Coexisting with Wildlife

Research Themes

Coexisting with Wildlife

Our research explores the social dimensions of human-wildlife interactions, particularly when conservation generates conflict between social groups or between people and wildlife. We investigate how values, life experience, and social context can be better understood to find solutions that support both conservation outcomes and community wellbeing.

Wildlife Impact and The University of Queensland will collaborate to advance great ape conservation by examining understudied social and ecological dimensions of human–orangutan coexistence. The partnership will develop evaluation frameworks and monitoring protocols, analyse conflict, coexistence and policy data, assess community-based initiatives, and produce reports and publications to strengthen conservation theory and practice.

This project was a collaborative initiative between the Sunshine Coast Council and researchers to balance recreational use with the protection of significant environmental values. By understanding visitor patterns and attitudes, the project identifies management strategies to reconcile dog-related recreation with the conservation of local shorebird populations.

This project gathers information from local landholders to obtain their broader, unguided perspectives around stewardship, land management and conservation monitoring in this environment.

Understanding People and Nature

Research That Makes a Difference

We explore how people connect with the environment from urban green spaces to ocean reefs, and develop strategies to promote conservation stewardship and meaningful engagement with the natural world. Through citizen science, community partnerships, and innovative communication strategies, we’re working to strengthen the connections between people and nature for lasting conservation impact.