<scp>UK</scp> wildlife recorders cautiously welcome range‐shifting species but incline against intervention to promote or control their establishment

Abstract The global redistribution of species due to climate change and other anthropogenic causes is driving novel human–wildlife interactions with complex consequences. On the one hand, range‐shifting could disrupt recipient ecosystems. these may be contracting in their historic range, contributing loss biodiversity there. Given that arriving also perhaps have positive effects on ecosystems, there [in principle] a net benefit equation calculated. Thus, public opinion divided they present unique challenge wildlife management. We surveyed recorders about establishment management eight birds insects whose ranges recently shifted into United Kingdom. asked whether respondents' attitudes were explained by species' or characteristics, not was emphasised as cause range‐shift. conducted qualitative analysis recorders' text responses contextualise results. Attitudes mostly but more ambivalent for less familiar taxa compared birds. Respondents strongly opposed eradicating controlling new range‐shifters, aimed increase numbers. Whether presented range‐shifts did affect attitudes, likely because respondents assumed driver regardless. These findings suggest it will difficult generate support active hinder redistribution, particularly invertebrate overlooked among recorders. However, whole are viewed sympathetically. Engaging represent an opportunity garner conservation actions which both currently native species, such improvements habitat quality connectivity. Read free Plain Language Summary this article Journal blog.