Understanding deer management dilemmas: A mixed methods approach to understand diverse stakeholder values in human-wildlife conflicts

Abstract Wildlife conservation and management is evolving to address new challenges that encompass diverse socio-economic, political, and ecological demands. The traditional expert-driven approach has shifted towards an inclusive stakeholder-driven form of management, necessitating multidisciplinary research and stakeholder input. Modern wildlife management therefore requires the bridging of research and practice, with policymakers balancing the needs of stakeholders and evidence to implement robust systems of management. To understand the challenges of wildlife management in the face of stakeholder conflict, we undertook a multidisciplinary study of stakeholder views focusing on deer management in Ireland as an example. The highest ranked issues identified related to increasing deer numbers were biodiversity loss and road traffic accidents risk. However, there was evidence that importance ranking depended on persons landownership status, their self-identified background (urban or rural), or what country they came from (Ireland vs. other). The ranking of management options and impediments to progress also varied by stakeholder type (e.g. hunters; farmers). However, there was large degree of consensus on culling being an important management tool and collaboration as a means of overcoming obstacles. Qualitative analysis highlighted six core themes, including the perceived problems from excessive deer populations, the need for better management systems, and differing views on state and non-state actors responsibility for deer problems. By employing both quantitative and qualitative methodologies, our study provides a comprehensive understanding of stakeholder perspectives on deer management. This mixed-methods approach highlighted the divergent priorities of stakeholders, influenced by their backgrounds and values, particularly on key areas of human-wildlife conflict surrounding these species. While common ground was found in identifying key impacts and management solutions, the need for enhanced collaboration and tailored strategies emerged as critical. Finally, we discuss how drawing lessons from successful models in other jurisdictions, and investing in research, monitoring, and education, is essential for designing future effective and sustainable wildlife management in Ireland. This study examines how conflicting stakeholder values can exacerbate human-wildlife conflict. However, by understanding these issues thoroughly, targeted monitoring and management systems can be designed to alleviate conflict.