Responses from survey carried out to investigate the interactions between the Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber) and the freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera)
Description
These data are the responses of participants in a survey designed to explore the interaction between the Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber) and the freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera). Participants were invited to take part in this survey between 24/01/2023 and 05/07/2023. The introductory text below presented the scope of the survey to potential participants before they began answering questions. Introduction Why are we asking questions about beavers and freshwater pearl mussels (FPMs)? The number of beaver reintroductions in Britain and across Europe has increased significantly over the past decade, bringing unquestionable ecological and biodiversity benefits to reintroduction sites. What is less well understood are the potential issues that can arise when there is conflict between habitat changes brought about by beaver engineering, and the presence of other species of concern. One such interaction is between beavers and imperilled freshwater mussel species, particularly the freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) which is critically endangered across Europe and is also subject to its own reintroduction/population reinforcement activities in several European countries. What we are asking you to do: On the following pages you will be presented with a number of themed questions that relate to FPMs and beavers. When responding please consider ALL the sites you know. Please select the option that best reflects the extent to which you support or oppose the views expressed, and add your comments where possible. The survey should take you 10-15 minutes to complete. Your responses are anonymous; we will not collect any information that could be used to identify you, and whilst we do ask a few questions about you, we are only collecting general demographic to help interpret responses. Your participation is voluntary: Your participation in the study is entirely voluntary. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without having to provide a reason for doing so. Data provided up to that point with be disregarded. Below we ask for your consent to participate in the survey and by giving your consent you are stating that you: have read and understood the information presented above about this study have been provided with contact details to ask further questions if needed and have been given sufficient information understand that you are free to withdraw from this study at any time, and without having to give a reason for withdrawal give permission for members of the research team to analyse and quote your anonymous responses. If you would like any further information on the study or this survey, please contact Professor Ian Convery (ian.convery@cumbria.ac.uk) or Dr Louise Lavictoire (llavictoire@fba.org.uk).