“Entre predadores”: o lugar dos humanos, do lince ibérico e de outros carnívoros selvagens

Abstract

Using an ethnoecological approach we studied perceptions, empirical classifications and practices towards wild predators in Portuguese protected areas. Results from 131 semi-structured interviews allowed the analysis of classification, criteria used by key actors and the understanding of an emic perspective on the differentiation of the natural world. Further analysis and data from observation reveal local ecological knowledge associated with characteristics of carnivores. Oral memories about coexistence of humans with wolf and lynx in the late 20 th century in Baixo Alentejo are described. Humans are recognized as one of the predators in a complex and apparent dualistic view of domestic and wild realms associated with past control practices. In its reintroduction area the threatened Iberian lynx raised much interest locally and after being classified as an "outsider" it became the centre of touristification. This case study characterizes a European rural scenario "among predators" where nature conservation is facing challenges and Anthropology has an opportunity of interdisciplinary application.

To be or not to be a superpredator: a multidisciplinary assessment of the Iberian lynx in a reintroduction social scenario

“…The red fox is one of the most common carnivores in Mediterranean ecosystems, widespread in areas where the lynx is being reintroduced. Socially, it became of practically no value for hunting purposes, and it is often controlled as vermin through trapping (e.g., Lopes-Fernandes et al 2022a, 2022b. The interest of hunting managers and guards in fox control, a common practice throughout lynx's occurrence areas, converges with its territorial superpredator behaviour.…”

Observando o topo da cadeia alimentar: A dinâmica do turismo de predadores de topo em áreas protegidas

“…However, observing these animals in their natural habitat has the potential to change how they are perceived. Many of these predators are aesthetically appreciated for their beauty, attracting tourists interested in natural experiences (Lopes-Fernandes et al, 2022). More than a mere aesthetic experience, ecotourism focused on top predators can foster environmental education, sensitizing tourists to the need for conservation of these species and contributing to a more positive perception of these animals .…”

“…There is a current trend to reconsider hunting as a source of revenue, particularly when natural superpredators such as the lynx are reintroduced to their habitats, reducing the need for active management of prey populations through hunting. Movements against the killing of animals are gaining momentum, and traditional practices, such as the display of hunting trophies, are being replaced by nature photographs (Lopes-Fernandes et al, 2022).…”