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Widespread changes in the European agricultural system have brought about drastic changes in food web interactions, including those between meadow birds and their (nest) predators. Mammals are considered the main nest predators, yet our current knowledge of predator communities in agricultural landscapes is limited. Using camera traps across 11 500 ha of dairy-farming land in Southwest Friesland, The Netherlands, during three spring seasons we monitored: (1) predator presence and (2) actual predation on black-tailed godwit (Limosa limosa limosa) nests. During 2021-2023 we detected 11 species of potential mammalian meadow bird predators. The top six, with a daily presence of ≥ 5%, were: domestic cat (Felis catus), brown rat (Rattus norvegicus), European badger (Meles meles), red fox (Vulpes vulpes), beech marten (Martes foina) and European polecat (Mustela putorius). There were marked, and for most species consistent, differences in spatial distribution, with positive co-occurrence of badgers and foxes. Across the three study years, red foxes were the most consistent predators of godwit nests, whereas domestic cats and brown rats predated very few nests despite their high presence. Patterns over the years indicated that as beech marten nest predation diminished, red fox nest predation increased. We suggest that (1) the presence of predator species alone is not an accurate reflection of their actual nest predation, and (2) the presence of single predator species, and their effects on, meadow birds should be assessed in context of the whole predator community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waterfowl population recruitment is sensitive to duckling survival. We quantified predator types and survival rates for Anas platyrhynchos (Mallard) and Mareca strepera (Gadwall) ducklings in one of the largest brackish water marshes in western North America (Suisun Marsh, California) using 556 radio-tagged ducklings from 284 broods tracked during the 2016 to 2019 breeding seasons. Overall, 78% of ducklings died and 84% of mortalities occurred < 7 days after hatch. After hatching in upland fields, survival was greater for broods that hatched closer to flooded wetlands; broods had a ≥ 75% chance of surviving the move from the nest to water when nests were located ≤ 140 m from the nearest wetland and ≤ 50% chance of surviving when nests were located ≥ 970 m from the nearest wetland. Predation accounted for 91% of mortalities and was attributed to mammals (27.6%), birds (22.0%), snakes (4.4%), and unknown predators (46.0%). Anas platyrhynchos survival to fledging (54 days) was only 3.2% and 0.9% during 2 drier years and 11.7% and 16.7% during 2 wetter years. Mareca strepera survival to fledging was 9.4% to 11.2% among years. Daily survival rates for ducklings generally increased with the amount of flooded wetlands within 0.5 km (A. platyrhynchos) and 1.0 km (M. strepera) of the nest at hatch. Additionally, survival rates increased with duckling age and body mass at hatch for both species and decreased with hatch date for A. platyrhynchos but not M. strepera , which may be partially due to the earlier onset of A. platyrhynchos nesting. For ducklings that survived the initial move to water, survival rates were negatively correlated with salinity and this effect was more pronounced for younger ducklings. Anas platyrhynchos survival to 7 days post hatch decreased by 9.1% (wetter year) to 31.4% (drier year) when ducklings were in 12 ppt water (99th quantile of cumulative salinity concentrations experienced by ducklings) versus 0.5 ppt water. Mareca strepera survival to 7 days decreased by 7.4% when ducklings were in 12 ppt vs. 0.5 ppt water. Our results suggest that maintaining a network of low salinity wetlands within 1 km of upland nesting sites would likely improve duckling survival rates, especially during the critical 7-day period after hatch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recovery of mammalian predators of conservation concern in Europe is a success story, but their impact on some prey species of conservation concern may cause conservation dilemmas. This calls for effective intervention strategies that mitigate predator impacts without compromising their recovery.We evaluated diversionary feeding as a management intervention tool to reduce depredation on nests of rapidly declining Western capercaillies in Scotland. We studied the influence of diversionary feeding provision on the fates of artificial nests deployed using a replicated and representative randomised landscape‐scale experiment. This comprised 30 'paired' control (no diversionary feeding) and treatment (diversionary feeding applied) sites, 60 in total, each containing six artificial nests distributed across 600 km2. The experiment was replicated over 2 years, and in the second year, the control‐treatment pairs were reversed, yielding 60 treatment and 60 control sites and 720 artificial nests.Diversionary feeding substantially reduced depredation of artificial nests, translating into an 82.5% increase in predicted nest survival over 28 days of incubation. The increase in survival was mostly accounted for by a reduction in the probability that a pine marten, the main nest predator, consumed or cached eggs. Diversionary food also significantly reduced nest predation by badgers, although the magnitude of this effect varied by year.Synthesis and applications. Diversionary feeding is an easily employable method shown in this study to reduce predator impact (functional) without lethal (numerical) intervention. Managers should proceed with its application for conserving capercaillie in Scotland without delay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solutions to the cats‐hunting‐wildlife environmental conflict could benefit from social science approaches. Our Theory of Planned Behavior questionnaire—informed by an elicitation survey of cat owners at veterinary clinics about their attitudes, norms, and beliefs regarding bringing their cats inside at night—surveyed 158 cat owners across 20 veterinarian clinics in four cities. It revealed that wildlife conservation was not influential on cat owner intention but veterinarians, cat safety, peers, and household members were. Thus, we designed a social marketing campaign with two treatments: (1) a veterinarian/cat safety message or (2) social/family norm message. Thirty‐four veterinary clinics received one of the two campaign posters or served as the control group. Customers (n = 510) received a "cat welfare" survey and then a pamphlet with the advocated message, and a follow‐up survey by email or telephone 3–6 weeks later (69% response rate). Campaign messaging significantly increased the number of cat owners who reported bringing their cats inside at night compared to the control group. The social/family norm message was most effective. Although rudimentary, the campaign generated measurable changes in cat owner intention and behavior. Conservation campaigns informed by co‐benefits for cat owners may reduce cats' hunting and be conciliatory ways of transcending environmental conflict. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the major management problems in and around protected areas is the intensifying conflict between local people and wildlife, especially large carnivores. Livestock depredation and human fatalities caused by attacks of carnivores are found to be serious obstacles in conflict management. This study aims to explore the patterns, costs, causes and perceptions of human large carnivore conflict in the Nawalpur area of Chitwan National Park. The patterns of livestock loss and human casualties due to large carnivores (Panthera tigris and Panthera pardus) were analysed using the secondary data reported to Chitwan National Park from 2001 to 2019. To understand the people's perception towards carnivores and wildlife conservation, 150 victim respondents were asked, with one household selected from each grid. During 19-year study period, a total of 521 incidents caused by large carnivores were reported, which included 33 human casualties and 488 livestock depredations. Tiger was responsible for the maximum conflict incidents in Nawalpur. The total relief provided for human deaths and injuries was US$17524.41, whereas US$13702.18 was used to compensate for livestock depredation in the Nawalpur area by authorities of the Chitwan National Park. More than 64% of the respondents liked the presence of carnivores in their area and had a positive attitude toward the conservation of large carnivores, even though the carnivores were responsible for livestock depredation and human injury and death. People's satisfaction with the relief scheme provided by the government depended on ethnicity, gender, age class, occupation, education, insurance, and livestock ownership, but they believed the scheme was not effective. Hence, an effective relief scheme and awareness about the process of relief funding should be conducted in conflict areas. Conducting awareness programs for local communities about large carnivores, their behavior, and preparing predator-proof corrals would be helpful in minimizing conflict in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recovery of many seal populations has intensified seal‐fishery conflicts. Acoustic deterrent devices (ADDs), designed to deter seals while minimising collateral harm, provide a potential solution. We investigated feasibility of ADDs to protect a European whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus) fishery in the River Iijoki, Finland, which enters the Baltic Sea. A sound barrier produced by a line of ADDs across the river efficiently prevented grey (Halichoerus grypus) and ringed (Pusa hispida) seals from passing the barrier line, thereby increasing catches, decreasing damage to fishing gear and catch and resulting in fewer seal sightings in the area safeguarded by ADDs. Hence, blocking access of seals to a river or its section by ADDs during a critical fishing period is a promising method for reducing seal‐induced catch losses. However, long‐term assessments of impacts of ADDs are still needed to verify the overall effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Intra‐population heterogeneity in the behavioural response of predators to changes in prey availability caused by human activities can have major evolutionary implications. Among these activities, fisheries, while extracting resources, also provide new feeding opportunities for marine top predators. However, heterogeneity in the extent to which individuals have responded to these opportunities within populations is poorly understood. Here, we used 18 years of photo‐identification data paired with statistical models to assess variation in the way killer whale social units within a subantarctic population (Crozet Islands) interact with fisheries to feed on fish caught on fishing gear (i.e., depredation behaviour). Our results indicate large heterogeneity in both the spatial and temporal extents of depredation across social units. While some frequently depredated on fishery catches over large areas, others sporadically did so and in small areas consistently over the years. These findings suggest that killer whale social units are exposed to varying levels of impacts of depredation, both negative (potential retaliation from fishers) and positive (food provisioning), on their life history traits, and may explain the contrasted demographic patterns observed within the declining population at Crozet but also potentially within the many other killer whale populations documented depredating on fisheries catches worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This research paper presents a comprehensive study of the patterns of conflicts between humans and Asiatic black bears (Ursus thibetanus) in the Guthichaur rural municipality, Jumla, Nepal. Through semi-structured interviews with villagers, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews, this study explores the extent of crop damage, livestock depredation, and human injuries caused by black bears from 2009 to 2019. It was found that crop damage was the most significant form of conflict, followed by livestock depredation and human casualties. This study identifies anthropogenic activities, such as human encroachment into bear habitats and agricultural practices near forests, as primary drivers of these conflicts. Importantly, this research proposes measures to mitigate these conflicts, including initiating compensation schemes for losses, establishing electric fences for crop protection, and launching educational programs. These recommendations, rooted in local practices and conservation efforts, show promise for managing conflicts in regions facing similar challenges with black bears. This paper fills a critical gap in understanding the dynamics of human–bear conflicts in Nepal, contributing valuable insights into wildlife management and conservation strategies. Its findings are significant for researchers, policymakers, and conservationists aiming to develop sustainable solutions for human–wildlife coexistence. Our study assessed patterns of Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus)–human conflicts within the Guthichaur rural municipality, Jumla, Nepal. Through semi-structured interviews with villagers, focus group discussions (FGDs), and key informant interviews (KIIs), we gathered black bear–human conflict information from 2009 to 2019. We identified three primary types of black bear–human interactions: crop damage, livestock depredation, and human injuries. Of these, crop damage (77.03%) emerged as the most prevalent issue. Notably, peak occurrences were observed during autumn (September–October) typically between 9 PM and 3 AM. Livestock depredations were more frequent during nighttime in April–August, with cows/ox (70.12%) being the most depredated animal. Our data also revealed five recorded cases of black bear attacks on humans, which transpired from September to October, primarily in farmland areas in varying years. Despite a prevailing negative perception of bears, a notable level of support exists for their conservation efforts among local communities. Furthermore, these conflicts could be mitigated by reinforcing indigenous crop protection methods and implementing targeted mitigation strategies, as observed in other regions with successful black bear–human interaction management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large marine predators feeding on fish caught on fishing gear, referred to as 'depredation', occur in a wide range of fisheries worldwide. Depredation can result in negative ecological and socio-economic impacts, leading to conflict between fishers and depredating species. However, depredation remains understudied in many fisheries, and this hampers the development of effective mitigation solutions. In this study, 21 years of fishing data (2002–2022) were used to assess shark and odontocete depredation in the pelagic tuna longline fishery of New Caledonia. Using generalized linear models, the year, season, effort, soaking time, and vessel were identified as variables significantly influencing the probability of depredation to occur. Results showed that while shark depredation occurred more frequently than odontocete depredation (58.5% vs. 9.2% of the longline sets), they damaged a lower proportion of fish (3.9% vs. 12.3%) over the study period. Unlike sharks, odontocetes selectively depredate tuna, with their highest occurrence during periods of high tuna catch rates, suggesting a co-occurrence with fishing activities. Together, these results indicate that depredation in the New Caledonian fishery is high compared to other regions and provide essential information on the dynamics and impacts of the issue as a basis for considering management and mitigation options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Livestock herding is an essential and time-honored practice in Balochistan, playing a pivotal role in the region's economy, culture, and way of life. The livestock sector is of utmost important in the province, catering to nearly 20% of the national stock. Over centuries, large predators and their prey species, including livestock, have coexisted in these mountainous landscapes. Consequently, large carnivores are more likely to interact with humans due to their extensive home ranges. This research aims to explore the impact of livestock depredation by large predators on livelihoods and conservation efforts in two districts of Balochistan, Pakistan. A human–carnivore conflict survey was conducted from July to September 2019, gathering data from 311 residents in the selected study area. Large predators in the region preyed on a total of 876 livestock over a year, comprising 560 goats, 292 sheep, 19 cows, and 5 donkeys. The gray wolf emerged as the primary predator, accounting for 66.3% of livestock depredation, which was followed by the caracal (24.3%), Asiatic jackal (8.9%), and striped hyena (0.6%). The economic loss totaled USD 78,694. Notably, 80% of respondents held negative perceptions toward wolves compared to 24.4% for caracals. Only 20.6% of respondents were aware of the importance of conserving carnivores. Livestock depredation by carnivores has fostered negative perceptions among locals toward these animals. There exists a lack of awareness regarding the significance of conserving carnivore species and their ecological roles. It is crucial to raise awareness among communities about the ecological importance of predators like the gray wolf, caracal, Asiatic jackal, striped hyena, and Balochistan black bear through community meetings and educational seminars. Furthermore, providing basic education to herders on effective livestock guarding practices is recommended to mitigate human–carnivore conflicts and promote coexistence between wildlife and local communities in Balochistan. 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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2014-2016 Pacific marine heatwave caused unprecedented die-offs and multi-year reproductive failures for Common Murres Uria aalge along the west coast of North America. Lingering impacts, such as declines in colony attendance and productivity, have persisted at some colonies following the heatwave and are attributed largely to changes in prey availability and quality. Here, we present evidence of an additional, top-down mechanism contributing to Common Murre breeding failures on Gull Island (Alaska): disturbance of nesting birds by aerial predators and associated egg depredation. We collected time-lapse images over five murre breeding seasons (2016-2020) on Gull Island to document the frequency, duration, and intensity of disturbances caused by aerial predators, as well as to quantify disturbance-associated egg depredation. To identify seasonal and inter-annual variability of disturbances, we calculated a daily disturbance index and compared years using generalized additive models. In all years, Bald Eagles Haliaeetus leucocephalus were the primary cause of disturbance, which led to periods of prolonged colony abandonment by murres and facilitated high levels of murre egg depredation by Glaucous-winged Gulls Larus glaucescens and Herring Gulls L. argentatus. We found that the seasonality of disturbance was an important factor in determining egg depredation rates. In years when disturbance levels were high and persisted later in the season, the colony experienced complete breeding failures due to disturbance-associated egg depredation. Our study revealed that the response of nesting murres to a strong environmental perturbation, such as the Pacific marine heatwave, can be complex and involve multiple stressors from both bottom-up and top-down factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Great Black-backed Gulls Larus marinus and American Herring Gulls L. argentatus smithsonianus are considered dietary generalists at the population level: they consume a variety of prey types, including the adults and offspring of other seabirds, and they shift among prey types as availability varies. Atlantic Puffin Fratercula arctica adults, eggs, and chicks are often the target of depredation, and adults are also susceptible to kleptoparasitic attacks by large gulls during their summer breeding season in coastal Newfoundland, Canada. We investigated the depredation and kleptoparasitism of puffins by large gulls during July-August 2021/22 at a multi-species breeding colony on the northeast coast of Newfoundland. We hypothesized that both the inshore arrival of spawning Capelin Mallotus villosus, a key forage fish species in the region, and the onset of the puffin chick-rearing period, which typically coincide, influence puffin depredation and kleptoparasitism by large gulls. Shoreline transects on James Island revealed a decrease in new adult puffin carcasses during puffin chickrearing and Capelin spawning, with most adult puffin depredation occurring before the inshore arrival of spawning Capelin in both years. Behavioural observations (i.e., focal animal, behavioural sampling, and instantaneous scan sampling) revealed that Great Black-backed Gulls were more often present within puffin burrow areas and spent a higher proportion of time in these areas relative to American Herring Gulls, especially during Capelin spawning and puffin chick-rearing. Within puffin burrow areas, Great Black-backed Gulls depredated chicks and kleptoparasitized adults. As only ~30% of followed individuals of both gull species entered puffin burrow areas, it is possible that only a few Great Black-backed Gulls were responsible for puffin depredation and kleptoparasitism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Solutions to the cats‐hunting‐wildlife environmental conflict could benefit from social science approaches. Our Theory of Planned Behavior questionnaire—informed by an elicitation survey of cat owners at veterinary clinics about their attitudes, norms, and beliefs regarding bringing their cats inside at night—surveyed 158 cat owners across 20 veterinarian clinics in four cities. It revealed that wildlife conservation was not influential on cat owner intention but veterinarians, cat safety, peers, and household members were. Thus, we designed a social marketing campaign with two treatments: (1) a veterinarian/cat safety message or (2) social/family norm message. Thirty‐four veterinary clinics received one of the two campaign posters or served as the control group. Customers (n = 510) received a “cat welfare” survey and then a pamphlet with the advocated message, and a follow‐up survey by email or telephone 3–6 weeks later (69% response rate). Campaign messaging significantly increased the number of cat owners who reported bringing their cats inside at night compared to the control group. The social/family norm message was most effective. Although rudimentary, the campaign generated measurable changes in cat owner intention and behavior. Conservation campaigns informed by co‐benefits for cat owners may reduce cats' hunting and be conciliatory ways of transcending environmental conflict.

