Available online Aug 4, 2025.

[ Original ] Volume 24, Issue 2, 2025, Pages 187-192

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Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between hunting practices and forest resource conservation, with a focus on indigent farmers in Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State. To guide the study, 0ne research question was raised and one hypothesis was formulated to guide the study. Predictive correlation research design was used and a sample of 321 indigent farmers was selected from a population of 6,433 using a combination of purposive and accidental sampling techniques. The Hunting Practice and Forest Resource Conservation Questionnaire (HPFRCQ) was used for data collection in this study. The HPFRCQ was validated by three experts, two from Department of Test and Measurement and one from Environmental Education all from University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River State.  The reliability of the HPFRCQ was also established using Cronbach's alpha method and coefficients obtained ranged from 0.82 to 0.87, indicating a high level of internal consistency. The data obtained was analyzed with Simple Linear Regression Analysis. The results revealed that hunting practice is significantly but negatively related to forest resource conservation in Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State. The researchers concluded that lack of awareness and education among indigent farmers about sustainable hunting practices contributed to the problem of unsustainable forest resource conservation in the research area. Based on the findings and conclusion, it was recommended that the government should promulgate and enforce a better policy against the unholy hunting of wild life. Fine and jail term can be given to defaulters to help conserve the forest wildlife.

Keywords

Hunting practices, Forest resource conservation, Indigent, Farmers,

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