Human-wildlife conflict is a worldwide phenomenon. Through a household survey supplemented
by informal interviews, this study attempts to understand the dynamics of livestock predation
by carnivores at village level in Botswana. The study reveals that farmers perceive hyenas and
lions to cause more livestock losses than other predators. In order to reduce predation, attempts
should be made to put livestock in enclosures at night and also to herd them during the day.
These practices comply with the conditions of the new government compensation policy for
livestock losses caused by carnivores. The study recommends a review of the compensation
rates and suggests that they should be closer to the market value. Such changes, accompanied
by strict animal husbandry practices, may bring about the increased willingness of households
to co-exist with predators.