Resolving the Conservationist’s Dilemma:

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Several populations of wild geese in Scotland have risen from historic lows in the mid-twentieth century, writing a conservation success story of increased habitat protection and decreased persecution. However, the growing numbers of these geese species, primarily greylag (Anser anser) and barnacle (Branta leucopsis) geese, have increasingly impacted farmers on whose land the flocks will graze. Pasture intended for livestock and arable crops destined for animal or human mouths can be destroyed quickly by the highly mobile geese which soon become accustomed to many scaring efforts. Finding a balance between protection of the geese and protection of the crops causes a conservation conflict involving multiple parties; farmers, land managers, conservation organisations, wildfowl shooters, and the government.

 

In an attempt to address the conflict in the most affected areas of Scotland, efforts involving coordinated scaring, culling and or compensation are being funded by the Scottish Government. Although most parties welcome the management efforts, disagreement remains on the intent, methods and success of the projects.

 

We are investigating the interactions within and between the different parties involved in Scottish goose conflict. Using ideas from game theory to find out when, how and why individuals cooperate means we can help people work together even when the uncertainties of nature, economics and politics abound.

 

Where?

Across Scotland, UK; including the Outer Hebrides and the Orkney Islands

 

What species?

People!

Greylag goose (Anser anser)

Barnacle goose (Branta leucopsis)

 

Who's involved?

Chris R J Pollard (University of Stirling)

Nils Bunnefeld (University of Stirling)

Aidan Keane (University of Edinburgh)

Steve Redpath (University of Aberdeen)

Des Thompson (Scottish Natural Heritage)

Juliette Young (Centre for Ecology & Hydrology)

Jeremy Cusack (University of Stirling)

Saro Rakotonarivo (University of Stirling)