Topical Collection "Human-Wildlife Conflict and Interaction"

A topical collection in Animals (ISSN 2076-2615). This collection belongs to the section "Wildlife".

Editor

Prof. Pia Lucidi
E-Mail
Guest Editor
Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
Interests: physiology; ethology; animal behavior; animal cognition

Topical Collection Information

Dear Colleagues,

The encounters of humans with other animals have always influenced the fate of both. Impulsive or planned emotion-driven human actions have led to the establishment of different relationships with different species, from decimation to protection, at various historical moments.
Worldwide, people interact with wild animals, from wolves to rats, through an anthropocentric point of view that, for example, has driven us to consider pelicans or killer whales as competitors for fishing. Yet, what we call human–wildlife conflict (HWC) too often leads to the persecution, translocation, or eradication of non-human animals.
Today, many people are more conscious of human responsibility towards other species, and thus many forms of human–wildlife interaction (HWI) are valued and performed worldwide, for example, whale watching, birdwatching, photo safari, and ecotourism.
In many poor countries, this reciprocal influence promotes local development by enhancing environmental awareness and purpose by protecting rather than exploiting nature.
Authors are invited to submit original articles or reviews exploring HWC and HWI in new, contemporary ways for this Special Issue of Animals. The theme (regardless of species) should be anchored to specific leanings such as economy, welfare, management, and animal cognition.

Prof. Pia Lucidi
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • wildlife protection
  • wildlife management
  • wildlife economy
  • wildlife strategies
  • coexistence
  • animal cognition

Published Papers (23 papers)

