Conservation charisma is not a guarantee for local recognition and significance: evidence from local knowledge of the corncrake (Crex crex) in Romania

Local ecological knowledge (LEK) holders often differ from the scientific and conservation mainstream in their approaches and priorities regarding nature conservation. In particular, the perceived charisma and symbolic value of protected species may vary substantially between conservation institutions and local communities. This study examines local ecological knowledge and perceptions related to the corncrake ( Crex crex ), a conservation flagship species inhabiting traditional/extensive cultural landscapes. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 40 local community members in the Ciuc (Csíki) and Gheorgheni (Gyergyói) Basins, Romania. Interviews were transcribed, coded and analysed to examine respondents’ local ecological knowledge (LEK), as well as variation in LEK using Non-metric Multidimensional Scaling (NMDS) and PERMANOVA. The precision and depth of LEK varied considerably among interviewees and across different aspects of corncrake ecology. Respondents with direct personal experience of the species tended to provide more detailed accounts. Species behaviour and visibility were among the most ambiguously described features, suggesting occasional misidentification. Surprisingly, almost half of the interviewees were unfamiliar with the species’ characteristic call. Although many farmers identified several risks, including early and mechanized mowing, they generally did not perceive the species as threatened and considered unmown meadow margins and fallow lands to provide sufficient refuge. Emotional attachment to the corncrake also varied widely, ranging from cherished childhood memories to the complete denial of any particular significance. Our findings suggest that the corncrake’s conservation high charisma does not necessarily translate into local recognition or awareness, despite long-standing conservation-related compensation schemes. We argue that conservation initiatives should engage with existing local knowledge systems, traditional practices and biocultural values, moving beyond purely economic instruments to support more enduring conservation commitments.