The assessment of the economic impacts of marine invasive species is fundamental for adopting mitigation measures, yet such impacts have been underreported in the Mediterranean Sea. The silver-cheeked toadfish (Lagocephalus sceleratus) is a toxic pufferfish that since its introduction has seriously disturbed small-scale fisheries along the eastern Mediterranean coast. This species depredates on fishing gears, causing damage to nets, longlines and commercial catches. To quantify its economic impact on small-scale fisheries, we interviewed 141 fishers from Crete (Cretan and Libyan Sea) and the Ionian Sea (Greece) during May 2020–December 2022. The mean annual economic cost resulting from L. sceleratus depredation was estimated at EUR 6315 ± 2620 per vessel in Crete and EUR 258 ± 120 in the Ionian Sea. Additionally, observer surveys carried out on board small-scale fishing vessels in Crete showed that depredation probability was significantly influenced by fishing depth, sea surface temperature, gear type (nets, longlines) and region (Cretan, Libyan Sea). L. sceleratus was caught more frequently and in higher numbers in the Libyan Sea. In response to depredation, fishers in Crete have altered their fishing tactics in terms of fishing in deeper waters, reducing fishing time and changing the technical characteristics of fishing gears. Our results underscore the adverse impacts of L. sceleratus on Greek small-scale fishers, emphasizing the need for region-specific management plans where the species establishes large populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Shark depredation, the full or partial consumption of a hooked fish by a shark before it is landed, is an increasing source of human–wildlife conflict in recreational fisheries. Reports of shark depredation in the catch‐and‐release Tarpon (also known as Atlantic Tarpon) Megalops atlanticus fishery in the Florida Keys are increasing, specifically in Bahia Honda, a recreational fishing hot spot and a putative Tarpon prespawning aggregation site. Methods: Using visual surveys of fishing in Bahia Honda, we quantified depredation rates and drivers of depredation. With acoustic telemetry, we simultaneously tracked 51 Tarpon and 14 Great Hammerheads (also known as Great Hammerhead Sharks) Sphyrna mokarran, the most common shark to depredate Tarpon, to quantify residency and spatial overlap in Bahia Honda. Result: During the visual survey, 394 Tarpon were hooked. The combined observed shark depredation and immediate postrelease predation rate was 15.3% for Tarpon that were fought longer than 5 min. Survival analysis and decision trees showed that depredation risk was highest in the first 5–12 min of the fight and on the outgoing current. During the spawning season, Great Hammerheads shifted their space use in Bahia Honda to overlap with Tarpon core use areas. Great Hammerheads restricted their space use on the outgoing current when compared to the incoming current, which could drive increased shark–angler interactions. Conclusion: Bahia Honda has clear ecological importance for both Tarpon and Great Hammerheads as a prespawning aggregation and feeding ground. The observed depredation mortality and postrelease predation mortality raise conservation concerns for the fishery. Efforts to educate anglers to improve best practices, including reducing fight times and ending a fight prematurely when sharks are present, will be essential to increase Tarpon survival and reduce shark–angler conflict. Impact statementShark depredation in recreational fisheries is an increasing source of human–wildlife conflict in the United States. This study quantified shark depredation in the Tarpon fishery and characterized the spatial ecology of Great Hammerheads and Tarpon in Bahia Honda in the Florida Keys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. Quantifying marine turtle-nest depredation by daily observer monitoring requires substantial labour. Aims. To quantify nest depredation of the Vulnerable flatback turtle (Natator depressus) at one of its largest rookeries and to compare effectiveness of different monitoring methods. Methods. We used daily observer monitoring and passive infrared-camera traps separately or in combination to record nest depredation, and identified impacts on remaining eggs and hatchlings in depredated nests. Key results. More than a quarter (28%) of the 69 monitored nests were confirmed as depredated, although this figure is an underestimate of total losses because camera traps detected twice as many depredation events (39%) as did direct observation (17%) (P = 0.012). Cameras also provided important behavioural data and identified predators. Although reptile and bird predators were also recorded, the introduced red fox (Vulpes vulpes) was the primary predator identified, digging into 26% of the monitored nests. More than half of the depredation events by foxes (58% or 11/19 nests) occurred late term, between turtles hatching and emerging from the nest, which therefore means that losses calculated through counts of eggshell left in the nest are underestimates because predation of hatchlings is not included by the eggshell count method. Furthermore, almost half (42%) of all depredated nests were depredated more than once, with some nests opened up to five times, potentially exacerbating clutch losses due to environmental exposure. Conclusions. Egg losses for confirmed depredated nests (27 ± 37%, range 0–100%) were three times the background levels (i.e. 9.3% of eggs that failed to hatch as a result of embryo death during development). Implications. The results of this study strongly warrant the implementation of ongoing fox predator monitoring and mitigation strategies to protect nests at this nationally, and internationally, conservation-significant population of flatback turtles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Intra‐population heterogeneity in the behavioural response of predators to changes in prey availability caused by human activities can have major evolutionary implications. Among these activities, fisheries, while extracting resources, also provide new feeding opportunities for marine top predators. However, heterogeneity in the extent to which individuals have responded to these opportunities within populations is poorly understood. Here, we used 18 years of photo‐identification data paired with statistical models to assess variation in the way killer whale social units within a subantarctic population (Crozet Islands) interact with fisheries to feed on fish caught on fishing gear (i.e., depredation behaviour). Our results indicate large heterogeneity in both the spatial and temporal extents of depredation across social units. While some frequently depredated on fishery catches over large areas, others sporadically did so and in small areas consistently over the years. These findings suggest that killer whale social units are exposed to varying levels of impacts of depredation, both negative (potential retaliation from fishers) and positive (food provisioning), on their life history traits, and may explain the contrasted demographic patterns observed within the declining population at Crozet but also potentially within the many other killer whale populations documented depredating on fisheries catches worldwide.

