Human dimensions of timber rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) management to reduce human-wildlife conflict

Abstract

ABSTRACT Human-wildlife interactions are common across fragmented exurban landscapes. To date, most human dimensions research on human-wildlife conflict has focused on large mammalian carnivores, with less attention to smaller, less-charismatic species. Two isolated populations of state-endangered timber rattlesnakes (Crotalus horridus) remain in Connecticut, USA. Our objective was to assess current management, outreach, and collaboration activities associated with an exurban timber rattlesnake population. We conducted qualitative, semi-structured interviews with 16 stakeholders involved with timber rattlesnake management. Results suggested that although forest management does not focus on timber rattlesnakes specifically, participants generally were satisfied with current ecological monitoring practices. Land acquisition and the efforts of volunteers were emphasized as crucial aspects of management and public outreach success. Collaboration associated with timber rattlesnake management has achieved positive outcomes but lacks landscape-level coordination. Paired with ecological efforts, landscape-level leadership offers opportunity for shared resources and recruitment of volunteers to relieve associated capacity constraints.