Trade-offs between welfare, conservation, utility and economics in wildlife management - a review of conflicts, compromises and regulation.

Abstract

In choosing among alternative wildlife management techniques, trade-offs between animal welfare and conservation, utility or economics are often apparent This paper reviews the roles of science, scientists, regulators and educators in attempts to overcome this inter-dependence and to make simultaneous progress on all fronts. Illustrations are drawn in particular from trapping and pest population control. Against the real progress that can undoubtedly be made through scientific study, there is a regrettable lack of structure because of poor philosophical and logical coherence within the welfare movement.