Exploring differences in stakeholders\u2019 perceptions of illegal bird trapping in Cyprus

Heather M Jenkins,Christos Mammides,Aidan Keane

doi:10.1186/s13002-017-0194-3

Heather M Jenkins, Christos Mammides + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1186/s13002-017-0194-3

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Abstract

BackgroundCyprus is recognised as a hotspot for illegal bird trapping in the Mediterranean basin. A consumer demand for the Eurasian blackcap (Sylvia atricapilla) is driving the use of non-selective trapping methods, resulting in the indiscriminate killing of millions of migratory birds. Efforts to tackle the issue have so far been characterised mostly by a top-down approach, focusing on legislation and enforcement. However, trapping levels are not decreasing and conflict between stakeholder groups is intensifying.MethodsTo understand why efforts to stop illegal bird trapping have not been effective, we used semi-structured interviews to interview 18 local bird trappers and nine representatives from the pertinent environmental non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the governmental agencies responsible for enforcing the legislation.ResultsWe found distinct differences between the views of the local trapping community and the environmental NGOs, particularly on why trapping is occurring and its impact on the avifauna. This disparity has contributed to misrepresentations of both sides and a high degree of conflict, which is potentially proving counterproductive to conservation interventions. In addition, it appears that trappers are a heterogeneous group, likely driven by various motivations besides profit.ConclusionWe argue that stakeholders interested in reducing illegal bird trapping need to develop anti-poaching strategies that aim at minimising the disparity in the views, and subsequently the conflict, acknowledging also that trappers are not a homogenous group, as often treated.

Highlights

Cyprus is recognised as a hotspot for illegal bird trapping in the Mediterranean basin
Throughout the Mediterranean, people have benefitted from the hunting of migratory birds for centuries [6], and today, both legal and illegal hunting activities result in millions of birds being shot or trapped each year as they migrate between Africa and Europe [5]
Most advocate for zero tolerance and stricter law enforcement [10], and treat local trappers as a homogenous group, driven by the same motives, mostly conducting an illegal activity on a large scale merely for profit. It is evident from the responses of the local trappers, the representatives of the environmental non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the management agencies, that the human dimensions of the issue of illegal bird trapping in Cyprus are complex and conflicting

Summary

Introduction

Cyprus is recognised as a hotspot for illegal bird trapping in the Mediterranean basin. A range of international legal instruments and frameworks have been adopted to monitor and conserve wild bird populations [5], but have not yet proven successful in addressing the problem [8] It is unclear whether this lack of success points towards the need for the current top-down enforcement strategies to be strengthened, as some stakeholders advocate [9, 10], or for a more holistic approach to be adopted—that aims to engage local communities. This dilemma largely relates to the on-going debate of how best to tackle the widespread illegal trade in wildlife [11], where increasing voices from the conservation

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