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Drought linked to increased conflict between humans and wildlife in California: Study
Researchers analyzed nearly 32,000 reports and found drought-driven conflicts rose most among mountain lions, coyotes, and bobcats statewide, linking behavior changes to climate change.
- Researchers in California found prolonged drought linked to increased human-wildlife conflict, analyzing nearly 32,000 reports to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife from 2017–2023; mountain lions, coyotes and bobcats showed the strongest increases.
- Amid reduced precipitation, Kendall Calhoun said species seek water, expanding ranges; people report wildlife more, turning neutral sightings into conflict.
- A team developed a statistical method comparing precipitation changes with nearly 32,000 reports involving over 60 animal species, focusing on depredation, nuisance, and anticipatory sightings.
- The study suggests that drought-related behavioral shifts in wildlife and humans increase conflict, and the researchers said conflict with carnivores is a 'prominent conservation issue' impacting conservation policy and management.
- Integrating climate-change effects into wildlife management will address increased conflict, as Calhoun said, `There is definitely a relationship between climate change and human wildlife conflict here in California, and we can show that as droughts happen or as precipitation decreases.
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Total News Sources7
Leaning Left3Leaning Right0Center3Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Left, 50% Center
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources lean Left, 50% of the sources are Center
50% Center
L 50%
C 50%
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