Bassey, Peter Williams2026-03-252026-03-252024-12Bassey, P. W. (2024). Population ecology and socio-economic drivers of human-elephant conflicts in Okwangwo Sector of Cross Rivers National Park, Nigeria [Unpublished Master's Thesis]. Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeriahttps://repository.futo.edu.ng/handle/20.500.14562/2473This thesis is submitted for the award of Master of Science (MSc.) in Wildlife ManagementThis study assessed the population ecology and socioeconomic drivers of human-elephant conflicts (HEC) within the Okwangwo sector of Cross River National Park (CRNP). Using line transect surveys and dung count techniques, the elephant population was estimated at a density of 0.12±0.01 elephants/km². Data was collected from 480 households across eight purposively selected communities to investigate socioeconomic influences on HEC. Analytical methods included SPSS for questionnaire responses, logistic regression for crop-HEC relationships, and Likert scales for community perceptions. The findings indicated that various socioeconomic factors, such as gender, occupation, and income, significantly influence conservation attitudes, while age exhibits a weak and insignificant relationship. Respondents with tertiary education showed more positive conservation views (χ² = 620.387, df = 6, p = 0.0001), while gender and income sources also shaped perceptions. Crop raiding emerged as the primary form of conflict, with sweet potatoes (14.0%) being the most frequently targeted crop. About 51.9% of respondents experienced substantial crop damage, with 76.7% reporting losses between 30-50% of their agricultural produce. HEC was more prevalent during the dry season (67.5%) and nocturnal hours (60.0%). Spatial analysis revealed that communities such as Wula I and Bokalum faced the most severe impacts, including crop damage, injuries, and fatalities. Pearson's Chi-square analysis (X² = 34.317, df = 14, p = 0.002) demonstrated significant variation in HEC across locations, with logistic regression identifying specific crop types as predictors of conflict. Maize had a slight positive impact on HEC (0.005), while banana (-0.28) had a negative effect, and pumpkin (0.302) had a beneficial influence. Traditional deterrence methods were commonly employed by communities, but there was growing interest in innovative strategies, such as beehive fences, with 68.8% of respondents expressing interest. Mitigation priorities identified by respondents included livelihood enhancement (58.6%), forest buffer zone restoration (51.4%), providing water sources in elephant habitats (43.2%), and community education (39.5%). The study emphasizes the need for tailored conservation strategies that address declining elephant populations, varied community perceptions, and opportunities for harmonious coexistence. These findings provide critical insights for effective HEC mitigation and fostering positive wildlife community relations.enAttribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 InternationalPopulation ecologyhuman-elephant conflictsocio-economic driverscoexistencedung densityDepartment of Forestry and Wildlife TechnologyMaster’s Thesis