservancies and community projects.
Through collaborative research and multidisciplinary approaches, both within protected areas and on
private lands, it can be possible to maintain large, intact ecosystems for the cheetah, which is the most
critical aspect of future conservation, both for cheetahs and for other large carnivores. However,
conflict with humans remains one of the biggest threats to cheetah populations, and efforts to change
people’s perceptions of predators remains an ongoing scenario of education and poverty eradication.
Within the framework of the world’s current environmental crisis, conservationist, government, and
businesses need to continue to work globally to develop solutions to enable humans and wildlife to
coexist.

======================================