Strategies to promote harmonious coexistence between wildlife and cocoa production

Abstract

Shaded cacao agroecosystems are essential for wildlife conservation because they provide habitats similar to natural forests, offering shelter and food to various species. Some frugivorous species eat cacao fruits, which generates some reactions among producers. Through focus groups, interviews, surveys, and field observations, information was gathered to understand the relationship between wildlife and cacao production, with the aim of proposing strategies that promote harmonious coexistence between wildlife and cacao production. Among the species that feed on cacao are squirrels (Sciurus variegatoides), woodpeckers (Melanerpes hoffmannii), white-faced capuchins (Cebus imitator), spider monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi), congo monkeys (Alouatta palliata), kinkajous (Potos flavus), and agoutis (Cuniculus paca). Based on the information obtained and literature review, five short-term strategies are proposed: directly protecting the fruits, placing obstacles on the trunks of shade trees, utilizing fruits damaged by squirrels and woodpeckers, maintaining cacao areas, and increasing the presence of producers or designated personnel in the area. In the long term, it is suggested to establish fruit trees or shrubs that attract wildlife (decoy plantation) and divert their attention from the cocoa areas. The strategies have been identified and detailed with the participation of stakeholders, literature review, the experience of experts, and analysis of the research team.