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Conserving\u00a0predators is important because of their role in ecosystem structure, function,\u00a0and processes, as well as their potential to serve as umbrella species for\nwider biodiversity.\u00a0 Carnivores also\u00a0provide cultural and social value, and are often used as conservation icons or\u00a0flagship species for conservation efforts.\u00a0 Yet, coexistence in multi-use landscapes remains a challenge because\u00a0carnivores often conflict with humans and human land uses by destroying\u00a0livestock, property, and threatening public safety.\u00a0 In Alberta, carnivore conflict is\u00a0greatest in the southwestern corner where carnivore home ranges substantially\u00a0overlap ranching. Understandably, such conflicts are a huge concern for local\u00a0residents, livestock producers, and the provincial staff tasked with managing\u00a0these conflicts.\u00a0 Developing a\u00a0better understanding of the type, source, and spatial distribution patterns\u00a0driving carnivore-ranching conflicts is critical to developing mitigation\u00a0programs capable of effectively reducing conflicts and maintaining large\u00a0carnivores on the landscape.\u00a0\u00a0 The most successful mitigation programs are likely to be those that\u00a0start with a clear understanding of the types and spatial patterning of\u00a0regional carnivore-human conflicts, use methods palatable to local communities,\u00a0and provide a mechanism for monitoring the response to various mitigation\u00a0efforts.<\/p>\n
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