International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Raniya Noushad, Aparna Radhakrishnan and Sandra Manoj

abstract
This research investigates human-wildlife coexistence from the perspective of farmers living in the forest fringes of Wayanad, Kerala. By surveying 120 households across four panchayats in Wayanad, the study quantifies direct and indirect impacts of wildlife interactions, including crop loss, livestock depredation, and security concerns, while also analysing farmers’ awareness of management policies and compensation schemes. Results show frequent crop damage by elephants, wild boars, and monkeys, with paddy, coconut, and arecanut identified as the most economically vulnerable crops. Although most farmers were aware of government policies for conflict mitigation, their understanding of programme details was uneven, and compensation delivery was perceived as inadequate. Farmers employ multiple strategies such as fencing, scaring, and vigilant guarding to manage interactions with wildlife. The findings highlight the complex, multidimensional nature of human-wildlife coexistence and emphasise the need for participatory, integrated approaches combining formal policy mechanisms and local practical measures for sustainable conflict management.