2021

Jump to: 2020

Article
Effects of Tourism on the Habitat Use by a Threatened Large Rodent at a World Heritage Site
Animals 2021, 11(8), 2278; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11082278 - 02 Aug 2021
Viewed by 596
Abstract
The mara is a large endemic rodent, which presents a marked decline in its populations, mainly because of habitat loss, hunting, and overgrazing. The Ischigualasto Provincial Park is a hyper-arid protected area at the Monte Desert of Argentina with an overall low plant [...] Read more.
The mara is a large endemic rodent, which presents a marked decline in its populations, mainly because of habitat loss, hunting, and overgrazing. The Ischigualasto Provincial Park is a hyper-arid protected area at the Monte Desert of Argentina with an overall low plant cover. Our objective was to determine the influence of environmental variables and tourist activities on mara’s habitat use. We used different biological levels to explain it, from plant community to floristic composition, in order to know at which level we can better detect the effects of tourist activities. We registered fresh feces and habitat variables along 80 transects in two communities, near and far away from the tourist circuit. To evaluate habitat use, we fitted models at different biological levels: plant community, plant strata, plant biological forms, and floristic composition. At the community and plant strata levels, we could not detect any tourism effects on habitat use. However, we detected effects of tourist activities on mara’s habitat use at the plant strata and floristic composition levels. Maras also selected areas with a low proportion of both bare soil and pebbles cover. We found complex interactions between abiotic, biotic variables and tourism, studying mara’s places near tourism activities, probably because they perceive those places as predator-safe areas. Full article
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Article
Anthropogenic and Environmental Factors Determining Local Favourable Conditions for Wolves during the Cold Season
Animals 2021, 11(7), 1895; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11071895 - 25 Jun 2021
Viewed by 607
Abstract
Winter resources are crucial for wildlife, and, at a local scale, some anthropogenic and environmental factors could affect their availability. In the case of wolves, it is known that vocalisations in response to unfamiliar howls are issued to defend their territory and the [...] Read more.
Winter resources are crucial for wildlife, and, at a local scale, some anthropogenic and environmental factors could affect their availability. In the case of wolves, it is known that vocalisations in response to unfamiliar howls are issued to defend their territory and the important resources within it. Then, we studied the characteristics of winter response sites (WRS) during the cold season, aiming to assess their eventual ability to provide insights into the distribution of valuable resources within their territories. Within this scope, we planned a wolf-howling survey following a standardised approach. The study covered an Apennine (Central Italy) area of 500 km2. A hexagonal mesh was imposed on the area, in order to determine the values of different variables at the local scale. A logistic LASSO regression was performed. WRS were positively related to the presence of thermal refuges (odds = 114.485), to patch richness (odds = 1.153), wild boar drive hunting areas (odds = 1.015), and time elapsed since the last hunt (odds = 1.019). Among negative factors, stray dogs reply considerably affects wolves’ responsiveness (odds = 0.207), where odds are the exponentiated coefficients estimated by the logistic lasso regression. These results suggest that WRS are related to anthropogenic and environmental factors favouring the predation process. Full article
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Article
Conflicts with Wolves Can Originate from Their Parent Packs
Animals 2021, 11(6), 1801; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11061801 - 16 Jun 2021
Viewed by 906
Abstract
Transmission of experience about prey and habitat supports the survival of next generation of wolves. Thus, the parent pack (PP) can affect whether young migrating wolves (loners) kill farm animals or choose to be in human environments, which generates human–wolf conflicts. Therefore, we [...] Read more.
Transmission of experience about prey and habitat supports the survival of next generation of wolves. Thus, the parent pack (PP) can affect whether young migrating wolves (loners) kill farm animals or choose to be in human environments, which generates human–wolf conflicts. Therefore, we researched whether the behavior of loners resembles PP behavior. After being extinct, 22 loners had entered the Netherlands between 2015 and 2019. Among them, 14 could be DNA-identified and linked with their PPs in Germany. Some loners were siblings. We assessed the behavior of each individual and PP through a structured Google search. PP behavior was determined for the loner’s rearing period. Similarity between loner and PP behavior was significant (p = 0.022) and applied to 10 of 14 cases: like their PPs, three loners killed sheep and were near humans, five killed sheep and did not approach humans, while two loners were unproblematic, they did not kill sheep, nor were they near humans. Siblings behaved similarly. Thus, sheep killing and proximity to humans may develop during early-life experiences in the PP. However, by negative reinforcement that can be prevented. New methods are suggested to achieve that. As a result, new generations may not be problematic when leaving PPs. Full article
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Review
The Perils of Being Populous: Control and Conservation of Abundant Kangaroo Species
Animals 2021, 11(6), 1753; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11061753 - 11 Jun 2021
Viewed by 1184
Abstract
Australia’s first people managed landscapes for kangaroo species as important elements of their diet, accoutrements and ceremony. This developed and persisted for about 65,000 years. The second wave of colonists from the United Kingdom, Ireland and many subsequent countries introduced familiar domesticated livestock [...] Read more.
Australia’s first people managed landscapes for kangaroo species as important elements of their diet, accoutrements and ceremony. This developed and persisted for about 65,000 years. The second wave of colonists from the United Kingdom, Ireland and many subsequent countries introduced familiar domesticated livestock and they have imposed their agricultural practices on the same landscapes since 1788. This heralded an ongoing era of management of kangaroos that are perceived as competitors to livestock and unwanted consumers of crops. Even so, a kangaroo image remains the iconic identifier of Australia. Kangaroo management is shrouded in dogma and propaganda and creates a tension along a loose rural–city divide. This divide is further dissected by the promotion of the consumption of kangaroo products as an ecological good marred by valid concerns about hygiene and animal welfare. In the last decade, the fervour to suppress and micro-manage populations of some kangaroo species has mounted. This includes suppression within protected areas that have generally been considered as safe havens. This review explores these tensions between the conservation of iconic and yet abundant wildlife, and conflict with people and the various interfaces at which they meet kangaroos. Full article
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Article
Effectiveness and Efficiency of Corral Traps, Drop Nets and Suspended Traps for Capturing Wild Pigs (Sus scrofa)
Animals 2021, 11(6), 1565; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11061565 - 27 May 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 666
Abstract
Strategic control and eradication programs for wild pigs (Sus scrofa) are being developed to help curtail the expanding populations of this invasive, alien species. Drop nets and corral traps have a long history of capturing a multitude of wildlife species, so [...] Read more.
Strategic control and eradication programs for wild pigs (Sus scrofa) are being developed to help curtail the expanding populations of this invasive, alien species. Drop nets and corral traps have a long history of capturing a multitude of wildlife species, so we evaluated the effectiveness and efficiency of these traps for controlling wild pigs in southern Oklahoma. We also developed and evaluated a suspended metal trap that provided real-time monitoring and deployment to capture animals. Effectiveness of each trap type was estimated as the proportion of pigs removed from the total population, whereas efficiency was calculated based on catch per unit effort (CPUE) (i.e., the number of person hours per pig removal). During 3 years of study (2010–2012), we removed 601 pigs, 296 using drop nets, 60 using corral traps, and 245 using suspended traps. Suspended traps removed 88.1% of the estimated population, whereas drop nets removed 85.7% and corral traps removed 48.5%. CPUE was 0.64 person hours/pig using suspended traps followed by 1.9 person hours/pig for drop nets and 2.3 person hours/pig for corral traps. Drop nets and suspended traps were more effective at removing a large proportion of the population (>85%), mainly through whole sounder removal, but the suspended trap with real-time notifications was the most efficient trap type, requiring fewer person hours to operate. Full article
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Communication
Use of European Funds and Ex Post Evaluation of Prevention Measures against Wolf Attacks (Canis lupus italicus) in the Emilia-Romagna Region (Italy)
Animals 2021, 11(6), 1536; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11061536 - 25 May 2021
Viewed by 1409
Abstract
Introduction: Compensation programs are an important tool for mitigating conflicts between farmers and large predators. However, they present significant weaknesses and faults. For years, the EU has been prioritizing programs for the prevention of damage caused by large carnivores, rather than compensation programs, [...] Read more.
Introduction: Compensation programs are an important tool for mitigating conflicts between farmers and large predators. However, they present significant weaknesses and faults. For years, the EU has been prioritizing programs for the prevention of damage caused by large carnivores, rather than compensation programs, introducing compulsory compensation for the purposes of decision EC (2019) 772 of 29/01/19. This manuscript reports the experience with the wolf damage prevention programs in an Italian region, Emilia-Romagna, which implemented a pilot project, adopting a new method to interface with the farmers involved in the prevention programs. Methods: Starting in 2014, a project aimed at spreading prevention measures was financed through regional and European resources, accompanied by resources sharing and technical assistance with breeders from the regional body. In detail, (i) standardized types of intervention were defined and technical assistance was structured; (ii) ex post, the effectiveness of the interventions carried out was assessed; and (iii) the difficulties encountered in using the various financing instruments were analyzed. Results: Overall, 298 farms were analyzed, of which 166 applied for regional calls and 132 applied for European funds. The mitigation measures produced a reduction in predatory phenomena of 93.4%, i.e., from 528 to 35 predations over a period of 4–6 years. This study shows that more than one-third of the farmers were forced to abandon the two tenders, mainly due to the lack of liquidity in anticipating the prevention measures. Conclusion: In the years examined by this study, the prevention programs in the Emilia-Romagna region, due to the technical support offered, proved to be a functional and effective tool, capable of significantly reducing the wolf predation on livestock. However, this work highlights the high percentage of denials of mitigation measures by farmers interested in adopting these tools, stressing the need for regional agencies to focus on new policies that can provide advance economic resources to farmers and solve the authorization problems related to the various bodies with which the participant in the tenders must interface. Full article
