Search Results (38)

Mammalian carnivores play an important role in maintaining the integrity of an ecosystem; therefore, their conservation as an umbrella species ensures the conservation of other species as well as the entire ecosystem. The northern area of Pakistan has a rich diversity of globally and regionally significant carnivore species, many of which are threatened mainly due to conflict with humans. In the current study, we used multiple survey techniques: camera trapping, sign surveys, and questionnaire surveys in the Basha–Braldu Valleys of the Central Karakoram National Park (CKNP) during the period 20 May–31 July 2017. The objectives were to document mammalian carnivore diversity and relative abundance and to assess community perceptions of carnivores and human–carnivore conflicts associated with economic losses from livestock depredation. Camera trapping was only carried out in the Basha valley, where 30 motion-triggered cameras were deployed for two months, maintaining a minimum spatial distance of 1 km between the nearest cameras. Sign surveys were carried out in both valleys by dividing the area into 5 km × 5 km grids. Signs of carnivores were searched in a 50 m radius of the sampling point, and a minimum distance of 100 m was maintained between the two nearest sampling points. The questionnaire survey was conducted in communities residing in both valleys. Overall, 140 randomly selected locals from 23 villages were interviewed about the human–carnivore interaction in the area. The questionnaire covered the respondents’ demographics, carnivore sightings and status, economic loss due to livestock depredation, and local perceptions towards carnivores. The study confirmed the presence of seven carnivore species, including the snow leopard (Panthera uncia), grey wolf (Canis lupus), red fox (Vulpes vulpes), brown bear (Ursus arctos), Himalayan lynx (Lynx lynx), stone marten (Martes foina), and weasel (Mustela altaica). Of the total livestock losses reported, carnivores accounted for 30% (394 animals), while 70% (1347 animals) were attributed to disease, resulting in an overall economic loss of USD 138,778 (USD 991 per household). Livestock depredation varied with season, prey type, location, livestock guarding practices, and predator species. Due to high levels of livestock depredation, local communities perceived the grey wolf as the most dangerous carnivore, with many respondents favoring its reduction or elimination. Our findings indicate that the Basha–Braldu Valleys support a rich diversity of globally important carnivore species; however, human–carnivore conflict driven by livestock depredation remains a major conservation challenge. Effective conflict-mitigation interventions are essential to promote sustainable conservation practices and long-term coexistence within these mountain ecosystems. Further studies are recommended to improve the understanding of carnivore population status, distribution, and dietary ecology. Full article

Human intolerance is a critical factor limiting both the distributions and populations of large carnivores. Using gray wolves as a case study, we synthesize a half-century of scholarship with the aims of clarifying the conceptual foundations of “tolerance” and integrating insights from across the social sciences. Specifically, we review longitudinal studies of attitudes toward wolves and show how trends vary across the populations examined. We then identify and discuss three complementary theories that help explain variation in tolerance across individuals, social groups, and societies: (1) Risk–benefit theories illuminate how perceptions of risks, benefits, and controllability shape individuals’ tolerance of carnivores; (2) Modernization theory explains societal shifts in values and shows how reduced threats from carnivores impact tolerance at the societal level; and (3) Social Identity Theory highlights how identification with interest groups (e.g., hunters, environmentalists) shape beliefs in a manner that serves to exacerbate inter-group conflicts. Linking these theoretical perspectives provides a more holistic framework for understanding why tolerance can change within populations, and why inter-group conflicts persist even as societal attitudes have become more favorable. We conclude by outlining research priorities aimed at improving our understanding of tolerance and the conditions that allow for human–carnivore coexistence. Full article

Leopards (Panthera pardus) are considered solitary carnivores, but recent research reveals a more complex lifestyle that incorporates kin selection, hidden social structures, and behavioral innovation and plasticity. This paper combines theoretical advancements in kin selection with empirical findings from the peri-urban Jhalana Forest Reserve in Jaipur, India. Our research demonstrates that kin-tolerant spatial organization, maternal investment, temporal avoidance strategies, and adaptive responses to human-induced pressures form the foundation of leopard ecology in Jhalana. Female philopatry leads to the formation of matrilineal clusters, and maternal strategies play a crucial role in cub survival, with a cumulative two-year survival rate estimated at 61.8%. Emotional behaviors, such as grief-like responses to the loss of cubs, further challenge the notion that leopards are purely solitary animals. These findings have significant implications for evolutionary theory, conservation management, and human–wildlife coexistence. Jhalana serves as a model system where solitude and social behavior intersect, redefining our understanding of leopard ecology and guiding conservation efforts in human-dominated landscapes. Full article

