• Dip Dalai
• Dr. Sumit Giri

FISHERMAN-FISHING CAT INTERACTION IN THE CHILIKA BRACKISH-WATER LAGOON, ODISHA. Dip Dalai1, Dr. Sumit Giri2 1. Dept. of Wildlife Science, University of Kota, Kota, Rajasthan 2. Dept. of Zoology, Belda College, Belda, Paschim Medinipur sumitgiri_zoo@rediffmail.com Abstract In human-dominated landscapes, interactions and perceptions towards wildlife are influenced by multidimensional factors. Understanding these factors could prove useful for wildlife conservation. We surveyed the attitudes and perceptions of fisherman towards fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus) at Chilika brackish water lagoon, India. To validate the factors of fisherman perceptions, I asked about 1) their socio-demographic background 2) their perception of common wildlife species 3) their perception (liked or disliked) of wild animal 4) attitudes towards the predators. The interaction between fisherman and fishing cat in Chilika lagoon is complex. Higher level of public awareness is required to mitigate the negative attitude. Wildlife conservation efforts should use the multidimensional drivers of human–wildlife interactions to involve local stakeholders in management.

Keywords: Chilika lagoon, fishing cat, human–wildlife interactions, conservation,

"Fisherman-fishing cat interaction in the chilika brackish-water lagoon, odisha.", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.9, Issue 5, page no.e141-e161, May-2022, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2205522.pdf

"Fisherman-fishing cat interaction in the chilika brackish-water lagoon, odisha.", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.9, Issue 5, page no. ppe141-e161, May-2022, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2205522.pdf