Percepção de moradores no assentamento campo agrícola em Valença do Piauí sobre as relações conflitantes com a fauna de vertebrados local

Abstract

The Interaction between humans and animals throughout history demonstrates a variety of uses, such as food and the manufacturing of personal objects, resulting in the domestication and selective breeding of certain species. However, attitudes related to the exploitation of wild animals through human action still persist, leading to conflicts between modern humans and wildlife. The importance of studies in this area for the conservation of local fauna and the prevention of potential imbalances in ecosystems is evident. Given this context, the aim of this work was to document the actions that directly influence these conflicts in the community of Valença do Piauí, located in northeastern Brazil. The research was conducted between 2022 and 2023, through questionnaires and images of animals identified as possible causes of crop damage, attacks on domestic animals, and threats to the population. The sample consisted of 20 residents from the agricultural settlement, most of whom had low family income (less than 500 per month) and limited educational diversity, resulting in a restricted understanding of the economic impacts related to the conflicts. The residents reported various strategies to avoid conflicts, such as management measures and capturing animals considered dangerous. However, there was a pre-existing scientific ignorance about the species involved, leading to hasty responses and the death of animals important to the ecosystem. In light of these findings, it is essential to promote adequate environmental education, aiming to understand the importance of different species and implementing proper conflict management