Lethal Control, Tradition, and Politics: Anthropocentric Large Carnivore Management in Western Canada
Date
2018-05-04
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Abstract
Contemporary large carnivore management in North America employs a variety of lethal management practices, some of which are beginning to garner public and scientific scrutiny. These practices are questioned from an ethical and animal welfare perspective, leading some to call for a shift to a compassionate conservation approach. From a pragmatic perspective, mounting scientific evidence questions the efficacy of many of these practices. To better understand which tools are used to manage carnivores and why, I interviewed wildlife managers across Alberta, British Columbia, and the Yukon, including provincial or territorial wildlife managers, Parks Canada biologists, and conservation practitioners working for environmental non-governmental organizations (ENGOs). Interviews were semi-structured, covering a broad range of topics related to carnivore management. Transcribed interviews were coded in NVivo to identify trends and themes in carnivore management. Interviews confirmed a preponderance of lethal management techniques and identified a prioritization of hunting and industrial land-use by provincial and territorial governments. Managers acknowledged the inefficacy of some management techniques (e.g. bounties, hunting), but often tolerated or valued these as means to placate members of the public. Lethal management was often rationalized as acceptable for “resilient” carnivore species (e.g. wolves, coyotes), demonstrating a priority for maintaining sustainable populations. While managers expressed concern over animal suffering, they felt that ethical questions were reserved for politicians and members of the public. In order to maintain sustainable wildlife populations, wildlife habitat must be managed. However, managers discussed their lack of involvement in land-use decisions, particularly with regard to oil and gas leases in Alberta. In general, industrial development is frequently prioritized over even critical wildlife habitat, limiting managers from their ability to manage sustainable populations. Agriculture and forestry are also frequently prioritized over wildlife habitat. Managers described resorting to manipulating other species’ populations in a reactionary manner, as a result of these political influences. Managers suggested a need for members of the Canadian public to become more aware and vocal about how they value wildlife. Greater involvement and prioritization of wildlife and wild spaces amongst the citizenry could generate greater political will to improve wildlife regulations and plan implementation.
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wildlife management, large carnivores, hunting and trapping, Qualitative Analysis, land use
Citation
Lukasik, V. M. (2018). Lethal Control, Tradition, and Politics: Anthropocentric Large Carnivore Management in Western Canada (Doctoral thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/31908