Knowledge, attitudes, and practices on red-billed quelea (Quelea quelea) control among agro-pastoralists in Wajaale District, Gabiley Region, Somaliland

Abstract

This study examined the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of agro-pastoral farmers regarding the control of red-billed quelea birds (Quelea quelea) in the Wajaale District, Gabiley Region, Somaliland, where recurrent invasions pose a persistent threat to cereal production and rural livelihoods. A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among 186 agro-pastoral farmers selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, composite KAP scores, and binary logistic regression. The results showed that farmers had a moderate overall level of knowledge, with high awareness of crop damage and collective control principles, but limited understanding of quelea ecology and certain control options. Attitudes reflected a very high perception of risk and strong support for collective and government involvement, alongside limited confidence in individual measures. Control practices were predominantly reactive and low-cost, particularly noise-based scaring, while the farmers rarely used preventive, agronomic, and technically demanding methods. Participation in coordinated community or government campaigns was comparatively high when these mechanisms were available. Binary logistic regression indicated that positive attitudes and higher knowledge levels were the only significant predictors of improved control practices. Farmers identified the scale and speed of quelea invasions, lack of timely institutional support, and information constraints as the major challenges. These findings highlight a gap between awareness of the problem and the adoption of effective control practices, underscoring the need for improved coordination and support mechanisms for sustainable Quelea management.