Crocodiles of the Oueme lower valley in Southern Benin: Local perceptions, uses and conservation challenges

The Oue<acute accent>me<acute accent> Lower Valley, located in Southern Benin, is renowned for its rich biodiversity, which includes three species of crocodiles. Despite the presence of the crocodile species, the relation between these species and the local population is not well known. In this study, we aimed to examine local perceptions of crocodiles, document their uses, and identify conservation challenges. Over a period of 10 months, we surveyed the local population to understand their perceptions of crocodiles and the uses they make of these animals. Given the critical role of perceived threats in shaping conservation attitudes and behaviours, our objective also included analyzing perceived threats to crocodiles. From the 420 individuals interviewed, 90 % have a negative perception of crocodiles, perceiving them as harmful. However, 10 % of respondents, mainly from the 'Xwla' ethnic group, have a positive perception, perceiving crocodiles as harmless and beneficial. Local communities attribute various virtues to crocodile by-products, with crocodile teeth being the most cited, valued for their protective qualities. According to them, the decline in crocodile populations in the area is attributed primarily to poaching, agriculture, and sand extraction, as reported by 35 %, 28 %, and 22 % of respondents, respectively. Educational initiatives aimed at raising awareness about the ecological significance of crocodiles should be implemented, particularly targeting ethnic groups with negative perceptions of crocodiles in the region. Future researches are also needed in order to study in deep the impacts of anthropic activities on the crocodile population in the area.