This survey was conducted in the Trongsa District of Bhutan to assess and document the depredation of livestock by wild predators, time, and seasonality of predation, estimate the economic value of livestock losses in three years (2019-2021), and assess farmers’ perception of livestock depredation. A survey using a semi-structured questionnaire was done with 218 farming households from five subdistricts of Trongsa, Bhutan. From a total of 683 livestock kills recorded, the tiger (69.69%) killed more than the dhole (14.4%), leopard (13.7%), and bear (1.4%) in the last three years. Adult cattle (milch, Dry & Bull) were more vulnerable (n=496) compared to young (calf & heifer) cattle (n=169). The majority of predation was in summer (51.18%) and winter (23.62%) whereas the rests (25.19%) were believed to have occurred irrespective of seasons. The total loss of 683 livestock head was valued at 380,739.13$ of which the majority were cattle (n= 665, 345,219.69$) followed by yak (n=48, 35,032.87$). Each household on average lost approximately 23.8% of the annual household cash income in the last three years and only 13% (n=30) received some form of compensation. The majority of respondents (96.8%) attribute a current increase in depredation cases to wildlife conservation efforts such as strict conservation laws, protected areas, and biological corridors. We recommend livestock intensification programs such as pasture improvements in fallow lands and financial compensations for the loss of improved breeds as short-term measures. We recommend for enhanced discussion on livestock insurance schemes and involve farmers in managing human-wildlife conflicts.