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Article
Cost of Coexisting with a Relict Large Carnivore Population: Impact of Apennine Brown Bears, 2005–2015
Animals 2021, 11(5), 1453; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11051453 - 19 May 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 647
Abstract
Human-carnivore conflicts are a major conservation issue. As bears are expanding their range in Europe’s human-modified landscapes, it is increasingly important to understand, prevent, and address human-bear conflicts and evaluate mitigation strategies in areas of historical coexistence. Based on verified claims, we assessed [...] Read more.
Human-carnivore conflicts are a major conservation issue. As bears are expanding their range in Europe’s human-modified landscapes, it is increasingly important to understand, prevent, and address human-bear conflicts and evaluate mitigation strategies in areas of historical coexistence. Based on verified claims, we assessed costs, patterns, and drivers of bear damages in the relict Apennine brown bear population in the Abruzzo Lazio and Molise National Park (PNALM), central Italy. During 2005–2015, 203 ± 71 (SD) damage events were verified annually, equivalent to 75,987 ± 30,038 €/year paid for compensation. Most damages occurred in summer and fall, with livestock depredation, especially sheep and cattle calves, prevailing over other types of damages, with apiaries ranking second in costs of compensation. Transhumant livestock owners were less impacted than residential ones, and farms that adopted prevention measures loaned from the PNALM were less susceptible to bear damages. Livestock farms chronically damaged by bears represented 8 ± 3% of those annually impacted, corresponding to 24 ± 6% of compensation costs. Further improvements in the conflict mitigation policy adopted by the PNALM include integrated prevention, conditional compensation, and participatory processes. We discuss the implications of our study for Human-bear coexistence in broader contexts. Full article
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Article
Human-Wildlife Conflicts in the Southern Yungas: What Role do Raptors Play for Local Settlers?
Animals 2021, 11(5), 1428; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11051428 - 17 May 2021
Viewed by 1209
Abstract
Wildlife persecution due to human-wildlife conflict has become a serious concern for biodiversity conservation, especially for many endangered species. In this context, conservation approaches need to consider the socio-ecological dimensions of each particular situation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the [...] Read more.
Wildlife persecution due to human-wildlife conflict has become a serious concern for biodiversity conservation, especially for many endangered species. In this context, conservation approaches need to consider the socio-ecological dimensions of each particular situation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the existence, extent and social characteristics of Human-Raptor Conflicts (HRC) in the Southern Yungas region in northwestern Argentina. We conducted 115 semi-structured interviews in 21 sites and analyzed attitudes and associations between sociodemographic variables and the existence of HRC. Forty percent of interviewees showed negative attitudes towards raptors, mainly with those species considered livestock predators rather than poultry predators. A total of 11 species were regarded as conflictive because of predation on domestic animals, of which Andean condors showed the highest conflict. The only socio-demographic factor affecting conflicts was livestock and poultry rearing, independently of age, gender and occupation of interviewees. The fact that only 8.7% of interviewees reported taking direct actions towards conflictive species indicates a relatively peaceful coexistence of people with raptors. Nevertheless, negative attitudes towards Andean condor together with their extreme susceptibility to any increase in non-natural mortality indicate the need of an integral conservation approach to tackle future threats for this species’ conservation in the area. Full article
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Article
The Escalating Effects of Wildlife Tourism on Human–Wildlife Conflict
Animals 2021, 11(5), 1378; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11051378 - 12 May 2021
Viewed by 651
Abstract
Human–wildlife conflict is a barrier to achieving sustainable biodiversity conservation and community development in protected areas. Tourism is often regarded as a tool to mitigate such conflict. However, existing studies have mainly adopted a socio-economic perspective to examine the benefits of tourism for [...] Read more.
Human–wildlife conflict is a barrier to achieving sustainable biodiversity conservation and community development in protected areas. Tourism is often regarded as a tool to mitigate such conflict. However, existing studies have mainly adopted a socio-economic perspective to examine the benefits of tourism for communities, neglecting the ecological effects of tourism. This case study of macaque tourism on a peninsula in China illustrates that tourism can escalate rather than mitigate human–wildlife conflict. Fifty-three stakeholders were interviewed and secondary data were collected to understand the development of rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) tourism and community–macaque conflict. The results show that food provision and tourist–macaque interactions rapidly increased the macaques’ population, habituation, and aggressive behaviors, which led them to invade the surrounding community more often and exacerbated human–macaque conflict. Meanwhile, low community participation in tourism generated few benefits for residents and did not help alter residents’ hostile attitudes towards the macaques. Local residents gradually retreated from agriculture as the macaques became more intrusive. A holistic approach to evaluating the role of wildlife tourism in resolving community–wildlife conflict is proposed and practical suggestions for alleviating such conflict are given. Full article
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Article
Management Models Applied to the Human-Wolf Conflict in Agro-Forestry-Pastoral Territories of Two Italian Protected Areas and One Spanish Game Area
Animals 2021, 11(4), 1141; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11041141 - 16 Apr 2021
Viewed by 476
Abstract
Our work shows that, despite the persistence of persecutory actions, conservation activity has proved successful for the return of numerous wild mammals to different habitats, including the wolf. The human-wolf conflict is still described in all countries where the wolf is present. This [...] Read more.
Our work shows that, despite the persistence of persecutory actions, conservation activity has proved successful for the return of numerous wild mammals to different habitats, including the wolf. The human-wolf conflict is still described in all countries where the wolf is present. This is evidenced by the high number of damages on livestock, and the corpses of wolves found both in protected areas and in those where hunting is permitted. The diagnosis of road accidents, together with poisoning and poaching, are major causes of mortality. Although hunting records the highest percentage of kills in Spain, the demographic stability reported by the censuses suggests that this activity does not have a consistent influence on the Iberian wolf population’s survival. In Italy, where wolf hunting is prohibited, wolf populations are to be increasing. In some Italian situations, wolf attacks on horses seem to cause unwanted damage to foals, but they represent a very precious source of information about the habits of carnivores. A simple management plan would be sufficient to help the coexistence between the productive parts and the ecosystem services ensured by the presence of the wolf. The presence of hybrids is a negative factor. Full article
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Article
Quantification of the Starling Population, Estimation and Mapping of the Damage to Olive Crops in the Apulia Region
Animals 2021, 11(4), 1119; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11041119 - 14 Apr 2021
Viewed by 589
Abstract
The presence of wildlife in areas with a high concentration of farming activities can create a conflict between conservation objectives and productive purposes. Near Brindisi (Apulia, S-E Italy), a substantial amount of cash compensation claims for damages reported by local farmers and attributed [...] Read more.
The presence of wildlife in areas with a high concentration of farming activities can create a conflict between conservation objectives and productive purposes. Near Brindisi (Apulia, S-E Italy), a substantial amount of cash compensation claims for damages reported by local farmers and attributed to starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) has been registered. The aim of this study was to quantify the starling population wintering in the Apulia region, in order to assess the potential damage to crop production caused by this species. Our analysis was conducted over three years and included three main activities: a study of starling abundance and movements, the identification of areas and crops affected by damages, and a determination of the damage to the agricultural system in terms of quantity and concentration (heatmap). The study showed a loss of expected production that was coherent with the eating capacity of starlings wintering in the region. This means a loss, in terms of gross profitable production, of around 550,000 euros concentrated in a few narrow areas close to the roosts. Results on species behavior, damage quantification, and mapping are useful elements aimed to activate trade-off measures to preserve production and protection objectives, and to allow policymakers to address enforcement interventions and to establish parameters for financial compensation. Full article
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Article
How Tourist Preference and Satisfaction Can Contribute to Improved Welfare Standards at Elephant Tourism Venues in Thailand
Animals 2021, 11(4), 1094; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11041094 - 12 Apr 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 804
Abstract
Consumer satisfaction and preference can be integral in influencing and solidifying change in user-driven industries such as tourism. High satisfaction rates are imperative to the continual success of a venue as satisfaction determines the likelihood of repeat business and positive recommendations to friends, [...] Read more.
Consumer satisfaction and preference can be integral in influencing and solidifying change in user-driven industries such as tourism. High satisfaction rates are imperative to the continual success of a venue as satisfaction determines the likelihood of repeat business and positive recommendations to friends, family and online review forums. Tourist preference for ecocentric tourism venues, over anthropocentric ones, appears to be increasing in elephant tourism venues (ETVs) in Thailand. To explore this, we visited twelve ETVs in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and compared the preferences and satisfaction of tourists who visited riding and non-riding venues toward the use of captive elephants in an entertainment setting. We found that tourists visited riding and non-riding ETVs for similar reasons, primarily due to recommendations from friends and reviews, and because the venue had a good reputation. Tourist preference for higher welfare standards was observed at venues where participants directly observed poor treatment of the elephants. Tourist satisfaction may be impacted by higher elephant welfare standards; therefore, tourists have the ability to influence the elephant tourism industry by demanding better living conditions for elephants and only financially supporting ETVs with higher welfare standards. Full article
