The effect of crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) on the human community in the lower Nilwala river valley

Abstract

The effect of crocodiles on the human community at two Grama Niladhari divisions Weragampita (417 H) and Nawimana (427) located in the Nilwala river valley in the Matara district was studied in July 2009. Data were collected using questionnaire submitted randomly to 40 households from each Grama Niladhari division. Information on relationship between human community and use of the river, i.e. for consumption ( bathing, washing, etc), livelihood purpose (fishing, sand mining, buffalo and cattle herding) was gathered through this survey. In addition, information on human awareness of existing crocodile population in this area was also gathered. Findings indicate that 82.35% households in Nawimana south and 70.58% households in Weragampita were stopped consumption of river. Eighty eight point two three percents households in Nawimana south and 100% households in Weragampita were abandoned livelihood conected to the river, such as fishing, sand mining, buffalo and cattle herding. In addition, 88.23% of studied sample of Nawimana south and 100% studied sample of Weragampita were complained that the crocodile population has increased during the previous decade. Our suggestions are to establish crocodile farms in the Nilwala valley and remove excess crocodiles after having proper analysis of the crocodile population. As well as to setup awareness programs of behavior of crocodiles and how to prevent from crocodile attacks in the Nilwala valley.