Objective estimates of crop loss due to herbivores and their comparison with the perception of people towards damage factors are required for the formulation of effective mitigation strategies. From October 2016 to May 2018, we used protected and unprotected plots to measure the extent of crop damage by blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra) and nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) in the Abohar wildlife sanctuary (India). Land use and land cover (LULC) analysis of 2011–2012 data revealed that more than 90% of the sanctuary was under agricultural practices. The crop grain yield was significantly lower in unprotected plots. Mean (± SD) reduction in crop yield was significantly higher in mustard (40.12 ± 4.56%) than in cotton (26.50 ± 3.50%) and wheat (20.61 ± 3.94%) (p < 0.01). Perceived risk plots (based on 152 semi-structured interviews) revealed that local people working in the farming sector perceived nilgai to be the most crop depredating species followed by blackbuck, pests and stray animals. Participants manifested resentment toward the non-existence of crop damage compensation schemes. Managing wildlife habitats could also reduce the pressure on cultivated zones.