Although sympatric carnivores typically exhibit dietary differentiation to reduce interspecific competition, contemporary isotopic comparisons of European mustelids remain scarce. In this study, we present the first modern stable isotope analysis of hair to evaluate the dietary niches and trophic relationships of pine martens (Martes martes), stone martens (Martes foina), and European polecats (Mustela putorius) in Lithuania and Latvia. The stable carbon and nitrogen isotope values differed among the species. M. martes showed lower δ¹⁵N values and more depleted δ¹³C signatures than the two more synanthropic species. Isotopic niche analyses revealed that M. martes occupied the broadest niche, while M. foina and M. putorius exhibited narrower niches with substantial overlap. Habitat influenced trophic position: individuals from settlements showed higher δ¹⁵N values than those from forests or wetlands. In contrast, sex- and age-related differences were weak or absent. These results demonstrate that despite partial spatial coexistence, sympatric mustelids differ primarily in isotopic niche structure rather than mean isotope values and that human-modified environments promote trophic convergence among generalist mesocarnivores. However, the small sample sizes for M. foina and M. putorius mean that estimates of isotopic niche width and overlap should be regarded as preliminary, and observed sex- and age-related patterns likely reflect limited statistical power rather than the absence of intraspecific dietary variation. Full article

Misiones province covers < 1% of Argentina’s land area yet harbors > 50% of the country’s biodiversity, with a significant remnant of Atlantic Forest, a global biodiversity hotspot. Approximately 540,000 ha of this native forest is protected, with the remaining areas facing threats from ongoing land conversion, an expanding road network, and a growing rural population. A prior study incorporated noninvasive data on five carnivores into a multifaceted cost analysis to define the optimal location for a multispecies biological corridor, with the goal of enhancing landscape connectivity among protected areas. Subsequent analyses, with an updated framework, emphasized management strategies that balanced human–wildlife coexistence and habitat needs. Building on these efforts, our study applied ecological niche modeling to data located by conservation detection dogs, with genetics used to confirm species identity, and two land-use scenarios, to predict potential distributions of three game species—lowland tapir (Tapirus terrestris), white-lipped peccary (Tayassu pecari), and collared peccary (Pecari tajacu)—that are not only threatened by poaching, road mortality, and habitat loss but also serve as essential prey for carnivores. We assessed the suitability of unique and overlapping vegetation types, within and outside of protected areas, as well as within this multispecies corridor, identifying zones of high conservation concern that underscore the need for integrated planning of predators and prey. These results highlight that ensuring the long-term viability of wildlife across the heterogeneous land-use matrices of Misiones requires going beyond protected areas to promote functional connectivity, restore degraded habitats, and balance human–wildlife needs. Full article

The current range of the jaguar (Panthera onca) spans sixty degrees of latitude across eighteen countries in the Western Hemisphere and covers approximately 7,000,000 km². Throughout this geographical breadth, jaguars represent an essential component of native biological diversity, but conflict revolving around real and perceived jaguar depredation on livestock is a factor in jaguar mortality. We developed a structured questionnaire to evaluate the effectiveness of anti-depredation strategies from northern Mexico to Argentina, collecting data from 11 countries and 248 livestock operations, 194 with efficacy metrics, and 24 with benefit–cost ratios (value of the livestock losses averted/cost of the intervention). Using coarse categories, 11 intervention types were tested. Techniques effectively reducing livestock losses were documented across the entire livestock operation size (2–130,000 ha, 5–30,000 head) and biome spectrum. While the techniques varied in complexity and required levels of investment, successful reductions in depredation were achieved at all levels. We conclude that anti-depredation strategies are highly effective, and when benefits are evaluated, they surpass costs, sometimes substantially. Given the proven efficacy and cost-effectiveness of the techniques described in this paper, we advocate for broader application across the species range to increase tolerance towards jaguars and a more effective human–jaguar coexistence. Full article