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Article
Panthera tigris jacksoni Population Crash and Impending Extinction due to Environmental Perturbation and Human-Wildlife Conflict
Animals 2021, 11(4), 1032; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11041032 - 06 Apr 2021
Viewed by 716
Abstract
The critically endangered Malayan tiger (Panthera tigris jacksoni), with an estimated population of less than 200 individuals left in isolated rainforest habitats in Malaysia, is in an intermediate population crash leading to extinction in the next decade. The population has decreased significantly [...] Read more.
The critically endangered Malayan tiger (Panthera tigris jacksoni), with an estimated population of less than 200 individuals left in isolated rainforest habitats in Malaysia, is in an intermediate population crash leading to extinction in the next decade. The population has decreased significantly by illegal poaching, environmental perturbation, roadkill, and being captured during human–wildlife conflicts. Forty-five or more individuals were extracted from the wild (four animals captured due to conflict, one death due to canine distemper, one roadkilled, and 39 poached) in the 12 years between 2008–2019. The Malayan tigers are the first wildlife species to test positive for COVID-19 and are subject to the Canine Distemper Virus. These anthropogenic disturbances (poaching and human–tiger conflict) and environmental perturbation (decreasing habitat coverage and quality) have long been identified as impending extinction factors. Roadkill and infectious diseases have emerged recently as new confounding factors threatening Malayan tiger extinction in the near future. Peninsular Malaysia has an existing Malayan tiger conservation management plan; however, to enhance the protection and conservation of Malayan tigers from potential extinction, the authority should reassess the existing legislation, regulation, and management plan and realign them to prevent further population decline, and to better enable preparedness and readiness for the ongoing pandemic and future threats. Full article
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Review
Spatio-Temporal Patterns and Consequences of Road Kills: A Review
Animals 2021, 11(3), 799; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11030799 - 12 Mar 2021
Viewed by 665
Abstract
The development and expansion of road networks have profoundly impacted the natural landscape and various life forms. Animals are affected by these roads in a myriad of ways, none as devastating as road mortalities. This article reviews the literature on the magnitude, spatiotemporal [...] Read more.
The development and expansion of road networks have profoundly impacted the natural landscape and various life forms. Animals are affected by these roads in a myriad of ways, none as devastating as road mortalities. This article reviews the literature on the magnitude, spatiotemporal patterns, factors, and consequences of Animal-Vehicle Collisions (AVCs) and the subsequent road kills. Furthermore, the review paper briefly outlines the relationship between roads and animals in the surrounding landscape and later examines the nature and impacts of AVCs. This article evaluates the statistics on the number of road kills and a critical analysis of the spatiotemporal patterns of these mortalities is also evaluated. Subsequently, the review paper examines current mitigation measures and the challenges impeding their success. The paper then concludes with an evaluation of geospatial tools (GIS) and other technologies used in road kill studies. The relevant findings of this paper are that, (1) factors influencing road kill patterns interact with one another; (2) AVCs have serious environmental, economic and social consequences; (3) road kill mitigation strategies suffer several challenges hindering their success; and (4) specific geospatial tools and other technologies have been utilised in assessing AVC road kill patterns. The review, therefore, recommends including overall road kill clusters of all animals in mortality surveys, increasing the spatial coverage of road kill observations, consistent surveying, sufficient research on nighttime driving distances and speed, utilising citizen science in all road mortality studies and incorporating GIS into all apps used for recording road kills. An increased sufficiency in road kill data coupled with improved technologies can enable more effective mitigation strategies to prevent AVCs. Full article
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Article
High-Tech Training for Birds of Prey
Animals 2021, 11(2), 530; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11020530 - 18 Feb 2021
Viewed by 1522
Abstract
Raptors are some of the most at-risk groups of birds in the world and saving these top predators is essential for maintaining the health of many ecosystems. After hospitalization, raptors are often released when muscular recovery is still unfitting when they are unable [...] Read more.
Raptors are some of the most at-risk groups of birds in the world and saving these top predators is essential for maintaining the health of many ecosystems. After hospitalization, raptors are often released when muscular recovery is still unfitting when they are unable to hunt efficiently and are at risk of dying from starvation within a few days. On the other hand, if a convalescent bird is trained with the only use of classic falconry techniques, it is likely to remain dependent on the caretaker/falconer even long after the release, so unable to hunt independently. To overcome these problems, a new training method was conceived, which could improve raptors’ muscular strength while limiting habituation to humans. This has been possible due to the combination of classic falconry techniques and modern technologies, such as the introduction of specific workouts with drones. Three falconry raptors and one wild Eurasian hobby were trained through high-tech falconry to develop the ability to catch, grasp, and airlift their prey at a different speed, altitude, and resistance. The main findings of this study were: (i) The rapid increase of the raptors’ speed; (ii) the muscular growth and endurance, and (iii) successful reintroduction of a wild bird. Full article
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Review
European Starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) as Vectors and Reservoirs of Pathogens Affecting Humans and Domestic Livestock
Animals 2021, 11(2), 466; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11020466 - 10 Feb 2021
Viewed by 745
Abstract
European starlings are an abundant, widespread avian species frequently found in close association with human development and agriculture. The ability of starlings to carry and disperse pathogens of humans and domesticated livestock has received considerable attention, including studies of enteric bacteria, viruses, and [...] Read more.
European starlings are an abundant, widespread avian species frequently found in close association with human development and agriculture. The ability of starlings to carry and disperse pathogens of humans and domesticated livestock has received considerable attention, including studies of enteric bacteria, viruses, and some fungi. To investigate the importance of European starlings as disease vectors, I reviewed and assessed the available literature, comprising several hundred published papers. Although a wide variety of potential pathogens have been reported in starlings, the strongest evidence suggests that they may be responsible for harboring and dispersing some species of enteric bacteria, with Escherichia coli and Campylobacter jejuni of perhaps greatest interest, and primarily in the context of dairies, concentrated animal feeding operations, and other intensive livestock agriculture. Full article
Article
Design and Psychometric Properties of the BAtSS: A New Tool to Assess Attitudes towards Bats
Animals 2021, 11(2), 244; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11020244 - 20 Jan 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1077
Abstract
Despite the benefits that bats offer the ecosystem, these animals are feared and attacked. The COVID-19 pandemic has aggravated this situation. Today there is an urgent need to address the human-bat conflict to develop conservation policies. Understanding peoples’ attitudes towards bats are critical [...] Read more.
Despite the benefits that bats offer the ecosystem, these animals are feared and attacked. The COVID-19 pandemic has aggravated this situation. Today there is an urgent need to address the human-bat conflict to develop conservation policies. Understanding peoples’ attitudes towards bats are critical for this process. This study aimed to design the Bats Attitudes Standard Scale (BAtSS) and to analyze its psychometric properties. We developed an initial version of the scale in which we established the content validity; we analyzed the items and structure in a pilot sample. In the next phase, we examined psychometric properties in a sample of 1639 Chileans. The final BAtSS consists of 34 Likert-type items configured in an oblique-hierarchical structure of four factors (scientistic, positivistic, negativistic, and myths) and three facets (emotional negativistic, behavioral negativistic, and cognitive negativistic). It presents adequate internal consistency, and the analysis of concurrent validity confirms the scale’s capacity to discriminate between groups. Women and participants with a lower level of education are more negativistic and less positivistic. People with a higher level of education have a less mythological view of bats. We also analyzed the items under the assumptions of item response theory (IRT). Full article
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Article
Biological Sound vs. Anthropogenic Noise: Assessment of Behavioural Changes in Scyliorhinus canicula Exposed to Boats Noise
Animals 2021, 11(1), 174; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11010174 - 13 Jan 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1117
Abstract
Despite the growing interest in human-made noise effects on marine wildlife, few studies have investigated the potential role of underwater noise on elasmobranch species. In this study, twelve specimens of small-spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula) were exposed to biological and anthropogenic sounds [...] Read more.
Despite the growing interest in human-made noise effects on marine wildlife, few studies have investigated the potential role of underwater noise on elasmobranch species. In this study, twelve specimens of small-spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula) were exposed to biological and anthropogenic sounds in order to assess their behavioural changes in response to prey acoustic stimuli and to different amplitude levels of shipping noise. The sharks, individually held in aquariums, were exposed to four experimental acoustic conditions characterized by different spectral (Hz) components and amplitude (dB re 1 µPa) levels. The swimming behaviour and spatial distribution of sharks were observed. The results highlighted significant differences in swimming time and in the spatial use of the aquarium among the experimental conditions. When the amplitude levels of biological sources were higher than those of anthropogenic sources, the sharks’ swimming behaviour was concentrated in the bottom sections of the aquarium; when the amplitude levels of anthropogenic sources were higher than biological ones, the specimens increased the time spent swimming. Moreover, their spatial distribution highlighted a tendency to occupy the least noisy sections of the aquarium. In conclusion, this study highlighted that anthropogenic noise is able to affect behaviour of catshark specimens and the impact depends on acoustic amplitude levels. Full article
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2020

