Spatial Distribution and Influencing Factors of Crop Loss Caused by Wildlife

Abstract

The scope of wildlife has expanded with the implementation of ecological restoration projects. Therefore, the number of conflicts between humans and wildlife in agricultural production has also increased. By studying the spatial distribution and influencing factors of crop losses caused by wildlife, we can understand the distribution of the wildlife population, the effectiveness of ecological restoration projects, and take targeted measures towards reducing the spread of wildlife populations and mitigating the damage caused to crops. This paper examines the Miyun District of Beijing, an area in which wildlife frequently causes crop losses in China. We construct spatial statistical and pooled data regression models to analyse the spatial distribution and influencing factors of crop losses caused by wildlife in the study area. Results revealed the following: the spatial distribution of wildlife conflicts in Miyun District were agglomerated and expanded in the spatial scope, which indicates that the distribution of wildlife populations in Miyun District is spreading and afforestation projects are effective. There is a close relationship between the extent of crop loss caused by wildlife and wildlife types, crop types, types of protection and eviction measures, and the environment surrounding the agricultural land. The scope of wildlife can be controlled and losses caused by wildlife reduced through measures such as rationally planting crops, building a buffer area around farmland, physically driving wildlife away, and planting trees that wildlife will not consume as part of afforestation projects.