Title: Herders’ perceptions towards livestock contribution to wetland degradation: A case study of Muela, Botha-Bothe district, Lesotho

Wetland degradation has become a global challenge, because of the overutilization of wetland resources, ever-increasing population growth, and livestock grazing. Livestock grazing in Lesotho is attributed to wetland degradation through the removal of vegetation cover, trampling, and compaction, which result in accelerated erosion negatively impacting the potential of wetlands to store water. This study aimed to determine herders' perceptions concerning their animals’ contributions to wetland degradation. The study was conducted in Botha-Bothe, Lesotho, where the Thaba Chitja herders’ association has been established in Muela village. A qualitative approach was used where open-ended questions were used to obtain opinions from herders. The findings revealed that herders are aware of wetland degradation caused by grazing. However, the demand for green grass, water accessibility, and lack of rangeland grazing area due to the spread of invasive species are driving factors for wetlands grazing. Herders seemed worried about the wetlands and their animals as well. They reported willingness to change grazing management whenever they can get a conducive environment satisfying their livestock.