Jump to: 2021

Review
Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS)-Based Wildlife Detection: A Review and Case Studies in Maritime Antarctica
Animals 2020, 10(12), 2387; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10122387 - 14 Dec 2020
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 999
Abstract
In wildlife biology, it is important to conduct efficient observations and quantitative monitoring of wild animals. Conventional wildlife monitoring mainly relies on direct field observations by the naked eyes or through binoculars, on-site image acquisition at fixed spots, and sampling or capturing under [...] Read more.
In wildlife biology, it is important to conduct efficient observations and quantitative monitoring of wild animals. Conventional wildlife monitoring mainly relies on direct field observations by the naked eyes or through binoculars, on-site image acquisition at fixed spots, and sampling or capturing under severe areal constraints. Recently, remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS), also called drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), were successfully applied to detect wildlife with imaging sensors, such as RGB and thermal-imaging sensors, with superior detection capabilities to those of human observation. Here, we review studies with RPAS which has been increasingly used in wildlife detection and explain how an RPAS-based high-resolution RGB image can be applied to wild animal studies from the perspective of individual detection and population surveys as well as behavioral studies. The applicability of thermal-imaging sensors was also assessed with further information extractable from image analyses. In addition, RPAS-based case studies of acquisition of high-resolution RGB images for the purpose of detecting southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina) and shape property extraction using thermal-imaging sensor in King George Island, maritime Antarctica is presented as applications in an extreme environment. The case studies suggest that currently available cost-effective small-sized RPAS, which are capable of flexible operation and mounting miniaturized imaging sensors, and are easily maneuverable even from an inflatable boat, can be an effective and supportive technique for both the visual interpretation and quantitative analysis of wild animals in low-accessible extreme or maritime environments. Full article
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Commentary
Human–Animal Interactions in Zoos: What Can Compassionate Conservation, Conservation Welfare and Duty of Care Tell Us about the Ethics of Interacting, and Avoiding Unintended Consequences?
Animals 2020, 10(11), 2037; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10112037 - 04 Nov 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2379
Abstract
Human–animal interactions (HAIs) in zoos can be rewarding for both humans and animals, but can also be fraught with ethical and welfare perils. Contact with animals can be beneficial for all parties involved, and can indeed lead to pro-conservation and respect for nature [...] Read more.
Human–animal interactions (HAIs) in zoos can be rewarding for both humans and animals, but can also be fraught with ethical and welfare perils. Contact with animals can be beneficial for all parties involved, and can indeed lead to pro-conservation and respect for nature behaviours being adopted by humans after so-called “profound experiences” of connecting or interacting with animals. Yet, human–animal interactions may also increase certain individuals’ desires for inappropriate wild-animal ‘pet’ ownership, and can convey a false sense of acceptability of exploiting animals for “cheap titillation”. Indeed, this has been reflected in a recent research review conducted on animal–visitor interactions in zoos from a number of different countries and global regions. These are unintended consequences that ”modern, ethical zoos” would try to minimise, or avoid completely where possible, though most zoos still offer close-contact experiences with their animals. Three ethical frameworks that may be beneficial for ethically run zoos to incorporate when considering human–animal interactions are: Compassionate Conservation, Conservation Welfare and Duty of Care. These three ethical frameworks are concerned with the welfare state and outcomes for individual animals, not just the population or species. Human–animal interactions in zoos may be acceptable in many circumstances and may be beneficial to both animal and human participants; however, they must be closely monitored through welfare tracking tools. The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) has published guidelines for human–animal interactions that are mandatory for member institutions to adhere to, although whether these guidelines are taken as mandatory or suggestions at individual institutions is unknown. Some suggestions for relevant extensions to the guidelines are suggested herein. Melding Duty of Care and the two Conservation ethical frameworks would be ideal for assessing the ethical acceptability of such interactions as they currently occur, and for considering how they should be modified to occur (or not) into the future in zoological settings. Full article
Article
Dilemmas in the Management of Liminal Rodents—Attitudes of Dutch Pest Controllers
Animals 2020, 10(9), 1614; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10091614 - 09 Sep 2020
Viewed by 1151
Abstract
When non-human animals are labeled as ‘pests’, their moral status and welfare seem relatively unimportant. In a multi-stakeholder project, we develop an assessment frame for a more responsible rodent management that includes animal welfare. An online survey among 129 Dutch pest controllers was [...] Read more.
When non-human animals are labeled as ‘pests’, their moral status and welfare seem relatively unimportant. In a multi-stakeholder project, we develop an assessment frame for a more responsible rodent management that includes animal welfare. An online survey among 129 Dutch pest controllers was carried out in order to find out more about pest controllers’ attitudes about animal welfare. Respondents indicate to consider animal welfare in their job. They see differences in the welfare impact of different rodent control methods. A dilemma may occur when methods with a high impact, such as rodenticides, are ofttimes used in practice. Respondents also indicate that in different real-life scenarios (the hospital kitchen vs. the private backyard), a different weight may be attributed to the importance of animal welfare. Almost half of the respondents encounter difficulties when weighing animals against human interests. The problems are mainly related to clients who are not willing to invest sufficient money in preventive methods, where respondents do believe in. Some differences were found between respondents depending on membership of a professional association for pest controllers. The results of this study are relevant input for focus groups with pest controllers and their clients and for the development of the aforementioned assessment frame. Full article
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Article
Characterization of Birdwatching Demand Using a Logit Approach: Comparative Analysis of Source Markets (National vs. Foreign)
Animals 2020, 10(6), 965; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10060965 - 02 Jun 2020
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 802
Abstract
Birdwatching is a tourism activity that relates closely to protected natural spaces and that helps contribute to the balance between economic, social and environmental aspects of sustainability. In some European countries (the United Kingdom, Germany, Holland), this recreational activity has a large number [...] Read more.
Birdwatching is a tourism activity that relates closely to protected natural spaces and that helps contribute to the balance between economic, social and environmental aspects of sustainability. In some European countries (the United Kingdom, Germany, Holland), this recreational activity has a large number of followers, making it a new segment of tourist demand with great possibilities for growth. The objective of this study is to identify the main characteristics of the demand for birdwatching in one of the European territories having a high resource supply, as is the case with Extremadura (Spain). To do this, a logit modelization has been proposed in order to estimate the probability of going birdwatching in the region, based on a random sample of over 3000 tourists that visited the region in 2017. This characterization of birdwatching demand was carried out using variables such as gender, age, type of travel, type of lodging, and assessment of tourism services. Given that the national and the foreign demand of this tourism modality may present distinct behaviors, and therefore, specific characterizations, a structural change test (Chow test) was also conducted in order to determine to what extent these two segments of demand, based on the source markets, have (or do not have) distinguishing features. Full article
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Article
Lions Panthera leo Prefer Killing Certain Cattle Bos taurus Types
Animals 2020, 10(4), 692; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10040692 - 16 Apr 2020
Viewed by 2682
Abstract
Lion predation on cattle causes severe human–wildlife conflict that results in retaliatory persecution throughout the lion’s geographic range. Cattle closely resemble the body size, shape, and herding patterns of preferred lion prey species. We studied cattle depredation patterns in Botswana’s Okavango Delta and [...] Read more.
Lion predation on cattle causes severe human–wildlife conflict that results in retaliatory persecution throughout the lion’s geographic range. Cattle closely resemble the body size, shape, and herding patterns of preferred lion prey species. We studied cattle depredation patterns in Botswana’s Okavango Delta and tested whether lions exhibited specific preferences based on cattle demographic characteristics (sex and age), as well as morphological traits (body mass, horn length, and pelage patterns). We also tested whether human disturbance of kills influenced lion energy intake and whether depredation circumstances influenced loss levels. Lions predominantly killed cattle at night (87.1%) and exhibited no preference for either sex. Overall, bulls and calves were most preferred, whereas heifers were significantly avoided, as were cattle with uniform colour patterns. Cattle with mottled pelage patterns were most preferred, especially among free-roaming herds. Preferences were context-specific, with lions preferring inexperienced calves during enclosure attacks (including multiple cases of surplus killing) and free-roaming bulls and oxen. About 13% of adult cattle had no horns, and these were preferentially targeted by lions, while cattle with short horns were killed in accordance with their availability and long horned cattle were highly avoided. The contemporary morphology of Tswana cattle that resulted from unnatural selective pressures during domestication does not offer effective antipredatory protection. Human disturbance of feeding soon after kills occurred reduced cattle carcass consumption by >40% (or about 30 kg per carcass per lion). Lions killed significantly more cattle in nonfortified enclosures than in the veldt, although this was influenced by surplus killing. Our results suggest that cattle predation by lions is driven by availability and cavalier husbandry practices, coupled with morphological features associated with facilitating easy husbandry. Cattle no longer exhibit the key features that enabled their ancestors to coexist with large predators and are now reliant upon humans to perform critical antipredator activities. Hence, the responsibility for mitigating human–wildlife conflict involving lions and cattle lies with people in either breeding traits that minimise predation or adequately protecting their cattle. Full article
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Planned Papers

