Abstract ID: 3.11872 | Accepted as Talk | Talk/Oral | TBA | TBA

Addressing human-wolf conflict is essential, yet traditional mitigation strategies often fail to consider the broader socio-economic difficulties confronted by mountainous livestock farming communities. Wolves are frequently blamed for more systemic challenges, including economic hardship, policy inadequacies, and rural depopulation. In this study, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 118 extensive livestock farmers (59 cattle and 59 sheep/goat farmers), grazing at altitudes ranging from 300 to 1920 m (average: 935m), with 78% engaging in short- or long-distance transhumance. We specifically explored: (a) farmer profiles and interactions with wolves, (b) professional challenges and suggested solutions, (c) reasons behind perceiving wolves as a primary problem, and (d) the influence of wolf presence on job dissatisfaction. Findings indicate that farmers have limited specialized education and low job satisfaction, particularly regarding income. Many struggle to hire or afford shepherds, with sheep/goat farmers facing the greatest difficulties. The poisoning of guardian dogs and dissatisfaction with the compensation system were common concerns. Major challenges included economic marginalization, wolf presence, climatic factors, insufficient grazing policies, infrastructure shortcomings, policy distrust, rural depopulation, and limited access to services. Farmers who viewed wolves as a primary threat tended to implement weaker preventive measures and move their herds seasonally over longer distances. Job dissatisfaction was linked to wolf presence, livestock type, and economic constraints. The study highlights that while wolves contribute to farmers’ challenges, economic and policy-related factors have a greater impact. Strengthening educational initiatives, implementing supportive policies, improving depredation prevention strategies, and ensuring fair compensation systems are critical for promoting sustainable livestock farming and coexistence with wolves in mountainous landscapes, where environmental and socio-economic challenges intersect. Addressing socio-economic difficulties, enhancing policies and assisting farmers in adapting to changing conditions will enable the livestock sector to thrive in mountain regions while reducing conflicts associated with wolves.