Shepherds View of Large Carnivore Recovery in the Pyrenees, Spain

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Wildlife Management
• Ecology

Background:

• Small family farms are crucial for mountain ecosystems but face challenges.
• Traditional livestock management practices are employed year-round.
• Existing infrastructure is inadequate for effective herd management and care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the challenges faced by small family farms in mountain regions.
• To understand the human-wildlife conflicts in these areas.
• To evaluate current livestock protection measures.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative assessment of farm infrastructure and management.
• Identification of wildlife species interacting with livestock.
• Documentation of farmer-implemented predator prevention strategies.

Main Results:

• Over half of the farms' continuity is uncertain.
• Conflicts exist with wildlife including wild boar, roe deer, griffon vultures, brown bears, and grey wolves.
• Mastiff dogs and electric fencing are primary but insufficient protection measures.

Conclusions:

• Farmers perceive bears and wolves as significant threats to their livelihood.
• There is a need for improved infrastructure and integrated wildlife management strategies.
• The economic viability of these farms is vulnerable to human-wildlife coexistence challenges.