The Future of Human-Carnivore Co-Existence: Understanding Knowledge and Attitude Towards Wild Carnivores Among Students in Higher Education from Kargil Trans-Himalayas, India

Ali, Iftikar

Abstract

Several studies have reflected that the success of wildlife conservation approaches and efforts is determined by local people's awareness and attitude toward the target wildlife species. It is critical to have a favorable attitude of the local communities toward wildlife for implementing successful conservation efforts that involve public participation. We conducted this study in Kargil trans-Himalayas, India to understand the knowledge and attitude of local students studying in higher education towards wildlife. To achieve the objectives of this study, an online semi-structured questionnaire was framed and circulated among students from Kargil in higher education studying in Kargil and other parts of India. The total knowledge score for the respondents ranged from 3 to 12 out of 12, with a mean score of 9.68 ±1.565. Students in higher education from Kargil also possessed a favorable attitude towards the wild carnivores of the region. The correlation though weak, reflected that the increase in knowledge of the wildlife of the region increases the favorable attitude of students in higher education towards wildlife. The knowledge and attitudes of local students towards wild carnivore species must be considered for efficient long-term conservation approaches and efforts. This shall be accomplished by timely sustainable conservation education and awareness initiatives. Although this study tries to explore an important factor to be considered in conservation efforts, from a less explored region in the trans-Himalayas, there is a great need for intensive studies, in the future, to understand and implement concrete conservation action plans in the region.

• Online Publication Date: Jul 2, 2023
• Publication Date: Jul 2, 2023
• Deposit Date: Jan 23, 2025
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.17866/rd.salford.23608305.v1
• Publisher URL: https://salford.figshare.com/articles/poster/The_Future_of_Human-Carnivore_Co-Existence_Understanding_Knowledge_and_Attitude_Towards_Wild_Carnivores_Among_Students_in_Higher_Education_from_Kargil_Trans-Himalayas_India/23608305
• Collection Date: Jul 2, 2023