Ethnozoological Impacts on Fauna Conservation: The Case of Chimanimani National Park

Abstract

Interactions between humans and fauna have been considered essential to better understand the dynamics of socio-ecological systems. This study aimed to assess the ethno-zoological impact on fauna conservation in Chimanimani National Park, by studying the Mpunga Centro community values applied in the use of fauna species, their participation in conservation and the mensuration of ethnozoological impacts. Methodologically, bibliographic review was used for theoretical support and the data collection in the field for information analysis in a sample of 82 households. The collected data were processed on SPSS statistical package, version 20.0 and analyzed at a level of significance of 5%. The results showed that the community ecologically valorizes the species, on traditional medicine, on educational and recreational, cultural and religious value.  The results also showed that the community participates in conservation through preventing uncontrolled fires, getting involved in conservation agriculture, beekeeping, community inspection and ecotourism. Having concluded that the traditional knowledge of Mpunga Centro Community on the use of local fauna, influences on wildlife conservation of the Chimanimani National Park.

Keywords: Ethnozoology, conservation, local community, fauna species, Chimanimani National Park

DOI: 10.7176/JRDM/76-02

Publication date:June 30^th 2021