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. 2019 Aug 6;17(8):e3000386.
doi: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3000386. eCollection 2019 Aug.

Expanding beyond carnivores to improve livestock protection and conservation

Shari L Rodriguez  1   2 , Christie Sampson  1   2
Affiliations

Expanding beyond carnivores to improve livestock protection and conservation

Shari L Rodriguez et al. PLoS Biol. .

Abstract

Promoting human-wildlife coexistence is critical to the long-term conservation of many wild animal species that come into conflict with humans. Loss of livestock to carnivore species (e.g., lions, tigers, wolves) is a well-documented occurrence and the focus of mitigation strategies around the world. One area that has received little research is the impact of noncarnivores on livestock. Both African and Asian elephant species are known to cause livestock injuries and deaths. Livestock owners within elephant ranges perceive elephants as a risk to their livestock, which may reduce their tolerance towards elephants and jeopardize conservation efforts in the area. Though feral hogs may not be of conservation concern, these animals contribute significant losses to farmers' livelihoods. We advocate for the inclusion of noncarnivore species in policies that promote livestock protection because it will allow for better communication regarding effective strategies and more application in the field.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Figures

Fig 1
Fig 1. Potential impacts of feral hogs and elephants on livestock owners.
Fig 2
Fig 2. Feral hog eating a lamb in Australia.
Photo credit: Dr. Peter Heise-Pavlov.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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