COMMUNITY PERCEPTION OF HUMAN–ELEPHANT CONFLICT AND CONSERVATION ATTITUDES IN THE DONG NAI BIOSPHERE RESERVE, VIETNAM

Abstract

Human–elephant conflict (HEC) has increasingly become a major challenge for elephant conservation and local livelihoods in regions where humans and elephants coexist. The Dong Nai Biosphere Reserve, which hosts the second-largest remaining elephant population in Vietnam, is no exception. This study assessed the extent of HEC-related damages, examined community awareness, and identified factors influencing local attitudes toward elephant conservation. A structured questionnaire survey was conducted with 430 households across four HEC-prone areas: Thanh Son, Ta Lai, Phu Ly, and Ma Da. Results indicated that 79.5% of respondents had experienced elephant-related damages, predominantly crop losses (69.07%) and threats to psychological well-being and personal safety (39.8%). Additionally, 67.0% believed that HEC has been increasing over time, and 83.3% expressed interest in participating in mitigation measures. A similarly high proportion (83.3%) agreed that elephant conservation is necessary. Logistic regression analysis revealed three variables with statistically significant influence on conservation attitudes: household income (Exp(β) = 7.910), interest in HEC mitigation measures (Exp(β) = 8.295), and the perception that HEC is increasing (Exp(β) = 3.254). These findings underscore the critical role of livelihood security and community awareness in shaping support for elephant conservation. The study recommends strengthening mitigation strategies, improving local livelihoods, enhancing communication and education efforts, and promoting inclusive community participation to reduce conflicts and support sustainable elephant conservation in the Dong Nai Biosphere Reserve.
Keywords: Human–elephant conflict; Community Perception; Conservation Attitudes; Dong Nai Biosphere Reserve; Elephant Conservation.