Recognizing the benefits of large carnivore presence in Slovenia

In recent decades, populations of the brown bear, grey wolf, and Eurasian lynx in Europe have made a significant recovery. This success is largely attributable to effective legislation, an increase in prey species, and the expansion of forested areas. As a result, large carnivores are gradually returning to regions from which they had long been absent. However, the return of these predators also brings challenges for local communities. While much research emphasizes conflicts and damages, this study focuses on the often-overlooked positive perspectives held by key stakeholder groups in Slovenia. Through focus group interviews with hunters, farmers, tourism workers, and artists, the study explores the benefits of large carnivore presence using the framework of Cultural Ecosystem Services (CES), based on the CICES classification. Tourism professionals perceive the presence of large carnivores as a key advantage for the development of tourism. For hunters, encounters with these animals provide opportunities to deepen their ecological knowledge, develop tracking skills, and share this expertise with pride within their communities. Some farmers, despite experiencing livestock losses, acknowledge the role of predators in regulating populations of wild herbivores. Artists experience large carnivores as a source of inspiration and as an opportunity to foster better interpersonal relationships and social dialogue. Recognizing the benefits and values that different stakeholder groups attribute to large carnivores can support the development of more inclusive conservation strategies, strengthen dialogue with stakeholders, and shift the focus from conflict mitigation toward fostering coexistence.