Stine Slotsbo: “I don’t have scientific knowledge about what animals feel, and I won’t speak based on my own opinions”
Stine Slotsbo is a senior researcher at the Department of Ecoscience. One of her primary research interests is developing effective strategies to reduce slug and snail damage to plants and crops. She frequently appears in the media as an expert on Iberian slugs (popularly known as ‘killer slugs’ in Denmark) and how to get rid of them.
What are your motivations for being an expert commentator?
When I started working with Iberian slugs in 2008, I quickly realised that there were a lot of misconceptions about them in circulation – particularly about how to get rid of them. For example, there was a widespread myth that hedgehogs eat Iberian slugs. But they don’t – at least not enough to keep your garden slug-free. Or that Iberian slugs can’t survive frost. But actually, they can. Even though these misconceptions were innocent, it really irritated me. So when a journalist located me and my knowledge, I was ready to share it.
What do you consider before saying yes or no to an interview?
I always make sure to find out what the journalist is really after. Are they after facts about Iberian slugs, or is it about animal ethics and how we feel about killing slugs? If I have time, I say yes to everything as long as it’s based on facts. On the other hand, I stay away from topics with a more emotional slant. I don’t have scientific knowledge about what animals feel, and I won’t make statements based on my own opinions.
How do you prepare?
It’s a field where the same questions often occur over and over. So when journalists call me up and ask om the slug population is growing if it’s raining a lot or if the weather’s dry, I basically don’t have to prepare. If a question comes up along the way where I need to check something, I just say so and call back after I’ve read up on it. It’s never been a problem.
How do you balance the goal of communicating your knowledge in an accessible way with your commitment to scientific rigour?
It’s always been important to me to communicate in a way people can understand – I’ve done that in lectures and at scientific conferences. After all, I can’t expect that the scientists I’m talking to have in-depth knowledge of my specific field. So I make an effort to explain things clearly and simply, regardless of who the target audience is.
How do you deal with the criticism or pushback that expert commentators sometimes have to deal with?
I’ve been lucky, because if there’s one thing Danes can agree on, it’s that having Iberian slugs in your garden is a drag. There’s also a political consensus that we need to combat them because they’re an invasive species. So I’ve basically not had to deal with any criticism. And to be honest, I’m pleased about that, because I probably wouldn’t think it was all that fun if there was risk of a shitstorm every time I said anything.
What impact do you think your role as an expert has had – both for you and for the public debate?
I don’t think I’ve exactly sparked a huge societal debate, but there’s clearly a lot of interest in my knowledge. Especially in slug-infested summers, my phone blows up with calls from journalists – even when major events are happening in the world. Local news still matters. Maybe I’ve prevented some people from pouring salt in their gardens to fight slugs, and that’s of course good for the environment.
Do you check people’s comments on social media after your media appearances?
Not at all – I’m not even curious. On the other hand, I often get mails about problems with slugs after I’ve been on TV. People share their own experiences with Iberian slugs in the garden, or ask questions. Some times they disagree with what I’ve said, but I see that as valuable input, and I always reply. It also gives me an idea of where the slugs are most prevalent – for example if I get lots of mails from southern Zealand, then I know there are extra many there.
How do you disconnect from the media treadmill?
The media don’t take up that much space in my life to begin with, so I’m not overloaded. I do sometimes get a little tired of getting a lot of calls from journalists in the summer, and for the first few years I answered all the calls. I don’t do that any more – instead I take my summer holiday with my family. Even though I’m probably the person in Denmark who knows the most about Iberian slugs.
What's your best advice for colleagues who are considering making public media appearances?
Be very conscious of the difference between facts and opinions – because journalists don’t always distinguish between the two. As an expert, you base your knowledge on research, and of course your opinions can also be relevant. But it’s important that you make it very clear when something you say is your personal opinion.
Stay within your own area of expertise. If the journalist asks questions outside your area of expertise, refer them to someone who can give them a better answer.
Finally, make sure you give yourself time to think. The journalist will just have to wait.