Journal Article

The role of Local Ecological Knowledge on the Behavioral Ecology of mammals

Schiel, Nicola, Silva, Tamires Maria, De la Fuente, María Fernanda, Souto, Antonio

2026

Overview

While the role of Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) is widely recognized for its dialogue and complement in ecology and conservation contexts, its role on the behavioral ecology of mammals is still unknown. With that in mind, we investigated LEK on the behavioral ecology of mammals, and which variables could influence such knowledge. The study was carried out in the municipality of Cabaceiras, state of Paraíba, Brazil. Data collection was divided into two stages: (i) free list (192 interviewees), to identify the mammals known in the region; (ii) and semi-structured interviews (150 interviewees). We found that conspicuous behaviors were significantly more familiar than cryptic ones, and higher LEK by residents with a rural occupation, who lives longer in the locality and encounters animals more frequently.  Thus, when considering LEK on the behavioral ecology of mammals, it is important to recognize that its contribution occurs, to a greater degree, in relation to more visible behaviors and the informants more contact. LEK emerges as a complementary source of information, optimizing data collection efforts and strengthening the inclusion of local knowledge in conservation strategies. Furthermore, considering in the future bridging LEK and Behavioral Ecology of mammals would lead to a two-way street that can promote a more equitable approach between these two knowledge systems.