An assessment of the loss of woody and non-woody crops to wild pig (Sus scrofa L.) and mitigation measures adopted by the farmers in Sirsi taluk, Central Western Ghats, Karnataka, India

Abstract

This study examines the impact of wild pig (Sus scrofa L.) activity on agricultural crops in Sirsi taluk, Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka, India. Wild pig, known for their highly adaptable omnivorous diet have become a major cause of loss to agricultural crops especially in the villages near forested areas. The research conducted through a schedule survey of 59 farmholds across 10 villages focused on woody (areca nut and coconut) and non-woody crops (paddy, banana and jowar). Results indicate an average annual loss of Rs. 7,836/- per farmhold for woody crops and Rs. 12,496/- for non-woody crops. Farmers report frequent raids primarily during the monsoon season when wild pig exploit the high availability of nutritious crops. Although several mitigation measures, such as fencing and lighting are employed their effectiveness remains temporary with farmers incurring an average annual cost of Rs. 5,821/- per farmhold for such interventions. The study emphasizes the need for long-term solutions like habitat restoration and the creation of food resources within forests to reduce the dependence of wild pig on agricultural lands and mitigate financial losses to farmers.