Local Attitude and Knowledge of Native and Non-Native Wild Animals,With an Emphasis on Invasive Mammals: A Case Study Inside and Outside a Protected Area in the Drylands of Argentina

Abstract

The presence of invasive non-native species, their relationship with humans, and their management are processes that must be addressed from a social–ecological perspective. This study aimed at exploring the attitudes and knowledge of puestero families (rural farmers) toward native and non-native wild animals in the Monte–Patagonia ecoregions, southern region of Mendoza Province, Argentina. We worked in two communities: one within a protected area and another without in a village. We conducted 38 free listings and semistructured interviews (20 in the protected area and 18 in the village). We calculated the cognitive salience index for each free listing, used Likert-type scaling to determine Kellert valuations regarding wildlife, and employed multiple-choice questions to assess attitudes and knowledge about invasive mammals. In the free lists, 37 wildlife species were named (range: 5–11 species/list), with carnivores being the relatively most important. In the protected area, puestero families displayed esthetic (90%) and naturalistic (75%) valuations, while in the village, dominant valuations predominated (90%). While attitudes toward non-natives European hare and European rabbit ranged from indifferent to moderately positive depending on the site and perceived damage, the wild boar was viewed as a harmful and problematic species, particularly in the protected area. This study links the values of puestero families to their attitudes and knowledge regarding wildlife, highlighting the need to consider these valuations when designing integrated management programs for invasive mammals.