… do humans cause disturbances to wildlife?

In these years of studying the interactions between prey, predators and human activities, we have come to understand that wild animals do not use space randomly. In fact, each species has its own ecological characteristics that make it more or less adapted to a certain type of environment. Factors that determine the use of space include the availability of food resources, the presence of refuge areas, climatic and geographical characteristics (e.g. slope and exposure), population density, the occurrence of disturbance factors and relationships with other species.

Do we realise the impact of our activities on wildlife? And if so, do we take steps to minimise this disturbance? We put these questions to some people who live and work in mountain areas: a breeder, an amateur hunter, a refuge manager and a nature guide.

As shown in the study by Francesca Rolle and in many other researches, when we want to understand how and why a given species uses the territory, it is necessary to consider a multiplicity of factors, which interact and overlap: from environmental characteristics, to the presence of other species with which it may interact (competition and predation) and, last but not least, human presence. Human activities (including hiking, or the mere presence of people) play a fundamental role, capable of conditioning the distribution and frequentation of a given habitat and also the relationships between species.

Then isn’t it possible to take a walk in the woods or up in the mountains!?

Absolutely, it is possible! All we have to do is find a balance that allows us visitors to have an exciting experience, while minimising disturbance to the fauna and, why not, also bringing a real benefit to the local communities.

To make the most of these experiences, guidelines have been developed as part of the LIFE WolfAlps EU project with the aim of providing guidance for responsible tourism practices that minimise the impact on wolves and wildlife in general. The manual reviews all possible methods, from tracking to simulated howling to direct observation, and for each one suggests the best times and ways to develop the activity.

Download the “Non-consumptive use of wolf in tourism: guidelines for responsible practice”, dedicated to all those who want to hike in nature in a respectful manner, contributing to the preservation of biodiversity.