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It is more critical than ever that we, as humans, do what we can to ensure a healthy ecosystem and future for all wildlife on our planet. By working together, we can create shared habitats and a harmonious balance that allows people and wildlife to thrive.
Human-wildlife conflict occurs when the needs and behaviors of wildlife and people in a shared habitat are at odds with each other. This can lead to challenges that threaten the wellbeing of animals, people, and the ecosystem. The resulting conflict can take many forms, such as crop and livestock loss, retaliative killings of wildlife, car strikes, or a general misunderstanding of nature and wildlife.
As human populations expand further into wild spaces, the need for understanding, empathy, and behavior change is vital. Coexistence emphasizes strategies for peaceful conflict reduction techniques like non-lethal deterrents, wildlife corridors, and community-centered wildlife education. By promoting coexistence, we can reduce the total negative impacts of human-wildlife conflict and foster a world where wildlife is valued and protected alongside human needs.
It takes a fine balance of wildlife to maintain a healthy ecosystem that can benefit humans and the planet.
Not only do we feel it in our bones, but numerous scientific studies have shown the benefits to human happiness from being in nature and seeing wildlife. It is our responsibility for future generations to ensure there are healthy ecosystems where humans live alongside wildlife.
For many, living alongside wildlife can be challenging. One of the best actions that we can take is to learn about and understand the challenges that those who share their habitats with animals experience.
Our empathy and community engagement are key to creating a global culture that values living alongside wildlife. The best solutions are those that incorporate communities, traditional knowledge, science, and imagination.
Fortunately, when we learn that small efforts and simple life changes can support communities, ecosystems, and the animals they love—we join efforts that ensure a thriving planet.
Everyone can be a part of coexistence solutions that help our native wildlife thrive and reduce wildlife challenges in our urban landscape.
Wild animals often get into human trash and become reliant on human-provided food.
Dispose of your waste properly and ensure that trash is secured to prevent access by animals.
Domestic pets can be injured by coyotes at home and on walks.
Keep your pets secured, especially at dawn and dusk, and ensure they are safely indoors at night.
The use of rodenticides leads to harm for both wildlife and pets.
Avoid using rodenticides and opt for natural pest control solutions instead.
See how Oakland Zoo is taking action to protect mountain lions. Conservation efforts »
Fast driving causes strikes that injure or kill black bears.
Drive slowly in areas with wildlife activity.
See how Oakland Zoo is taking action to protect black bears. Conservation efforts »
Oakland Zoo has a long history of supporting human-wildlife coexistence efforts for dozens of species around the globe. We support projects that address the issues at the root of the problem by working with communities that are directly impacted, providing them with a platform, and implementing interdisciplinary strategies to find long-term solutions.
Coexisting with wildlife is also being thoughtful about how we interact with wildlife. Learn what to do if you see wildlife that might need help.
Agriculture and farming needs land. Unfortunately this often means wild forests will be removed to make way for farming. The palm oil issue is a key example of this conflict. Sun bears, gibbons, tigers, chimpanzees all throughout the globe are impacted by their habitats disappearing to palm oil plantations.
When at Oakland Zoo, stop by the kiosk in the rainforest or the gift shop to buy paper Kibale Beads. Your purchase supports coexistence efforts for chimpanzees, provides a livelihood for women in Uganda, and helps the planet.
The gift shop at Oakland Zoo helps to support our conservation commitment to wolves with the Round Up for Wolves program. When you make a purchase at the gift shop, you can round up your total at checkout—the additional amount goes to save gray wolves.
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