Composition of crops and land-use types in relation to crop raiding pattern at different distances from forests

摘要: Abstract Among the issues that farmers need to account for when planning their land-use and crop choice is yield loss from wild animals. The aim of this study was examine both distribution types crops (in fields homegardens) in relation distance forest edges possible impact raiding mammals. Thirty transects 1 km length were laid out a pair-wise design – 15 close (≤0.3 km) far (1–3.5 km) edges. We measured cover field each transect assessed species composition 4–6 homegardens along transect. also conducted questionnaire survey occurrence baboons bush pigs maize homegardens. Our results indicated not significantly different between sites Similarly, distributions homegarden similar these locations. pattern coming however strongly inclined toward according answers farmers. Although crops, such as maize, sorghum, tuber root are frequently attacked by either or both, apparently did stop growing crops. major reasons lack response practices forests could be perceived alternative less susceptible have adapted protection mechanisms problem manageable. Both ecological socio-economic studies needed order understand variation (and sometimes variation) ecosystem properties corresponding management across landscapes.