Rehabilitators often act as human/wildlife conflict mitigation specialists. We all (rehabbers) have the same problems and deal with the same issues, we are just in different parts of the world!
Conflict mitigation cannot be ignored, especially during a time of crisis.
Speaking with the Public
- Set aside time for the calls so that you are mentally/emotionally prepared
- Listen to the caller’s concerns
- Have them explain the problem
- Keep your frustration out of the conversation
- Have them send pictures of the issue
- Offer to visit on site
- Be understanding and reassuring
- “We are here for you.”
- “We are concerned about public health.”
- Answer questions with facts
- “We are interested in helping you and the animals.”
- We will find a mutually beneficial solution
- Differentiate between a callers positions and interests
- Even if you can’t accept an animal you can still educate and help with conflict mitigation.
- Find what would be acceptable to the people without evicting the wildlife
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