Despite the growing human–wildlife interactions (HWIs) globally, little attention has been paid to their effects on women and children, who often bear the brunt of loss of property and livelihoods. A systematic scoping review of four databases was undertaken to map and synthesize English-language evidence on the nature, causes, and impact of human–wildlife interactions on women and children across cultures. The 42 studies retained reveal that the proximity of human habitation to forest areas; expansion, deforestation, and encroachment of animal space; humans’ dependence on forest resources for livelihood; displacement of carnivores; and animals coming into the human space in search for food are the predominant causes of HWIs. Various types of HWIs and widely varying frequencies and durations of HWIs were reported. Individual and collective aspects of physical, psychological, economic, social, and environmental impacts on women and children were identified. The themes extracted were gendered roles, multi-factor vulnerabilities of women, religious beliefs, low participation of women in decision-making, social superstition against tiger widows, and perceptions of coexistence. Attention to perceptions of HWIs in different cultures and societies was limited, with notable gaps in the coverage of women and children and important geographic areas. These findings stress the need to bridge the geographical and cultural gap through multi-disciplinary actions on the determinants and effects of HWIs on women and children. Full article

Human–wildlife conflict poses significant ecological and socio-economic challenges, particularly in rural communities where agriculture and livestock rearing form the backbone of livelihoods. Despite the growing importance of this issue, District Lakki Marwat remains an unexplored area of northwest Pakistan. This study aims to fill this gap by systematically assessing the status, economic impacts, and community perceptions of five wildlife species: wild boar (Sus scrofa), grey wolf (Canis lupus), golden jackal (Canis aureus), striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena), and red fox (Vulpes vulpes). Using semi-structured surveys with 117 respondents, we analyzed species prevalence, perceived danger levels, crop damage patterns, and predation impacts on livestock and poultry. The findings revealed that wild boars were identified as the primary contributors to agricultural damage, with total annual crop losses surpassing the economic impacts attributed to the studied carnivores. On average, each surveyed household experienced an annual loss of PKR 4510.38. For the 39% of households reporting crop damage, the annual loss per reported household was PKR 11,727, which was higher than the average annual loss across all households, underscoring the severity of the impact on those specifically affected by the wild boar-related crop damage. Notably, community attitudes were most negative toward wild boars, a pattern driven by the economic burden of crop losses, challenging the conventional focus on carnivores as the primary conflict species. A Pearson’s $X^2$ test confirmed strong associations between species and perceived danger levels, while regression analysis demonstrated an association between crop damage and negative attitudes. Traditional deterrents like thorn fences were found ineffective against wild boars. More advanced methods, including game-proof fencing, trenches, bio-fencing, crop rotation, audio and visual deterrents, taste and order repellents, and watchtowers combined with group vigilance, are recommended to reduce crop damage. Integrating these approaches with community-based education, habitat management, and government-supported compensation schemes can mitigate wild boar impacts. This study contributes new insights into multi-species HWC dynamics, demonstrating that community perceptions are primarily shaped by the economic impact of a species, regardless of whether it is a carnivore or an omnivore. The attitudes of local communities are driven by the financial losses incurred, rather than the species' behavior or ecological role. This study underscores the need for collaborative efforts to reduce human–wildlife conflict, foster coexistence, and ensure ecological balance in vulnerable rural areas. Full article

