completed · Disaster Risk

Application of molecular method to understand and manage Human Elephant Conflict in Parsa-Chitwan Complex, Nepal.

The purpose of this project is to study the behavior and genetics of wild Asian elephants in the Chitwan-Parsa National Park complex of Nepal to better understand the drivers of conflict elephant behavior and overall population structure of this subpopulation in Nepal. Specific project activities include: 1) conduct a population survey using genetic techniques; 2) using dung samples perform ELISA tests on stress hormone levels in elephants; 3) extract DNA for DNA-based profiles of individuals; 4) establish and train a rapid response team for human-elephant conflict events; 5) conduct three visits for villagers of high HEC villages to elephant-bearing protected areas. This project will produce reports on the population status and structure of Asian elephants in the Chitwan-Parsa complex, contribute to a better understanding of stress on elephant conflict behavior, build a DNA-profile database of the existing population, create a well-equipped HEC rapid response team, and increase the tolerance of local inhabitants to elephants and overall contribute to the conservation of wild Asian elephants in Nepal. ."