Co-existence and land sharing lead to rise in European wildlife populations

wolf wildlife populations
Populations of large carnivores in Europe are not only steady for the first time in a century – but may be rising.

Brown bear, wolf, Eurasian lynx and wolverine populations were examined in the study, which involved 26 studies and 76 authors and published in the journal Science.

In coverage from The Guardian, study lead author Guilluame Chapron pointed to a model of conservation they call ‘land-sharing’ as a large part of the successful recovery.

“I’m not saying it’s a peace and love story – coexistence often means conflict – but it’s important to manage that conflict, keep it at a low level and resolve the problems it causes. Wolves can be difficult neighbours,” Chapron told The Guardian. “We shouldn’t be talking about people-predator conflict; we have conflict between people about predators. These animals are symbolic of difficult questions about how we should use the land.”

Allowing growth of prey species such as deer and providing financial support for non-lethal livestock protection “such as electric fences, which mean that farmers do not resort to shooting wild predators” have played a significant role.

The need for large carnivores really doesn’t need to be explained today – ample evidence of their vital role in bio-diversity stands on its own. But it does show the need for a united voice – from individual voters to national animal advocacy organizations like The Association for the Protection of Fur-Bearing Animals.

We can peacefully live with wildlife. We can have a beautiful ecology and a healthy economy. We can protect fur-bearing animals and the lands on which they live – if we stand together.


You can help us educate consumers and protect fur-bearing animals through our #MakeFurHistory and Living With Wildlife campaigns by donating, becoming a monthly donor or signing up as a member today.

Help Make A Difference

Join The Fur-Bearers today and help us protect fur-bearing animals in the wild and confinement. To become a monthly donor (for as little as $10/month – the cost of two lattes) please click here and help us save lives today. Your donation is tax-deductible.

Tags

Latest Posts

Defender Radio

00.00
Listen To The Latest
  • Listen To The Latest

About Us

Established in 1953, The Fur-Bearers is a charitable, non-partisan organization whose goals are to end the commercial fur trade and promote solutions for wildlife coexistence in communities. Your donation is tax-deductible. Charitable registration number: 130006125RR0002

Pin It on Pinterest

Scroll to Top