During the pandemic, rural Nigerian communities harvested more wild meat but sold less, finds study from Forests News, Center for International Forestry Research

The COVID-19 pandemic has had far-reaching effects on communities around the world, and rural Nigerian communities are no exception. A recent study has found that these communities have been catching more wild meat during the pandemic, but paradoxically, they have been selling less of it. This trend has significant implications for both the environment and the livelihoods of people in these communities.

One of the key findings of the study is that the increased hunting of wild meat in rural Nigerian communities is likely due to the economic hardships brought about by the pandemic. With many people losing their jobs or sources of income, they have turned to hunting as a way to feed their families. This has led to a surge in the number of animals being caught for consumption.

However, despite the increase in hunting, the study found that the sale of wild meat has decreased during the pandemic. This is likely because of restrictions on movement and transportation, as well as a decrease in demand for wild meat in urban areas. As a result, many people in rural communities are left with excess wild meat that they are unable to sell, leading to potential food waste and economic losses.

The decrease in the sale of wild meat has both positive and negative implications for the environment. On the one hand, it could help to reduce the pressure on wildlife populations, allowing them to recover and thrive. On the other hand, the increase in hunting could still have negative impacts on certain species, especially those that are already threatened or endangered.

In addition to the environmental implications, the decrease in the sale of wild meat also has significant economic consequences for people in rural Nigerian communities. Many rely on the sale of wild meat as a source of income, and the decrease in demand has left them struggling to make ends meet. This could exacerbate existing poverty and food insecurity in these communities, further highlighting the need for sustainable and resilient livelihood strategies.

Overall, the findings of this study shed light on the complex interplay between the COVID-19 pandemic, wild meat hunting, and rural livelihoods in Nigeria. It underscores the importance of addressing the economic and environmental challenges faced by these communities, and the need for targeted interventions to support both people and wildlife in the wake of the pandemic. By understanding these dynamics and working towards sustainable solutions, we can help to build more resilient and equitable communities in rural Nigeria and beyond.