Assessing pupils’ knowledge and attitudes towards Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) for future conservation actions

Understanding public attitudes toward wildlife is crucial for the success of conservation efforts, particularly for species that might elicit mixed perceptions. For the first time in Slovenia, we conducted a study on attitudes and knowledge about the Eurasian lynx among primary, lower and upper secondary school pupils. Participants between the ages of 9 and 19 took part in the survey (N = 1312). The aim of the study was to determine the general acceptance and knowledge of the lynx and identify the key factors that influence the formation of attitudes and knowledge. The survey results show a good acceptance of the species among the younger generation and a high level of support for its conservation. A higher amount of knowledge was positively associated with less fear of the species, more interest in learning and higher support for conservation. Living in a region with a permanent lynx presence was associated with less fear and more interest in learning about the species. No differences in acceptance and support for lynx conservation were detected between regions with or without the permanent presence of the species. Year of education was positively associated with the amount of knowledge about lynx, while gender was partially associated with the amount of fear but mainly with support for conservation. Against this background, we provide guidance for planning future communication and education activities for the long-term conservation of the species.