Numerous studies report proximity to land cover edges decreases avian nesting success, yet variation among species, sites, and nesting guilds obscures overall patterns. Nest success is a key demographic parameter, and edges are often created from anthropogenic disturbance; therefore, further understanding of nest success and edges should inform bird conservation efforts. We performed a meta-analysis to examine effects of edges on mature forest and shrubland bird nest survival in eastern North America. Sixteen studies fit our inclusion criteria, comprising data for 11 mature forest and 9 shrubland species. Nest success for mature forest birds declined with proximity to edges. Additionally, random effects of species and study explained a relatively large amount of variance in nest survival. We did not find a significant edge effect for shrubland birds, but only two data points (averaged within studies) were greater than 100 meters from an edge. Thus, in studies we compiled, an impact of edges was only apparent for forest species that nested far from edges. An interactive effect of distance-to-edge and nest placement (low vs. higher nesting height) did not significantly influence nest survival. Single-species analyses showed a relationship between distance-to-edge and nesting success for Hermit Thrush ( Catharus guttatus ), though small sample sizes may have limited our ability to detect relationships for other species. Overall, core areas greater than 250 m from edges tend to have higher nest success for mature forest birds, information that will help managers and conservationists when maintaining habitat for both forest and shrubland bird communities.

Our study assessed patterns of Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus)–human conflicts within the Guthichaur rural municipality, Jumla, Nepal. Through semi-structured interviews with villagers, focus group discussions (FGDs), and key informant interviews (KIIs), we gathered black bear–human conflict information from 2009 to 2019. We identified three primary types of black bear–human interactions: crop damage, livestock depredation, and human injuries. Of these, crop damage (77.03%) emerged as the most prevalent issue. Notably, peak occurrences were observed during autumn (September–October) typically between 9 PM and 3 AM. Livestock depredations were more frequent during nighttime in April–August, with cows/ox (70.12%) being the most depredated animal. Our data also revealed five recorded cases of black bear attacks on humans, which transpired from September to October, primarily in farmland areas in varying years. Despite a prevailing negative perception of bears, a notable level of support exists for their conservation efforts among local communities. Furthermore, these conflicts could be mitigated by reinforcing indigenous crop protection methods and implementing targeted mitigation strategies, as observed in other regions with successful black bear–human interaction management.

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.

Depredation (wild predators feeding on fish caught by man) is a global concern in the fishing industry. Solutions to this type of conflict necessarily involve setting up an observation program to understand and quantify the phenomenon. This study takes the example of the toothfish (Dissostichus eleginoides) fishery around the Kerguelen and Crozet archipelagos in the southern Indian Ocean. Collaboration between the various stakeholders involved like the management authority (TAF or Terres australes françaises), the scientists (MNHN, CNRS, IRD) and the fishermen was the key to the rapid implementation of data collection from the late 90s onwards. The fishery observers employed by TAF cover 100% of the fishing effort on board the eight authorized vessels. The experience gained has been presented and benefited to other observer programs.

Bycatch is a major global threat to marine megafauna and occurs in nearly all fishing fleets, including small-scale fisheries that use gillnets. Gillnets represent a threat to endangered air-breathing megafauna, who incidentally entangle in bottom-set gillnets and suffocate after being attracted by bait that is secured on fishing gear. We here provide the first evidence that hawksbill turtles feed on trapped fish in gillnets, suggesting that potential prey items trapped in gillnets may act as additional bait, attracting carnivorous sea turtles towards this threat. This overlooked depredating behaviour potentially explains and increases the likelihood of critically endangered hawksbill turtle bycatch in gillnet fisheries, calling for technological and management solutions.

The echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus) is documented as a new native predator of freshwater turtle eggs, particularly those of the vulnerable Fitzroy River turtle (Rheodytes leukops), and the critically endangered white-throated snapping turtle (Elseya albagula). This depredation has been identified in the Fitzroy, Burnett and Mary Catchments with echidnas recorded at traditional turtle nesting banks using direct observation of depredation of eggs, remote camera footage and identification of tracks. Echidnas were observed at traditional nesting banks for E. albagula and R. leukops nesting across eight months of the year. The presence of echidnas was more frequent during the R. leukops nesting season in spring. R. leukops is endemic to the Fitzroy Catchment and the depredation rate of eggs was significantly higher than for other species and catchments. The mean top egg depth of R. leukops nests was found to be the same depth as the echidna's beak length. There was a significant increase in depredation during the five-year study period, with 47.4% of R. leukops clutches depredated by echidna in the 2022 season. This substantial loss of eggs and recruitment of hatchling turtles poses a significant threat to the populations of this threatened species. The short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus) has been found to be an unlikely predator of freshwater turtle eggs. Egg depredation of the vulnerable Fitzroy River turtle (Rheodytes leukops) and the critically endangered white-throated snapping turtle (Elseya albagula) was recorded during annual freshwater turtle nesting surveys. The egg depredation by the echidna has been recorded across the Fitzroy, Burnett and Mary Catchments. Photograph by Duncan Limpus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coyote (Canis latrans) depredation of sea turtle nests is a growing concern along the US East Coast and while several designs for predator exclusion cages (PECs) have been used, no one PEC is 100% effective. We investigated if PECs are a visual stimulus that lure coyotes to sea turtle nests. We used camera traps to evaluate coyote behavior and visitation rates at two PEC designs on Bald Head Island, North Carolina, USA, between 11 and − 28 June 2021. We quantified coyote presence and absence, number of independent coyote observations (behavioral events), and aspects of observed coyote behaviors. Our results indicate that PECs do not act as a visual cue to coyotes which will provide flexibility for sea turtle management in choosing PEC designs. We discuss the prospect of using a variety of PEC designs as a deterrent to coyotes and the possible effects of human activity on coyote behavior near sea turtle nests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The predation of livestock by gray wolf (Canis lupus; hereafter, wolf) is a problem throughout eastern Europe and poses a threat to sustainable pasture-based livestock production in some areas. In Croatia, farmers have alarmed the public with news of frequent wolf attacks in the last decade, and wolves, as protected animals, are perceived as a pest and a threat. The aim of this study was to analyze and present the frequency of attacks and killed/injured domestic animals in Croatia. During the ten-year period (2010–2020), 13,359 attack events were reported, where it was determined, with certainty, that the attack was by the wolf. In these attacks, 19,111 domestic animals were killed and 4634 were injured. Predation events occurred predominantly (92.71%) in three counties located in southern Croatia (sub-Mediterranean Croatia), whose total area is 11,170 km2 (19.74% of the total area of Croatia). The most frequently killed species were sheep (64.78% of all killed animals), which was followed by goats (19.28%) and cattle (9.59%). The highest frequency of attacks and animals killed was recorded in the summer followed by spring and autumn, and the lowest was in winter. The majority of attacks (79.57%) occurred in the morning and during the day. The animal with the highest average number killed per attack was sheep (1.64), which was followed by goats (1.38), cattle (0.99), horses (0.94), donkeys (0.95), and guardian dogs (0.92). During the studied period, in the three counties with the most frequent attacks, 11.72% of the average goat population, 6.34% of the cattle population, and 5.61% of the sheep population were killed. Wolf predation in sub-Mediterranean Croatia presents a threat to the population of domestic ruminants dominantly kept in pastoral livestock systems, and additional efforts need to be made to achieve co-existence between the wolf population and farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Marine mammals are known to interact with fisheries worldwide, usually in the form of depredation which is the act of removing captured fish or bait from fishing gear. Depredation can significantly damage fishing gear and catch, thus increasing operating costs. Additionally, such interactions may lead to the incidental capture of marine mammals with consequences that may lead to injury and death. The endangered Mediterranean monk seal has been known to interact with small-scale fisheries in the Mediterranean Sea, with consequent negative impacts on the species and fishermen. While the population of the species has steadily grown to about 20 individuals in Cyprus in the past 12 years, the Mediterranean monk seal is currently facing different anthropogenic stressors. Interviews were conducted with 90 fishermen with the aim to get a better understanding of the interactions between the Mediterranean monk seal and small-scale fisheries in the Republic of Cyprus. The findings indicate minimal interactions between the monk seals and fisheries, but it is likely that the species may accidentally become entangled on fishing gear, potentially leading to adverse consequences and mortality. This study proposes specific area- and time-based protected areas as a management action to mitigate against these interactions. Interactions between fisheries and marine mammals have been well documented in almost all existing fishing gears around the world, often associated with detrimental consequences. Interactions of the endangered Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) with small-scale fisheries have been previously documented in the Mediterranean; this is a problem that seems to be growing in recent years. The present study aims to understand for the first time the nature and extent of interactions between the Mediterranean monk seal and small-scale fisheries in the Republic of Cyprus. The data were collected by conducting in-person semi-structured interviews, between November and December 2020, with 90 fishermen operating from nine different ports, extending throughout the entire coastline of the Republic of Cyprus. The results revealed minimal interactions between the Mediterranean monk seals and small-scale fisheries. The findings indicate that interactions are more likely to occur at depths of less than 10 m, closer to the coast, with the use of trammel nets and gillnets, and during the spring and summer months. The encounter, depredation and incidental capture rates were calculated at 0.01 (0.95%), 0.005 (0.51%) and 0.0004 (0.04%) per fisher, respectively. Spatiotemporal closed areas are proposed as a potential solution to mitigate these interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depredation by marine predators causes economic losses and impacts depredating species and fish stocks. To understand these impacts, it is important to accurately estimate catch losses from depredation. Pelagic longline fisheries are susceptible to depredation, and depredation is difficult to quantify, because gear is suspended in the water column away from the vessel for extended periods. In the present study, we used fisheries data and a novel modeling approach to estimate catch removal by odontocetes in the Hawai'i deep-set longline fishery. We estimated annual biomass and economic value lost to depredation of three of the most commonly landed species as approximately 100 t and 1 million USD, respectively, during 2012–2018. The median cost on sets when depredation occurred was $600 USD, with the worst 10% of sets experiencing losses exceeding $2300 USD. We also identified broad-scale spatiotemporal patterns and hotspots of depredation across the range of the fishery. Our findings quantify the ecological and economic implications of this interaction, and our methods can be applied in similar fisheries elsewhere to assess the impacts of depredation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The livestock depredation by large carnivores is a main cause for increasing human–wildlife conflicts (HWCs) and is one of the prime challenges for carnivore's conservation and a major economic concern to livestock‐dependent communities around wildlife habitats. Thus, understanding the patterns and trends of livestock depredation may contribute to better understanding of the mechanisms underlying HWCs and to mitigating HWCs. HWCs characterized by livestock depredation by large carnivores are prevalent in northern Pakistan, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly investigated. This study was conducted in 2018 in the Khunjerab Valley and Shimshal Valley of the Pamir region to evaluate the spatial and seasonal variation and impact of livestock depredation by carnivores. Data were collected on livestock depredation and its associated economic impact through semi‐structured interviews of randomly selected households in the two valleys. The livestock in Shimshal Valley was more susceptible to large carnivores' depredation (233 heads per year) than in Khunjerab Valley (125 heads per year). This spatial variation in livestock depredation was reflective of the difference in the socio‐economic conditions and physical locations between the two valleys. More livestock depredation took place in winter in Khunjerab Valley, while more livestock depredation occurred in summer in Shimshal Valley, mainly because of different grazing systems in the two valleys. The total economic loss incurred due to large carnivores' depredation was US$ 76,063 in Shimshal Valley, as compared to US$ 34,175 in Khunjerab Valley in 2018. The average economic loss per household was US$ 950.8, accounting for nearly 30% of the household annual income in Shimshal Valley in 2018. A higher proportion of participants in Shimshal Valley (83%) in comparison to Khunjerab Valley (69%) expressed a negative attitude towards wild carnivores. The study concludes that Shimshal Valley, remotely located and having comparatively marginal income opportunities, was more reliant on agro‐pastoralism and thus more vulnerable to the economic repercussions of livestock depredation by wild carnivores. Thus, such measures as improvement in road transportation and livestock management are in urgent need to better manage HWCs in Shimshal Valley. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Use of M-44 sodium cyanide devices has been opposed by various groups contending that M-44s threaten human health and safety and endanger non-target animals. In Montana, M-44 sodium cyanide devices may be used by non-USDA-Wildlife Services individuals licensed by the Montana Department of Agriculture. This paper summarizes the use data submitted by these non-federal applicators between 2006-2019. The data includes use records, take (both target and non-target), and livestock loss reports. It is hoped that this information provides additional data and context to inform the debate over this controversial predator management tool.

Predator issues related to interactions with livestock and poultry represent a state, national, and international issue. Predators are important for healthy ecosystems; however, with increased interactions between predators and agricultural animals there is also an increased likelihood of predator depredation. The 4-H Youth Development Program is a national nonformal youth education program. Annually, over 1.5 million youth participate in 4-H Animal Science projects, mainly agricultural animals. 4-H youth who raise agricultural animals face issues of predator-livestock interactions. A 4-H curriculum was developed to help youth learn about predator-livestock interactions and strategies to mitigate these issues through improved animal husbandry. Pilot research on the use of the curriculum revealed improved knowledge among participating youth, as well as the application of mitigation strategies to youths’ own practice and outreach to their communities through a service-learning project.

Rangeland livestock operations in California and elsewhere are increasingly turning to livestock guardian dogs (LGD) to protect their herds from predators. LGD success depends on a variety of factors including social bonding, environmental and operational context, and individual behaviors. Observation and first-hand experience with LGD on foothill rangeland, Sacramento Valley cropland, and Sierra Nevada/Great Basin rangeland can provide practical evaluation of historic and current research regarding LGD efficacy, breed differences, and economic costs versus benefits. However, little is known about the relationship between LGD and livestock behavior and forage utilization. This article synthesizes current research, experiential knowledge from practitioners, and new frontiers for LGD research. An updated understanding of the principles of bonding LGD pups to livestock will improve LGD success rates and reduce costs for producers.

