Stakeholder perceptions of human–predator conflict in the South African fly-fishing industry

Abstract

Human–wildlife conflict in African aquaculture and fisheries is poorly understood. We investigated this conflict through a questionnaire aimed at owners and managers of fly-fishing properties in South Africa. While perceptions of losses varied, all respondents reported losses to predators. Resulting mitigation measures, including lethal control, were employed mostly against cormorants (Phalacrocorax spp.) and otters (Aonyx capensis and Hydrictis maculicollis). Given that fly-fishing properties potentially provide valuable habitat for protected species such as otters, our results highlight a need for improved mitigation measures and exploring alternative options of potentially generating income from tourism associated with the presence of charismatic predators.