Coexisting with large carnivores in human-dominated European landscapes is a highly relevant and current challenge. Over the last two centuries, the wolf (Canis lupus) population in Europe has experienced a significant decline, primarily due to direct human persecution. However, recent conservation policies, combined with the species’ remarkable ecological flexibility, have enabled a rapid recovery. This process, which now also extends to densely populated areas, is exemplified by the ongoing expansion across the Po Plain, one of Europe’s most heavily human-dominated landscapes. Our study aims to provide the first assessment of habitat suitability for wolf presence in the Po Plain. Using a ten-year dataset of wolf occurrences (2015–2024), we evaluated the influence of several environmental and human-related factors by applying habitat suitability models with the Maximum Entropy algorithm (MaxEnt). The goal was to quantify potentially suitable habitats within the plain and to identify the factors that could either facilitate or constrain wolf presence. The results showed that approximately half of the Po Plain is suitable for wolf presence. Among anthropogenic variables, “urban areas” was the only factor that significantly and negatively affected habitat suitability, while other variables had negligible impacts. This underscores the species’ remarkable ecological and behavioural adaptability. By investigating wolf distribution in one of Europe’s most anthropised regions, this study aims to shed light on the species’ ability to thrive in human-altered landscapes, contributing to ongoing conservation efforts and informing future strategies for coexistence in highly populated lowland ecosystems. Full article

Mitigating human–wolf conflict is crucial, yet conventional approaches often overlook the broader socioeconomic challenges faced by farming communities. Wolves frequently become scapegoats for deeper rooted issues such as economic disadvantages, policy deficiencies, and rural depopulation. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 118 livestock farmers to examine (a) farmer profiles and wolf-related interactions, (b) professional challenges and proposed solutions, (c) reasons for perceiving wolves as a major problem, and (d) the impact of wolf presence on job dissatisfaction. Farmers reported low specialized education and job satisfaction, particularly regarding income. Many struggled to afford or find shepherds, especially sheep/goat farmers. Guardian dog poisoning incidents and dissatisfaction with the damage compensation system were prevalent. Key challenges included economic marginalization, wolf presence, climatic factors, inadequate grazing policies, infrastructure deficits, distrust in policy, rural depopulation, and a lack of services. Farmers who perceived wolves as a major problem implemented weaker preventive measures and moved herds seasonally over longer distances. Job dissatisfaction was linked to wolf presence, livestock type, and economic marginalization. Our findings emphasize that while wolves impact farmers, economic and policy-related factors play a greater role. Educational initiatives, supportive policies, effective depredation mitigation, and fair compensation systems are essential for sustainable livestock farming and coexistence with wolves. By tackling socioeconomic challenges, enhancing policies, and supporting farmers to adapt to evolving circumstances, the livestock farming sector can thrive while minimizing conflicts associated with wolves. Full article

Habitat fragmentation poses a significant threat to the existence and reproduction of large carnivores, such as brown bears, as it affects the genetic connectivity of populations and, consequently, their long-term viability. Understanding the genetic makeup and dispersal patterns in areas where brown bears live is crucial for developing effective conservation plans and promoting human-brown bear coexistence. In this study, 214 hair samples were collected non-invasively from brown bears and were genetically analyzed using fifteen specific microsatellite loci to shed light on the genetic status and demography of a sub-population residing in Central Greece (Trikala-Meteora area). The broader Central and South Pindos regions have not been studied for over a decade; however, high levels of genetic diversity, a lack of heterozygosity deficiency, and no signs of inbreeding, along with an estimated effective population size (Ne = 99), confirm the good conservation status of this sub-population. Moreover, the existence of a natural and apparently functional corridor in Central Pindos was demonstrated by bear movements between the western and eastern parts of the project area, enhancing the sustainability of the population. These findings will contribute to future efforts to conserve natural corridors that enable functional connectivity among large areas of brown bear territories in Greece. Full article

Human activities have resulted in severe habitat degradation and fragmentation at a global scale. Despite this scenario, some carnivore species that adapted to the new conditions are expanding, leading to close coexistence with humans and the emergence of potential conflicts. In this work, we used a European wildcat (Felis silvestris) observations database of more than 350 sightings over 17 years in NW Spain to build suitability models based on environmental, topographic, climatic, and human impact variables. MaxEnt was used to analyse the availability of suitable habitats for the species at a regional scale. Our results showed that less than one third of the suitable area for the species had confirmed wildcat presence. Elevation, the percentage of forested area, and footpath density were the three main variables conditioning wildcat presence, with the first two variables having positive effects and footpath density negatively affecting wildcat presence. The selection of high areas and forest areas by the species seems to be related to food availability, while the avoidance of footpaths seems to be related to the fact that main mortality causes are linked to human disturbances. The results enhance the understanding of the European wildcat ecology and provide insight into potential management plans to ensure the conservation of one of the main populations of the species throughout its range. Full article

