Coexistence and conflict: Exploring the dynamics of traditional livestock farming and wildlife in the community conserved area, Hyrcanian region

The Chelav Community Conserved Area, located along the southern Caspian Sea, hosts 39 livestock farms. Despite the pressures of traditional farming, the ecosystem remains vibrant, with an increase in leopard and bear sightings but a decline in wolf populations over the past 20 years. Ranchers have reported more frequent leopard and bear encounters, while wolf sightings have decreased. Approximately 94.87% of respondents express indifference toward leopard and bear attacks, and 89.74% feel the same about wolf attacks. Although most ranchers are indifferent, 10.25% indicated they would kill wolves that repeatedly attack their livestock. The presence of shepherds and guard dogs has been shown to reduce wildlife attacks, with shepherds notably more effective at deterring leopards compared to wolves. The absence of livestock bells has been linked to increased leopard and wolf attacks (p-value < 0.01). Inconsistent protective measures have likely allowed carnivores to remain in the area, as there are few reports of livestock attacks in adjacent basins. This study underscores the necessity for sustainable coexistence strategies that protect both local livelihoods and wildlife in the Chelav region.