Beyond dichotomies: unravelling the nuances of local perceptions of the striped hyaena Hyaena hyaena in West Bengal, India

Human–carnivore relationships are complex and shaped by a multitude of socio-ecological factors. Unfortunately, human interactions with smaller, non-charismatic, solitary and elusive species remain largely overlooked. Here, we examined community perceptions towards the understudied striped hyaena Hyaena hyaena in West Bengal, India. The region has multi-use habitats shared between people and carnivores. We employed a mixed-methods approach to analyse 104 semi-structured interviews and found that local residents were less familiar with the striped hyaena’s ecology compared to other sympatric carnivores. Confusion around its identity and several misconceptions about its behaviour, including its scavenging habits, were prevalent. Two contrasting cultural identities were ascribed to the species: Gaadha , the harmless scavenger with a fearless demeanour, and Kuia , the ferocious hunter that attacks humans. Infrequent human–hyaena interactions, coupled with the influence of legends, folklore, hearsay and chance negative encounters, have probably augmented people’s misperceptions about the species. Opportunities for conservation interventions to foster human–hyaena coexistence in these shared spaces exist and need urgent attention.