In Taiwan, the leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis chinensis) remains the only extant native wild cat species. Previous studies have suggested anthropogenic factors as a cause of their decline, mainly due to conflicts with local farmers. Adaptation strategies that generate co-benefits are key to achieving human–wildlife coexistence. However, an understanding of the local views on such strategies is currently lacking. In this study, we performed the first regional assessment of 10 adaptation strategies for human–leopard cat coexistence and examined the impact of the socio-demographic factors affecting farmers’ willingness to participate in these strategies based on quantitative interviews with 418 farmers in Miaoli County, employing an importance–performance analysis. We also present an integrated conceptual framework capturing five adaptation strategy domains and their resulting benefits, which lay the structural foundation for facilitating resilient coexistence. Our findings suggest that (1) respondents’ perceived importance and performance of adaptation strategies were significantly different; (2) respondents most agreed with improvements in the incorporation of local knowledge/skills into science and policy and the establishment of adaptive co-management with local associations/non-governmental organisations; and (3) respondents aged below 49 years, supportive of coexistence, who did not own poultry, and preferred local farmer organisations to facilitate coexistence, were more likely to participate in the proposed adaptation strategies. Our findings provide guidelines for the future direction of the conservation and management of leopard cats that help achieve harmonious coexistence in shared landscapes. Full article

Livestock herding is a vital practice in Balochistan, contributing to the economy and culture. The livestock sector is significant in Balochistan, providing 20% of the national stock. Large predators and their prey species, including livestock, have coexisted in these mountainous landscapes for centuries. The aim of the present research is to investigate the impacts of livestock depredation by large predators on livelihoods and predator conservation in two districts of Balochistan, Pakistan. A human–carnivore conflict survey was conducted from July to September 2019, collecting data from 311 residents in a selected study area. Large predators in the study area preyed on a total of 876 livestock during a one-year period, including 560 goats, 292 sheep, 19 cows, and 5 donkeys. The gray wolf is the leading predator, responsible for 66.3% of livestock depredation, followed by the caracal (24.3%), Asiatic jackal (8.9%), and striped hyena (0.6%). The total economic loss was USD 78,694. Overall, 80% of respondents had a negative perception of wolves compared to 24.4% for caracals. Only 20.6% of respondents knew about the importance of conserving carnivores. Livestock depredation by carnivores in the study area created a negative perception of these animals among people. There is a lack of awareness about the importance of conserving carnivore species and their role in the ecosystem. This lack of understanding has ultimately led to detrimental effects on predator populations. It is imperative to raise awareness among people about the ecological significance of carnivores through community meetings, seminars in educational institutions, and providing basic education to herders about effective livestock guarding practices. Full article

Livestock predation induces global human–wildlife conflict, triggering the retaliatory killing of large carnivores. Although domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) contribute to livestock depredation, blame primarily falls on wild predators. Dogs can also transmit pathogens between wildlife, domestic animals, and humans. Therefore, the presence of free-ranging dogs can have negative consequences for biodiversity conservation, smallholder economy, food supply, and public health, four of the United Nations’ Sustainable Developed Goals (SDGs) for 2030. In Ecuador, where livestock sustains rural households, retaliatory poaching threatens Andean bear (Tremarctos ornatus), jaguar (Panthera onca), and puma (Puma concolor) populations. However, the role of dogs in these incidents remains underexplored. The present study evaluates the possibility of reliable molecular identification of predatory species from DNA traces in bite wounds. Our results revealed the presence of dog saliva on four out of six livestock carcasses presumably attacked by wild predators. These findings highlight the importance of rectifying misinformation about large carnivores in Ecuador and the need to control dog populations. We recommend that local administrations incorporate DNA analysis into livestock predation events to examine how common the problem is, and to use the analysis to develop conflict mitigation strategies which are essential for the conservation of large carnivores. Full article