Multispecies entanglements, from conflict to coexistence: How remote camerasshape public perception of carnivora in urban areas.
Name of Researcher: Claire Musser
Invitation: I am a PhD student from Falmouth University in the UK, and live here in Phoenix, Arizona. I would like to invite you to take part in my research. Please take time to consider the following information carefully and to discuss it with family or friends if you wish, or ask the researcher questions.
Purpose of the research: I am conducting research into the use of remote cameras to capture images of Carnivora species found throughout Southwest, USA. Urban development is bringing humans into closer contact with species such as cougars (Puma concolor), bobcats (Lynx rufus) and coyotes (Canis latrans). Through photography, participant observation, interviews, and field observations, I hope to understand how documenting the lives of these animals can help us find ways yo live alongside our wild neighbours.
Why have I been invited? You have been invited to this study because you have shown an interest wildlife photography and/or human-wildlife interactions.
What would taking part involve? Taking part in the research is entirely voluntary. The research involves sharing images and interactions with urban carnivores. Participants will be asked if they wish to be anonymous or if they would like their name to be included in the study to quote their comment(s) or credit their photograph(s). Participants have the option to share their images and social media posts on the researchers dedicated social media platform and website. Participants will also have the option to take part in an interview about their images, and for this additional consent will be obtained. Personal contact details will be deleted at the end of the study in 2030. If you decide to join the study, I will describe the research by going through this information sheet and then asking you to sign a consent form.
What will happen if I don’t want to carry on with the study? Participants can stop taking part at any time and without reason and can request that their images and social media post(s) be withdrawn from the study.
What are the possible disadvantages and risks of taking part? As a participant potential risk could involve distress from sharing the stories of human-wildlife conflict.
Will I receive any payment for taking part? There is no payment for taking part in this study.
What will happen to the results of this study? Participants will not be identified in any published results, unless requested and with written consent. The results of this study will be presented in academic journals, online magazines, social media platforms, audio, and film broadcasts. The results will also be presented at conferences and meetings about human-wildlife coexistence.
Who is organising and funding this study? There are no organisations funding this study.
How will my information be kept confidential? Participant comments and images will be stored securely on a password protected university drive and destroyed at the end of the study in 2030. If the participant has asked the be anonymous their name will be excluded from any social media posts, and they will be given a pseudonym during storage.
Further information and contact details If you have any questions or concerns about this study, or would like further information, please email Claire Musser claire@connectionsforcoexistence.org
You can also contact the Research & Knowledge Exchange Team if you have any question about this research project or your participation: research@falmouth.ac.uk, phone: +44 1326 259247
Thank you for your interest in this project.