Peasant buffalo and tigers have a long history of conflict in many parts of Asia, due to the fact that both species require large amounts of resources to survive. Tigers are top predators that require large territories and prey on large herbivores, while peasant buffalo are large, domesticated herbivores that are kept by farmers for their milk, meat, and labor.
Conflicts between the two species typically arise when tigers prey on peasant buffalo, causing economic losses for the farmers who rely on the buffalo for their livelihood. In addition, tigers can be a threat to human safety if they come into contact with people. To mitigate these conflicts, various strategies have been implemented, including:
- Predator-proof enclosures: These enclosures are designed to keep tigers out of areas where buffalo are kept, reducing the risk of predation.
- Livestock guardian dogs: These dogs are trained to protect livestock from predators and can deter tigers from attacking buffalo.
- Fencing: Fences can be erected around areas where buffalo are kept to deter tigers from entering.
- Hunting and culling: In some cases, tigers may be hunted and culled to reduce their populations and limit conflicts with buffalo.
- Education and awareness: Raising awareness of the causes of conflicts between buffalo and tigers and promoting coexistence strategies can help to mitigate tensions between farmers, tiger conservationists, and local communities.