The below list represents only planned manuscripts. Some of these manuscripts have not been received by the Editorial Office yet. Papers submitted to MDPI journals are subject to peer-review.

Title: Effects of tourism on the habitat use of a big threatened rodent at a World Heritage Site
Authors: Carlos E. Borghi
Affiliation: 1 INTERBIODES (Interacciones Biológicas del Desierto), Facultad Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de San Juan, San Juan J5400ARL, Argentina 2 CIGEOBIO, UNSJ-CONICET (Centro de Investigaciones de la Geósfera y Biósfera, Universidad Nacional de San Juan–Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas), San Juan J5400ARL, Argentina
Abstract: We are thinking of writing a manuscript about "Effects of tourism on the habitat use of a big threatened rodent at a World Heritage Site".

Title: Lions Panthera leo Prefer Killing Certain Cattle Bos taurus Types
Authors: Florian J. Weise; Mathata Tomeletso; Andrew B. Stein; Michael J. Somers; Matt W. Hayward
Affiliation: Conservation Biology Research Group University of Newcastle
Abstract: Lion predation on cattle causes severe human-wildlife conflict that results in retaliatory persecution throughout the lion’s geographic range. Cattle closely resemble the body size, shape and herding patterns of preferred lion prey. We studied cattle depredation patterns in Botswana’s Okavango Delta and determined whether lions exhibited specific preferences based on cattle demographic characteristics (sex and age), as well as morphological traits (body mass, horn length and pelage patterns). We also asked whether human disturbance of kills influenced lion energy intake and whether depredation circumstances influenced loss levels. Lions exhibited no preference for either cattle sex. Overall, bulls and calves were most preferred, whereas heifers were significantly avoided, as were cattle with uniform colouration patterns. Cattle with mottled pelage patterns were most preferred. About 13% of adult cattle had no horns, and these were preferentially targeted by lions, while cattle with short horns were killed in accordance with their availability and long horned cattle were highly avoided. The contemporary morphology of Tswana cattle that resulted from unnatural selective pressures during domestication does not offer effective anti-predatory protection. Human disturbance of feeding soon after kills occurred reduced cattle carcass consumption by >40% (or about 30 kg per carcass per lion). Lions killed significantly more cattle in non-fortified enclosures than in the veldt, although this was influenced by surplus killing. Our results suggest that cattle predation by lions is driven by availability and cavalier husbandry practices, coupled with morphological features associated with facilitating easy husbandry. Cattle no longer exhibit the key features that enabled their ancestors to coexist with large predators and are now reliant upon humans to perform critical anti-predator activities. Hence, the responsibility for mitigating human-wildlife conflict involving lions and cattle lies with people in either breeding traits that minimise predation or adequately protecting their cattle.

Title: Comparison of the perceived (pre-visit) and actual (post-visit) living conditions at elephant tourism venues in Thailand.
Authors: Emily Flower
Affiliation: Australia
Abstract: Animal welfare in wildlife tourism is an important area of discussion both within and beyond academic literature as tourists are increasingly observant and critical of captive animals’ health and well-being. The use of terms generally associated with facilities which aim to contribute to animal protection, such as ‘sanctuary’ or ‘haven’, are common in names of wildlife tourism attractions. However, lack of regulation regarding the use of such names in Thailand allows venues to attract well-meaning welfare-conscious tourists to visit their venue. This is common for elephant tourism venues (ETVs) where, regardless of their name, the quality of care provided to the elephants varies drastically. This study involved the collection of data before and during a visit to 12 ETVs. Venues were assigned pre- and post-visit scores based on the elephants’ perceived and actual living conditions which were used to create welfare scales for the 12 ETVs. This study highlights the range in the quality of care provided to captive elephants in tourism venues and reveals the potential disparity between tourists’ expectations and their actual experience at these venues due to inaccurate information promoted by the ETVs.

