Observation and estimation of urbanizing mammal predators by resident population living in two villages in Somogy county

Abstract

Everyday estimation of carnivores living in settlements was investigated by a questionnaire survey in two villages in Somogy County (Kisgyalán n=52, Fonó n=45 schedules). In the inquired settlements, the animal husbandry (mainly poultry and pig) and horticulture is typical. Most of the inquired reporters observed carnivores directly at their homes, most frequently red fox (Vulpes vulpes), occasionally stone marten (Martes foina), rarely weasel (Mustela nivalis) or polecat (Mustela putorius). The occurrence of damaging was different in the two villages (58% vs. 33%, P<0.05). The damaging was casual and was mainly experienced in the poultry stock, of a mean value of 3.000 HUF. Most of the inquired reporters protected themselves against carnivores (mainly with alarm), but it remained in most cases without any results. The study emphasized the deficiency of the management of predators living in settlements and the juridical regulation problems. The authors made proposals for possible solution possibilities.