Wildlife poisoning in Crete and the intentions of local interest groups to engage in anti-poisoning actions

Abstract

In the mountains of Crete, a significant number of animals are poisoned each year. The largest of the Greek islands, Crete is home to significantly large pasture and hunting areas. In an effort to address wildlife poisoning, structured interviews were conducted with specific social groups (hunters, livestock farmers, environmental officers, veterinarians) relating to wildlife poisoning in Crete to explore their intention to engage in anti-poisoning actions. The survey was conducted from early 2013 to mid-2014 and a total of 415 people were surveyed. Survey results indicate that although barriers in effective biodiversity governance have created mistrust between local environmental authorities and local residents, the main social groups related to illegal use of poisoned baits are willing to support alternative methods to address predation impacts. This paper points out the clear need for social learning strategies aimed at local interest groups and for opportunities for more meaningful and democratic environmental policy processes in order to sustain the results of biodiversity conservation plans in the long term.