The reintroduction of the Mexican gray wolf to the southwest U.S. has been controversial because of documented wolf-livestock conflict (and fear of potential conflicts). Wolf-livestock interactions can lead to economic losses for ranchers directly from depredation and indirectly through physiological impacts on livestock such as weight loss. Ranchers report that, in addition to economic losses, they face additional management costs due to the presence of wolves. Relying on a survey of Arizona ranchers, this study explores ranchers’ attitudes toward wolf reintroduction, identifies and estimates the costs of management practices implemented by ranchers to avoid or reduce wolf-livestock conflicts, and examines how spending on preventative management practices, including the value of ranchers’ time, compares with net returns per cow under three different price scenarios: a low-price, mid-price, and high-price year. Building upon literature that finds ranchers are motivated by lifestyle and other non-monetary benefits of ranching, we posit that factors beyond profit maximization influence ranchers’ decision to implement management practices to limit wolf-livestock conflicts. We find that spending on preventive management practices can be large relative to net returns. We also find that negative attitudes toward wolves are not well correlated with experiences with or losses from wolf depredation. These results illuminate the complexity of rancher attitudes and management decisions, with implications for predator coexistence and conservation efforts.

As natural habitats continue to shrink in Kenya's Amboseli Ecosystem, livestock depredation by lions Panthera leo threatens both the livelihoods of pastoralist communities and the lion populations affected by retaliatory killings. Finding ways for people and carnivores to coexist at the landscape scale is crucial to the long-term persistence of many threatened animal populations. The fortification of existing traditional bomas to make them predator-proof reduces night-time depredation of livestock. However, the sustainability and cost-effectiveness of such an initiative rely on boma owners taking responsibility for the upkeep and repair of their bomas. In August 2018 we surveyed 88 predator-proof bomas constructed during 2012–2018 and recorded their characteristics and levels of damage. We examined which variables influence disrepair, using a series of statistical analyses, including generalized linear mixed models. Our results reveal there was more disrepair in bomas constructed with wooden posts, confirming the benefit of using recycled plastic posts; in bomas with lower livestock density, suggesting that fewer animals could cause more damage or that such damage is not repaired; and in bomas located further away from a neighbouring predator-proof boma, suggesting a social element in encouraging or enabling boma owners to carry out maintenance. We recommend the consideration and further investigation of this social influence in guiding and improving the sustainability of conservation programmes that use predator-proof bomas, with a view to reducing negative interactions between pastoralists and lions.

In Latvia, livestock depredation by wolves has increased during the last two decades. Most of the attacks occur in summer and autumn during wolf hunting season. Use of effective preventive measures in Latvia is low, and farmers primarily rely on wolf hunting as a depredation reduction measure. The total numbers of wolf attacks and number of affected sheep per year in regional forest management units were analyzed in relation to the estimated wolf density, extent of culling, and proportion of juveniles, as well as the sheep density and estimated number of wild prey animals. The response variables (number of attacks and affected sheep per year) were modelled using a negative binomial regression, testing the effects of every covariate separately and building models from the significant covariates. The depredation level was related to sheep density and estimated wolf population size. No reducing effect was found for culling, and an even greater depredation rate was expected when the proportion of culled wolves increased. In addition, no significant effect was associated with the other covariates. However, greater numbers of affected sheep were expected at higher red deer density, suggesting increased opportunistic livestock depredation when red deer locally outcompete roe deer, the preferred wolf prey in Latvia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to assess if the people are satisfied with the relief fund scheme in the three different user committees belonging to 10 Buffer Zone User Group (BZUG) of Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park (SNNP) in the situation with the higher incidents of conflict on those areas. Differences in local people's attitudes and the effect of socio-economic factors like age, education, economic status, the quantity of crop damage, and their influence on the satisfaction level of people towards the prevailing relief scheme were mainly captured using a semi-structured questionnaire survey of the households. A total of 162 households (HHs), comprising 40.5% of the total 377 households, were surveyed using a purposive sampling method. People's attitude towards relief schemes was measured at three levels (positive, negative, or neutral) while the Chi-square test at 5% level of significance was used to determine whether people's attitudes and relief schemes were dependent or not. Similarly, Chi-square test was used to determine the dependency of different socioeconomic factors and people's attitudes towards the relief scheme. The results showed that the majority of respondents i.e. 56% were not satisfied (negative attitude) with the relief scheme, 26% were neutral and only 18% of respondents were positive towards the relief fund (satisfied). A mere 41.93 USD was provided as relief against the crop loss of 101 USD at an average in the study area. Similarly, 73 USD was the relief amount for livestock loss (goat) of 124 USD per case. Owing to inadequate and delayed payment, the relief fund scheme was unable to bring a satisfactory change in the attitudes of people. Thus, the regular amendments of relief guidelines to address insufficient and delayed payment are recommended. Additionally, further studies on the wildlife damage relief schemes and its cost-effectiveness and appropriate measures to manage the drawback of this scheme are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Baltic Proper harbour porpoise population is listed as Critically Endangered by IUCN, and only a few hundred animals remain. One of the most serious threats to this population is bycatch in static net fisheries. To minimize bycatch, ICES has proposed that acoustic deterrent devices, pingers, should be used on static nets within the population's range.However, there have previously been indications that grey seals learn to associate the pinger sounds with the presence of nets with easily accessible prey, and that pinger use therefore can increase the risk of seal depredation in static net fisheries.In recent years, pingers operating at higher frequencies have been made commercially available, the idea being that harbour porpoises will still be able to hear the sound at 50–120 kHz while this will be above or at the limit of seal hearing. This would mean that such high‐frequency pingers would not induce this so‐called dinner‐bell effect.In this study, data were collected from active commercial static net fisheries in the Baltic Proper, using two types of high‐frequency pingers operating at 50–120 and 70 kHz, respectively. Pingers were attached to nets in accordance with manufacturers' guidelines, and fishers were asked to estimate the catch loss owing to seals in nets with and without pingers.Data were received from 646 deployments made between May 2019 and September 2020. Four generalized mixed effect models were developed with relevant variables.The results suggest using high‐frequency pingers does not increase seal depredation on static nets. It is concluded that pingers could be used as an interim measure to minimize bycatch of the Critically Endangered Baltic Proper harbour porpoise population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Livestock depredation is a major medium- and large-carnivore conservation challenge around the globe, causing a substantial economic loss to small-scale agricultural communities in the Wolaita Highlands, southern Ethiopia, and often leading to retaliatory killing. In the Wolaita Highlands, southern Ethiopia, livestock depredation rates are increasing because of conversion of wild habitats into grazing lands. Various studies have examined the interactions between humans and carnivores in time and space and the prey preference of carnivores with regard to livestock type. Aim: This study aimed to assess livestock depredation by large carnivores in time, space, season and prey preference by carnivores and economic losses by farmers with regard to livestock depredation in the highlands of Wolaita, southern Ethiopia. Methods: In total, 384 herders who are heads of households were interviewed and an information-theoretic approach was used to analyse the factors influencing self-reported livestock losses to spotted hyena, leopards and jackal. Key results: The economic loss associated with livestock depredation by spotted hyena, leopard and jackal amounted to an average loss of US$33.3 per herder and year. We found that spotted hyena had a preference for sheep, goat and donkey; leopard for goat and sheep; and jackal for goat and poultry. Livestock depredations by the three carnivores were mainly during the night-time and more severe during the dry season. Conclusion: The number of livestock owned by a household, night-time, dry season and the availability and preferences of the type of livestock by carnivores had the strongest influence on livestock losses. Implications: To mitigate wild carnivore conflicts in the highlands of Wolaita, southern Ethiopia, we make recommendations that the farmers should be trained and equipped in order to build a better wild-carnivore management strategies and to scale up their mitigating strategies. Livestock depredation by carnivores is a major conservation challenge around the world, causing substantial economic losses of people living around protected areas. This study aimed to assess livestock depredation by carnivore in the highlands of Wolaita, southern Ethiopia, and results showed that most losses occurred mainly during the night-time and dry season. We make recommendations for how to minimise human–carnivore conflicts by adjusting livestock guarding time and seasonality. Photograph by Yigrem Deneke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The livestock depredation by large carnivores is a main cause for increasing human–wildlife conflicts (HWCs) and is one of the prime challenges for carnivore's conservation and a major economic concern to livestock‐dependent communities around wildlife habitats. Thus, understanding the patterns and trends of livestock depredation may contribute to better understanding of the mechanisms underlying HWCs and to mitigating HWCs. HWCs characterized by livestock depredation by large carnivores are prevalent in northern Pakistan, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly investigated. This study was conducted in 2018 in the Khunjerab Valley and Shimshal Valley of the Pamir region to evaluate the spatial and seasonal variation and impact of livestock depredation by carnivores. Data were collected on livestock depredation and its associated economic impact through semi‐structured interviews of randomly selected households in the two valleys. The livestock in Shimshal Valley was more susceptible to large carnivores’ depredation (233 heads per year) than in Khunjerab Valley (125 heads per year). This spatial variation in livestock depredation was reflective of the difference in the socio‐economic conditions and physical locations between the two valleys. More livestock depredation took place in winter in Khunjerab Valley, while more livestock depredation occurred in summer in Shimshal Valley, mainly because of different grazing systems in the two valleys. The total economic loss incurred due to large carnivores’ depredation was US$ 76,063 in Shimshal Valley, as compared to US$ 34,175 in Khunjerab Valley in 2018. The average economic loss per household was US$ 950.8, accounting for nearly 30% of the household annual income in Shimshal Valley in 2018. A higher proportion of participants in Shimshal Valley (83%) in comparison to Khunjerab Valley (69%) expressed a negative attitude towards wild carnivores. The study concludes that Shimshal Valley, remotely located and having comparatively marginal income opportunities, was more reliant on agro‐pastoralism and thus more vulnerable to the economic repercussions of livestock depredation by wild carnivores. Thus, such measures as improvement in road transportation and livestock management are in urgent need to better manage HWCs in Shimshal Valley.

