Wildlife acceptance capacity in a changing human–wildlife coexistence landscape: a systematic literature review

Wildlife Acceptance Capacity (WAC) has become an important concept for integrating human dimensions into wildlife management, yet its conceptual evolution and application remain uneven. This study addresses three research questions: How has WAC evolved temporally and spatially? How have its definitions, theoretical foundations, and operational approaches evolved over time? What conceptual and geographic gaps remain? We conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed literature using the Search, Appraisal, Synthesis, and Analysis approach. Results indicate two primary phases: an initial dormant phase (1988–2000) and a subsequent expansion phase characterized by empirical application and stronger theoretical underpinning. WAC research increasingly incorporates related constructs and draws on behavioral theories, with acceptance frequently operationalized through attitudinal and intention-based measures. However, research remains concentrated in high Human Development Index countries. Greater conceptual integration and cross-regional collaboration may strengthen the global relevance of WAC for wildlife policy and management.