Title: Human-Elephant Conflict Mitigation, and Co-existence Methods of Asian and African Elephants Similarities and Differences
Authors: Muhammed Mikail, TA Tengku Rinalfi Putra, Hasliza Abu Hassim & Azlan B C
Affiliation: 1. Wildlife Research Centre, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, UPM Serdang Selangor Malaysia 2 Department of Veterinary Preclinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, UPM Serdang Selangor Malaysia. 3 Department of Veterinary clinical studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, UPM Serdang Selangor Malaysia.
Abstract: Elephants are recognized as the only known largest charismatic terrestrial mega-herbivore, and the important role they played in the maintenance of healthy ecosystem, the religious belief holds by different faith as well as ecotourism. Their conservation status as declared by the international union for conservation of nature is endangered due to conflict with humans. Human-elephant conflict occurs due to habitat loss and fragmentation as a result of which interaction between humans and elephants occurs thereby resulting to exhibition of crop raiding behavior by the elephants, destruction of properties, as well as loss of human lives, Hence classifying them as agricultural pest and subsequently been killed by affected communities or farmers. However diet availability and nutritional preference are known to determine the movement pattern of both Asian and African wild elephants since they are mixed feeders. Understanding the elephant foraging behavior and pattern is important and will offer best way of mitigating human-elephant conflict to bring about Human elephant interaction for a successful elephant conservation. This review highlighted the current knowledge on Human-elephant conflict mitigation method in Asian Elephant of Peninsular Malaysia and compared with the Mitigation Methods of African Elephants similarities and difference Keywords: African Elephant; Asian Elephant; Human-Elephant Conflict; Elephant co-existence; Elephant Foraging Behavior, Diet and Nutritional disorders

Title: the possibility of recovering wild birds of prey through a more modern and high-tech falconry.
Authors: Pia Lucidi
Affiliation: Prof. Pia Lucidi
Abstract: The content of the article - although we are in a first phase of data collection - is already significant. In fact, even some raptors of falconry, trained with this method, respond better and more quickly to training. I believe that our small contribution (three falconry raptors and one reintroduced wild raptor) is consistent with the editorial line of "Protection of animals and restoration of endangered and threatened species". This is a case study. We are currently continuing the experiments by transforming the current drone model for even more realistic simulations: fake prey fleeing raptors in such a realistic flight that it becomes exceedingly difficult to capture. This could become a powerful test for deciding whether a bird of prey is really healed after a hospitalization.

Title: Panthera tigris jacksoni Population Crash and Impending Extinction due to Enviromental Perturbation and Human Wildlife Conflict.
Authors: Dennis Ten Choon Yung 1,2; Mohd Tajuddin Abdullah 3,4; Sivananthan Elagupillay 5; Mat Naim Ramli 6; Rohana Jani 2; Noor Hashida Hashim 2.
Affiliation: 1. Department of Wildlife and National Parks, Kuantan, Pahang 2. Universiti of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 3. Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia (corresponding author) 4. Academy of Sciences, Kuala Lumpur Malaysia 5. c/o Department of Wildlife and National Parks, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 6. Zoo Negara, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Abstract: With an estimated of 80 individuals left in isolated rain forest habitats in Malaysia, the critically endangered Malayan tiger (Panthera tigris jacksoni) is in the intermediate population crash leading to extinction in the next decade. Within about seven decades of persecution and habitat loss, the population experiencing rapid decline from about 3,000 tigers in 1950s down to 80 animals in 2020. The Malayan tiger species is hunted to feed the global illegal and money-spinning business in the traditional Chinese medicine and pelt as status symbol in eastern culture. In the HWC contextual, the tiger will be killed and generation of negative perceptions among the public and NGOs. We screened documents and published information from indexed journals, in Web of Sciences and Scopus databases, as well as available reports in other media. We analyse the anthropogenic activities on the tropical lowland habitats, impact of HWC, and roles of captive breeding and provide new insights for future global strategies for the management and perpetual conservation of this majestic critically endangered species for our next generation. Keywords: Malayan tiger, Critically endangered species, anthropogenic, Pahang, Malaysia Corresponding author email: [email protected] Corresponding author webpage links: https://publons.com/researcher/1586149/mohd-tajuddin-abdullah/ https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9592-9722 https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Mohd_Tajuddin_Abdullah https://terengganu.academia.edu/MohdTajuddinAbdullahPhDFASc https://scholar.google.com.my/citations?user=ylnvJSAAAAAJ&hl=en https://www.springer.com/gp/book/9783319922638 Kenyir Lake Landscapes https://www.springer.com/gp/book/9783030649609 Resource Use and Sustainability of Orang Asli https://www.amazon.com/Kelestarian-Masyarakat-Terengganu-Sustainability-Community/dp/9670962234 https://www.amazon.com/SYARAHAN-INAUGURAL-UMT-BIOGEOGRAFI-BIOGEOGRAPHY/dp/9670962110

Title: Human-raptor conflicts in the Yungas from Northwestern Argentina.
Authors: Amira Salom; María Eugenia Suárez; Cecilia Andrea Destefano; Joaquín Cereghetti; Félix Hernán Vargas; Juan Manuel Grande
Affiliation: Laboratorio de Ecología y Conservación de Vida Silvestre, Centro Austral de Investigaciones Científicas (CADIC-CONICET), Bernardo Houssay 200, 9410 Ushuaia.
Abstract: Wildlife persecution due to Human-Wildlife conflict has become a serious concern for biodiversity conservation, especially for many endangered species. In this context, conservation approaches need to consider the socio-ecological dimensions of each particular situation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the existence, extent and social characteristics of Human-Raptor Conflicts (HRC) in the Yungas from northwestern Argentina. We conducted 115 semi-structured interviews in 21 sites and analyzed attitudes and associations between sociodemographic variables and the existence of HRC. Forty percent of interviewees showed negative attitudes towards raptors, mainly with those species considered livestock predators rather than poultry predators. A total of 11 species were regarded as conflictive because of predation on domestic animals, of which Andean condors showed the highest conflict. The only socio-demographic factor affecting conflicts was “livestock and poultry rearing”, independently of age, gender and occupation of interviewees. The fact that only 8,7% of interviewees reported taking direct actions towards conflictive species indicate a relatively peaceful coexistence of people with raptors. Nevertheless, negative attitudes towards Andean condor together with their extreme susceptibility to any increase in non-natural mortality indicate the need of an integral conservation approach to tackle future threats for this species conservation in the area.

