A Conceptual Framework for Evaluating and Responding to Conflicts with Migratory Bird Species

As human, and in some cases, bird, populations expand, the possibility of conflicts with human interests (e.g., agriculture, development, conservation of threatened and endangered species), and, at times, with other species, increase. The conflicts occur across social, economic, environmental, and regulatory contexts, with each conflict being somewhat unique in terms of species biology, stakeholders involved, extent of damage, and additional factors. These conflicts can range from minimal, such as a minor nuisance, to potentially significant economic and ecological damages, or risks to human health and safety. Species that depredate crops or fish produced through aquaculture for human consumption may cause a significant, negative economic impact. Some species of birds negatively affect other species that are themselves imperiled. Conflicts can also arise where other natural resources are being adversely affected resulting from locally very abundant populations.