The assessment of the economic impacts of marine invasive species is fundamental for adopting mitigation measures, yet such impacts have been underreported in the Mediterranean Sea. The silver-cheeked toadfish (Lagocephalus sceleratus) is a toxic pufferfish that since its introduction has seriously disturbed small-scale fisheries along the eastern Mediterranean coast. This species depredates on fishing gears, causing damage to nets, longlines and commercial catches. To quantify its economic impact on small-scale fisheries, we interviewed 141 fishers from Crete (Cretan and Libyan Sea) and the Ionian Sea (Greece) during May 2020–December 2022. The mean annual economic cost resulting from L. sceleratus depredation was estimated at EUR 6315 ± 2620 per vessel in Crete and EUR 258 ± 120 in the Ionian Sea. Additionally, observer surveys carried out on board small-scale fishing vessels in Crete showed that depredation probability was significantly influenced by fishing depth, sea surface temperature, gear type (nets, longlines) and region (Cretan, Libyan Sea). L. sceleratus was caught more frequently and in higher numbers in the Libyan Sea. In response to depredation, fishers in Crete have altered their fishing tactics in terms of fishing in deeper waters, reducing fishing time and changing the technical characteristics of fishing gears. Our results underscore the adverse impacts of L. sceleratus on Greek small-scale fishers, emphasizing the need for region-specific management plans where the species establishes large populations.

Lion populations in Africa declined precipitously in the twentieth century outside of protected areas but the commercial cattle ranches of Laikipia County, Kenya, have been a unique exception, with low livestock stocking rates, careful range management, large populations of wild ungulates, and a full complement of large carnivores, including lions at a stable density of about 6/100 km2. The Laikipia Predator Project, later Living With Lions, started in 1997 with two primary objectives: improving livestock husbandry to reduce lion predation losses and subsequent killing of lions, and studying behavioral adaptations of lions to human activities and persecution. We initially interviewed ranch owners and managers on lion numbers, losses to all mortality factors, husbandry methods, costs, and lion control measures. Studies of husbandry and control methods led to improved livestock management, which gradually reduced losses and retaliatory lion killing. Persecuted lions are secretive and nocturnal, so behavioral research was dependent upon radio collaring, requiring development an effective capture technique. Collars introduced ranchers to their lions as individuals, decreasing their propensity to shoot them after livestock predation. The most important breakthrough was the development of “lion-proof” mobile bomas (corrals) which dramatically reduced night time losses and retaliatory killing. Global positioning system (GPS)-Iridium collars for research into lion movements, allowed development of a Lion Early Warning System to inform ranchers of morning lion locations, allowing them to avoid lions during day time grazing. These measures reduced retaliatory lion killing by 90% between 1998 and 2017. Development of simple and inexpensive hyena-proof bomas for traditional pastoralists dramatically reduced their losses and motivation to poison predators. Studies of lion movements and ecological energetics in relation to human activities have revealed patterns of diel avoidance of humans/livestock by day and predation of wild prey near bomas at night, showing that lions partition their activities temporally in order to utilize high quality hunting habitat while minimizing risk of encountering humans. Studies of predation ecology suggest that lion predation does not have a significant impact on Laikipia’s important population of endangered Grevy’s zebra. Several other carnivore research and conservation projects in Kenya arose out of the initial work in Laikipia.

