ABSTRACT
This chapter proposes a transformative shift in wildlife conservation, emphasizing the cultural and spiritual ties between communities and nature, and particularly between people and wildlife for conservation. It introduces a conceptual framework drawn from diverse case studies worldwide spanning India, Central Asia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and demonstrating how ancestral, spiritual, and cultural connections with key species as forms of CES can foster inclusive community ownership of conservation efforts. This conceptual framework advocates embracing various knowledge systems beyond conservation biology, identifying cultural keystone species, understanding their ancestral significance, and nurturing spiritual bonds with them. These elements cultivate stronger community ownership, which is essential for sustainable conservation outcomes. The chapter offers tangible recommendations for practitioners, including considering cultural contexts, actively listening, respecting diverse viewpoints, and using storytelling to enrich existing knowledge systems.
