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Human–Wildlife Interactions and Coexistence in an Urban Desert Environment

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  • Kelli L. Larson

    (School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
    School of Sustainability, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA)

  • Jose-Benito Rosales Chavez

    (School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA)

  • Jeffrey A. Brown

    (Department of Biology, La Salle University, Philadelphia, PA 19141, USA)

  • Jorge Morales-Guerrero

    (School of Sustainability, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA)

  • Dayanara Avilez

    (School of Sustainability, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA)

Abstract

Negative interactions between people and wildlife pose a significant challenge to their coexistence. Past research on human–wildlife interactions has largely focused on conflicts involving carnivores in rural areas. Additional research is needed in urban areas to examine the full array of negative and positive interactions between people and wildlife. In this study, we have conducted interviews in the desert metropolis of Phoenix, Arizona (USA), to explore residents’ everyday interactions with wildlife where they live. Our multifaceted approach examines interactions involving physical contact and observational experiences, as well as associated attitudinal and behavioral responses and actions toward wildlife. Overall, the qualitative analysis of residents’ narratives identified two distinct groups: people who are indifferent toward wildlife where they live, and those who appreciate and steward wildlife. Instead of revealing conflicts and negative interactions toward wildlife, our findings underscore the positive interactions that can foster human wellbeing in urban areas. The holistic approach presented herein can advance knowledge and the management of coexistence, which involves not only managing conflicts but also tolerance, acceptance, and stewardship. Understanding diverse human–wildlife interactions and managing coexistence can advance both wildlife conservation and human wellbeing in cities.

Suggested Citation

  • Kelli L. Larson & Jose-Benito Rosales Chavez & Jeffrey A. Brown & Jorge Morales-Guerrero & Dayanara Avilez, 2023. "Human–Wildlife Interactions and Coexistence in an Urban Desert Environment," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(4), pages 1-15, February.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:4:p:3307-:d:1065004
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Kirsten M. M. Beyer & Andrea Kaltenbach & Aniko Szabo & Sandra Bogar & F. Javier Nieto & Kristen M. Malecki, 2014. "Exposure to Neighborhood Green Space and Mental Health: Evidence from the Survey of the Health of Wisconsin," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 11(3), pages 1-20, March.
    2. Goddard, Mark A. & Dougill, Andrew J. & Benton, Tim G., 2013. "Why garden for wildlife? Social and ecological drivers, motivations and barriers for biodiversity management in residential landscapes," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 86(C), pages 258-273.
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