Human-Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) conflicts are increasing as the species rebounds from the negative effects of DDT. Ospreys forage at aquaculture facilities in North America, South America, and Europe, where nonlethal and lethal control are used to reduce depredations. Under the authority of a federal depredation permit, personnel at a state-owned fish hatchery in Montana shot eight Ospreys from 2018–2020 to reduce loss of brood stock largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). Independent long-term data (2012–2022) of Osprey breeding ecology along the Yellowstone River, which included the hatchery, afforded a rare opportunity to examine nest occupancy and reproductive success of the local population before, during, and following lethal control. The local breeding population of Ospreys collapsed by 2021 and the breeding range contracted 48–67 km during and after shooting. Shooting at the hatchery was the greatest source of Osprey mortality on the 950-km linear study area. In 2021, an informal working group of diverse stakeholders began meeting to develop nonlethal methods to reduce Osprey depredations at the hatchery. Los conflictos entre humanos y Pandion haliaetus aumentan a medida que la especie se recupera de los efectos negativos del DDT. P. haliaetus se alimenta en instalaciones acuícolas en América del Norte, América del Sur y Europa, donde se utilizan controles no letales y letales para reducir las depredaciones. Bajo la autoridad de un permiso federal de control, el personal de una piscifactoría de propiedad estatal en Montana disparó contra ocho individuos de P. haliaetus entre 2018 y 2020 para reducir la pérdida de reproductores de Micropterus salmoides. Los datos independientes a largo plazo (2012–2022) de la ecología reproductiva de P. haliaetus a lo largo del Río Yellowstone, que incluía la piscifactoría, proporcionaron una rara oportunidad para examinar la ocupación del nido y el éxito reproductivo de la población local antes, durante y después del control letal. La población reproductora local de P. haliaetus colapsó en 2021 y el área de reproducción se contrajo de 48 a 67 km durante y después de los disparos. Los disparos en la piscifactoría fueron la mayor fuente de mortalidad de P. haliaetus en el área de estudio lineal de 950 km. En 2021, un grupo de trabajo informal de diversas partes interesadas comenzó a reunirse para desarrollar métodos no letales para reducir las depredaciones de P. haliaetus en la piscifactoría. [Traducción del equipo editorial] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As natural habitats continue to shrink in Kenya's Amboseli Ecosystem, livestock depredation by lions Panthera leo threatens both the livelihoods of pastoralist communities and the lion populations affected by retaliatory killings. Finding ways for people and carnivores to coexist at the landscape scale is crucial to the long-term persistence of many threatened animal populations. The fortification of existing traditional bomas to make them predator-proof reduces night-time depredation of livestock. However, the sustainability and cost-effectiveness of such an initiative rely on boma owners taking responsibility for the upkeep and repair of their bomas. In August 2018 we surveyed 88 predator-proof bomas constructed during 2012–2018 and recorded their characteristics and levels of damage. We examined which variables influence disrepair, using a series of statistical analyses, including generalized linear mixed models. Our results reveal there was more disrepair in bomas constructed with wooden posts, confirming the benefit of using recycled plastic posts; in bomas with lower livestock density, suggesting that fewer animals could cause more damage or that such damage is not repaired; and in bomas located further away from a neighbouring predator-proof boma, suggesting a social element in encouraging or enabling boma owners to carry out maintenance. We recommend the consideration and further investigation of this social influence in guiding and improving the sustainability of conservation programmes that use predator-proof bomas, with a view to reducing negative interactions between pastoralists and lions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The domestic cat, Felis catus, is one of the most popular and widespread domestic animals. Because domestic cats can reach high population densities and retain at least some tendency to hunt, their overall impact on wildlife can be severe. Domestic cats have highly variable predation rates depending on the availability of prey in their environment, their owners' practices, and individual cat characteristics. Among these characteristics, cat personality has recently been hypothesized to be an important factor contributing to variations in the hunting activity of cats. In this study, we surveyed 2508 cat owners living in France about their cats' personalities, using the Feline Five personality framework, and the frequency with which cats bring home prey. Personality traits were analyzed using factor analysis and related to predation frequency using cumulative logit models. For both birds and small mammals, cats with high levels of extraversion or low levels of neuroticism had significantly higher frequencies of prey return. Owners whose cats had low levels of agreeableness or high levels of dominance reported a significantly lower frequency of bird return. Personality differences therefore seem to contribute to the high variability in predation rates among domestic cats. We also found that the owner‐reported prey return frequencies were significantly higher for cats spending more time outdoors, for non‐pedigree cats, and for owners living in rural or suburban areas as opposed to urban areas. By contrast, we did not detect an effect of cat sex or age on their reported prey return rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The eastern part of Bulgaria entirely borders the Black Sea, which defines it as a maritime country. The Bulgarian coast is an important fishing region for local people and has a high potential for interactions between fisheries and cetaceans. Depredation caused by cetaceans and damage to fishing gears can potentially lead to substantial economic loss for fishermen, while cetacean bycatch raises conservation concerns. Over the period 2016 - 2019, we conducted face-to-face interviews with fishermen in local fishing areas to better understand the fisheries – cetacean interactions in the Bulgarian part of the Black Sea. The research objectives were to identify the current fishermen’s attitudes toward cetaceans, understand the damage caused by local marine mammals to the different types of fishing gear, and gather fishermen’s proposals to resolve the problems. To record all of this, a specially designed structured survey was conducted. The results showed that fishermen’s attitude towards cetaceans was mostly positive and was not influenced by the type of fishing gear used. We found that fisheries - cetacean interactions are frequent, especially with dalyans gear and set gillnets. Cetacean bycatch mortality was reported to be highest for set gillnets, and the most vulnerable species was the Phocoena phocoena. Although interview data may be biased due to differences in perceptions and experience of the interviewees, and therefore should be interpreted with caution, this method allowed us to cover multiple types of interactions between cetaceans and Bulgarian fisheries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Understanding population dynamics and impacts on island ecology remain top priorities for the conservation management of seabirds, particularly when attempting species-recovery for island restoration. Identifying suitable nesting habitat is a keystone detail in seabird restoration which can be complicated when predator pressures impact colony productivity and population viability. The surface-nesting Kermadec Petrel Pterodroma neglecta neglecta is dispersed on remote islands through the tropics and subtropics. We examined their breeding ecology on Phillip Island, Norfolk Group in the South Pacific and considered the limitations to re-establishment at their previous breeding location on Lord Howe Island (900 km south-east). On Phillip Island, the petrels were mostly monogamous with nesting locations generally within the vicinity of the previous season's attempts. Breeding sites were limited to sloping terrain 182–228 m above the shoreline and up to 85 m from the coast in small sub-colonies under low scrubby woodland. Based on observations of 56 pairs and data gleaned from Global Light Sensing devices, we determined that breeding (incubation and provisioning) occurs in all calendar months of the year, with a laying peak in the late austral spring. Breeding success in the first year of study was 25% but improved to 56% once management of Purple Swamphens Porphyrio melanotus was implemented. Successful nests were located at sites with naturally limited egress from cleared or lightly vegetated areas. Prudent management of the petrel population on Phillip Island could aid in the regional recovery of the species and, in the process, assist the island's restoration by significantly increasing transfers of marine-derived nutrient. Their reintroduction to Lord Howe Island is also possible but will likely rely upon consistent productivity of the Phillip Island population for founding immigrants. Moreover, successful establishment will require adaptive management of selected sites to ensure native avian predators do not overly impact breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To understand mechanisms behind enigmatic declines of tropical reptiles, knowledge of species interactions and how they vary over space and time is important. Some tropical lizard population dynamics can be highly influenced by egg survival. Yet relatively few studies have examined relationships between lizard reproductive success and egg predators across forest and microhabitat types. In this study, we examined variation in probability of egg depredation, predatory ant abundance, prey availability, and the number of lizards and eggs encountered across four different forest types (abandoned agroforestry, abandoned plantation, secondary forest, and old-growth forest) and three microhabitats (buttress, fallen log, and leaf-litter) at La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica. Based on previous studies, we made three hypotheses about how lizard egg abundance, egg survival, and predatory ant numbers would be related across microhabitat and forest type. Of these hypotheses, only one was supported: we found more lizard eggs in buttress and fallen log microhabitats than leaf-litter. We did not observe any differences in lizard reproduction or numbers of invertebrates by forest type alone. Based on patterns observed in this study, we suggest that future studies investigating tropical leaf-litter lizard declines focus on environmental variation at the microhabitat scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Caribbean spiny lobster (Panulirus argus) fishery in Florida, valued at millions of dollars annually, relies mostly on wooden-slat traps baited with live, sublegal-size lobsters to attract legal-size individuals. However, this practice leads to confinement-related mortality due to starvation and depredation. We investigated the escape rates and mortality of bait lobsters using long-term deployable cameras, documenting behavior of bait lobsters in traps. Although previous research found that long-term confinement of these bait lobsters results in their poor health and mortality, these estimates of mortality relied on periodic observations of traps that could not differentiate causes and timing of mortality. To identify how the long-term confinement of bait lobsters affects their likelihood for escape or mortality, we deployed traps with one lobster for each of the following treatments: healthy/fed or starved for 2, 4, or 6 weeks. Long-term deployable cameras and infrared lights mounted on traps were used to observe the fate (i.e., escape or mortality) of these lobsters over a 2-week trap soak period typical in the fishery. We conducted 12 deployments of 103 total traps over 1 year and found that escape varied with duration of lobster starvation. Our study confirmed escape rates from past studies (1.26 ± 0.43 % of lobsters per day) and revealed "serial confinement," where escaped lobsters re-entered traps, potentially prolonging their confinement and mortality risk. Starvation, caused by long-term confinement, resulted in increased mortality, with smaller lobsters (<68 mm carapace length) facing higher risk of mortality. Video documentation allowed for the first time to differentiate between starvation mortality and depredation within traps; depredation by octopuses (Octopus briareus) and triggerfish (Ballistes spp.) posed a substantial threat, reducing trap catch efficiency. Our video documentation showed that the presence of dead lobsters in traps further decreased catch rates for the duration (∼5d) the carcass remained in the trap, underscoring the negative impact on fishery yield. Our findings emphasize the need for the fishery to explore management strategies to mitigate mortality of sublegal-size lobsters in traps due to long-term confinement, including trap reduction, use of escape gaps, and shorter trap soak times, akin to successful practices in other spiny lobster fisheries. The study highlights the utility of long-term deployable cameras in assessing trap functioning and catch dynamics, offering insights for sustainable management of Florida's lobster fishery while preserving its cultural and economic significance. ● Presence of a dead lobster reduced a trap's effective soak period by 33 %. ● Escape and carcass decay rates were similar to studies using periodic observations. ● Daily lobster catch rates decreased as soak time increased. ● Lobsters < 68 mm carapace length were at greater risk of starvation mortality. ● Escape was greater for the healthier lobsters and lowest for starved lobsters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]