Title: The perils of being populous: conflict and conservation with abundant kangaroo species.
Authors: David B Croft
Affiliation: School of Biological Earth and Environmental Sciences, UNSW Sydney, NSW 2052 Australia.
Abstract: Australia’s first people managed landscapes for kangaroo species as important elements of their diet, accoutrements and ceremony. This developed and persisted for about 65,000 years. The second wave of colonists from the United Kingdom, Ireland and many subsequent countries introduced familiar domesticated livestock and have imposed their agricultural practices on the same landscapes since 1788. This heralded an ongoing era of management against kangaroos that are perceived as competitors to livestock and unwanted consumers of crops. Even so a kangaroo image remains the iconic identifier of Australia. Kangaroo management is shrouded in dogma and propaganda and creates a tension along a loose rural-city divide. This divide is further dissected by the promotion of the consumption of kangaroo products as an ecological good marred by valid concerns about hygiene and animal welfare. In the last decade the fervour to suppress and micro-manage populations of some kangaroo species has mounted. This includes suppression within protected areas that have generally been considered as safe havens. This review explores these tensions between conservation of iconic and yet abundant wildlife, and conflict with people and the various interfaces at which they meet kangaroos.

Title: Anthropogenic and environmental factors determining local favourable conditions for wolves during the cold season
Authors: Paolo Viola; Settimio Adriani; Carlo Maria Rossi; Cinzia Franceschini; Riccardo Primi; Marco Apollonio; Andrea Amici
Affiliation: Tuscia University, Department of agriculture and forest science
Abstract: We studied the characteristics of response site of elicited wolf howling during winter. The aim of this study was to assess differences in, i) human-related effects, ii) wildlife management, iii) habitat characteristics and topography in wolf response sites. We planned a wolf-howling survey in winter following a standardised approach. The study covered an Apennine area of 500 km2 belonging to the Salto Cicolano mountains (Central Italy). A hexagonal meshes was imposed on the area to determine the value of different variables at local scale. A logistic LASSO regression was performed (R function glmnet) because the dependent variable is dichotomous. Winter Response Sites are positively related to the presence of conifer woods (odds = 1.028), protected areas (odds = 1.014), wild boar drive hunting areas (odds = 1.015), and time elapsed since the last hunt (odds = 1.019). The response sites locations are negatively related to urban areas (odds = 0.873), cultivated lands (odds = 0.946), chestnut cultivation (odds = 0.846), stray dogs reply to acoustic stimulation (odds = 0.207).

Title: The escalating effects of wildlife tourism on human–wildlife conflict
Authors: Qingming Cui
Affiliation: School of Tourism Management, South China Normal University, China
Abstract: Human–wildlife conflict is a barrier to achieving sustainable biodiversity conservation and community development in protected areas. Tourism is often regarded as a tool to mitigate such conflict. However, existing studies have mainly adopted a socio-economic perspective to examine the benefits of tourism for communities, neglecting the ecological effects of tourism. This case study of macaque tourism on a peninsula in China illustrates that tourism can escalate rather than mitigate human–wildlife conflict. Fifty-three stakeholders were interviewed and secondary data were collected to understand the development of macaque tourism and community–macaque conflict. The results show that food provision and tourist–macaque interactions rapidly increased the macaques’ population, habituation, and aggressive behaviours, which led them to invade the surrounding community more often and exacerbated human–macaque conflict. Meanwhile, low community participation in tourism generated few benefits for residents and did not help alter residents’ hostile attitudes towards the macaques. Local residents gradually retreated from agriculture as the macaques became more intrusive. A holistic approach to evaluating the role of wildlife tourism in resolving community–wildlife conflict is proposed and practical suggestions for alleviating such conflict are given. Keywords: macaque tourism, food provision, human–wildlife conflict, community development, ecological compensation, China

Title: Use Of European Funds and Ex-post Evaluation of Prevention Measures against Wolf Attacks (Canis Lupus Italicus) In the Emilia-Romagna Region (Italy)
Authors: Duccio Berzi; Jacopo Cerri; Carmela Musto; Maria Luisa Zanni
Affiliation: Ischetus scrl, Viale Ugo Bassi 6/r, Florence, Italy
Abstract: Introduction: Compensation programs were an important tool for mitigating conflicts between farmers and large predators. However, they presented significant weaknesses and faults. For years, the EU has been asking to give priority to programs for the prevention of damage caused by large carnivores, rather than to compensation ones, introducing compulsory compensation for the purposes of the decision (decision EC (2019) 772 of 29/01/19). This manuscript reports the experience of the wolf damage prevention programs in an Italian region, Emilia-Romagna, which has implemented a pilot project, adopting a new way to interface with the farmers involved in the prevention programs. Methods: Starting from 2014, a project aimed at spreading prevention measures was financed through regional and European resources, accompanied by a path of sharing and technical assistance with breeders from the regional body. In detail, (i) standardized types of intervention were defined and technical assistance was structured, (ii) ex post the effectiveness of the interventions carried out was assessed, (iii) the difficulties encountered in using the various financing instruments were analyzed. Results: Overall, 298 farms were analyzed, of these 166 applied for regional calls and 132 companies applied for European funds. The mitigation measures saw a reduction in predatory phenomena of 93.4%, i.e. from 528 to 35 predations over a period of 4-6 years. This study shows that more than 1/3 of the farmers were forced to give up the two tenders, mainly due to the lack of liquidity in anticipating the prevention measures. Conclusion: In the years examined by this study, the prevention programs in the Emilia-Romagna region, thanks to the technical support offered, proved to be a functional and effective tool, capable of significantly affecting the phenomenon of wolf predation on livestock. However, this work highlighted the high percentage of denials to mitigation measures by farmers interested in adopting these tools, stressing the need for regional agencies to focus on new policies that can give in advance economic resources to farmers and solve the problems of an authorization nature, relating to the various bodies with which the participant in the tenders must interface.

Title: Cost of coexisting with a relict large carnivore population: impact of Apennine brown bears, 2005−2015
Authors: Andrea Galluzzi; Valerio Donfrancesco; Gianluca Mastrantonio; Cinzia Sulli; Paolo Ciucci
Affiliation: Dept. Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Rome La Sapienza
Abstract: Human-carnivore conflicts are a major conservation issue. As bears are expanding their range in Europe’s human-modified landscapes, it is increasingly important to understand, prevent and address human-bear conflicts and evaluate mitigation strategies in areas of historical coexistence. Based on verified claims, we assessed costs, patterns, and drivers of bear damages in the relict Apennine brown bear population in the Abruzzo Lazio and Molise National Park, central Italy. During 2005−2015, 203 (±71) damage events were verified annually, equivalent to 75,987 (± 30,038) €/year paid for compensation. Most damages occurred in summer and fall, with livestock depredation, especially sheep and cattle calves, prevailing over other types of damages, with apiaries ranking second in costs of compensation. Transhumant livestock owners were less impacted than residential ones, and farms that benefited from prevention measures loaned for use by the PNALM suffered lower levels of bear impact. Livestock farms chronically damaged by bears represented 8 (±3) % of those annually impacted, corresponding to 24 (±6) % of compensation costs. Further improvements in the conflict mitigation policy adopted by the PNALM include integrated prevention, conditional compensation, and participatory processes. We also discuss the implications of our study for human-bear coexistence in broader contexts.

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