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Grundei LL, Schöttes FM, Gethöffer F, Tost D, Kluge L, Siebert U, Pees M. Human-Wildlife Interaction-A Social Survey. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:808. [PMID: 38473194 DOI: 10.3390/ani14050808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
With the results of a survey presented in this paper, we provide insight into public attitudes towards dealing with wildlife. Based on 1569 data sets derived from participating stakeholders, we inquired about the individual experience the participants had made with wild animals, and asked about their personal engagement, attitude towards management, and emotions involved and tried to evaluate basic contextual knowledge. As a result, we discovered a positive effect showing that a strong opinion about dealing with wildlife is associated with increasing contextual knowledge. People that are experienced in and engaged in wildlife conservation expressed significantly stronger positive emotions in this context. We conclude that education is essential in dealing with wildlife responsibly and that positive emotions are a main trigger for such engagement. The results of the survey underline that a combination of contextual knowledge and a positive attitude towards wildlife leads to a higher awareness of possible conflicts between humans and wildlife. Furthermore, these criteria are crucial when developing strategies that strive for a sustainable coexistence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara-Luisa Grundei
- Department of Small Mammal, Reptile and Avian Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 9, 30559 Hanover, Germany
| | - Franziska M Schöttes
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany
| | - Friederike Gethöffer
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany
| | - Daniel Tost
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany
| | - Laurin Kluge
- Department of Small Mammal, Reptile and Avian Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 9, 30559 Hanover, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany
| | - Michael Pees
- Department of Small Mammal, Reptile and Avian Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 9, 30559 Hanover, Germany
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Howlett K, Turner EC. What can drawings tell us about children's perceptions of nature? PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287370. [PMID: 37405975 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The growing disconnect between children and nature has led to concerns around the loss of ecological knowledge and reduced nature connection. Understanding children's perceptions of nature is vital for engaging them with local wildlife and mitigating this growing disconnect. This study investigated children's perceptions of nature by analysing 401 drawings made by children (aged 7-11) of their local green spaces, collected from 12 different English schools, including state-funded and privately funded. We assessed which animal and plant groups were drawn the most and least often, quantified each drawing's species richness and community composition, and identified all terms used in the drawings to the highest taxonomic resolution possible. The most commonly drawn groups were mammals (80.5% of drawings) and birds (68.6% of drawings), while herpetofauna were the least commonly drawn (15.7% of drawings). Despite not explicitly being asked about plants, 91.3% of drawings contained a plant. Taxonomic resolution was highest for mammals and birds, with 90% of domestic mammals and 69.6% of garden birds identifiable to species, compared to 18.5% of insects and 14.3% of herpetofauna. No invertebrates other than insects were identifiable to species. Within plants, trees and crops were the most identifiable to species, at 52.6% and 25% of terms respectively. Drawings from state-school children had higher plant richness than those from private-school children. Animal community composition differed between school funding types, with more types of garden birds drawn by private-school than state-school children, and more types of invertebrates drawn by state-school than private-school children. Our findings indicate that children's perceptions of local wildlife are focused on mammals and birds. While plants feature prominently, plant knowledge is less specific than animal knowledge. We suggest that this skew in children's ecological awareness be addressed through better integration of ecology within national curricula and more funding for green space within schools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Howlett
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom
| | - Edgar C Turner
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom
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da Silva AR, Braga-Pereira F, Borges AKM, de Oliveira JV, da Silva MXG, Alves RRN. Bioecological representations and social characteristics of students influence their attitudes toward wild vertebrates. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2023; 19:25. [PMID: 37308895 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-023-00593-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The origin of different human emotions directed towards animals (whether in the utilitarian, affective, conflictual, or cosmological context) is strongly influenced by sociocultural factors, although our genetic predispositions also play an important role in the origin of these emotions. Such emotions guide people's representations of different species, which in turn affect their attitudes toward them. For this reason, understanding the factors that guide such attitudes becomes a key element in making conservationist decisions. In this sense, the main objective of this study was to analyze how sociocultural characteristics and bioecological representations can influence students' attitudes of empathy or antipathy towards vertebrate species; as well as which classes and species are related to greater and lesser support in people for their conservation. METHODS To do so, 667 interviews were conducted with students from urban (n = 1) and rural (n = 2) schools in the Brazilian semi-arid region. We used mixed generalized linear models (GLMM) to examine the effect of social factors and bioecological representations on empathy and antipathy attitudes and multiple factor analysis (MFA) to examine the relationship between the biological characteristics of the animals (positive or negative) and the attitudes toward them (antipathetic or empathetic). RESULTS Through GLMM, we found that students from the urban area and from lower school levels are more extreme in their responses, more frequently expressing both empathy and antipathy towards wild animals. Regarding gender, women had a higher frequency of responses associated with aversion than men for species perceived as dangerous and poisonous (p < 0.001). Through the MFA, we found greater support (empathy) for the conservation of fish species (31.56%), birds (29.37%) and mammals (25.94%), with emphasis on the Red-cowled cardinal (Paroaria dominicana) and clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) species, and less support (antipathy) for reptile and amphibian species such as rattlesnakes (Crotalus durissus) and horned frogs (Ceratophrys joazeirensis). CONCLUSIONS The attitudinal ambivalence reflected by varying empathy for certain species and antipathy to others has important implications for wildlife conservation. Understanding the socioeconomic factors and emotions that influence attitudes towards animals can enable integrating educational strategies for the conservation of species, especially those which are culturally important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Rozendo da Silva
- Laboratório de Etnobiologia, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Avenida das Baraúnas, 351, Bairro Universitário, Campina Grande, PB, 58429-500, Brazil
| | - Franciany Braga-Pereira
- Departamento de Sistemática e Ecologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, 58051-900, Brazil.
| | - Anna Karolina Martins Borges
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Av. Dom Manoel de Medeiros, s/n - Dois irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | - José Valberto de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Etnobiologia, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Avenida das Baraúnas, 351, Bairro Universitário, Campina Grande, PB, 58429-500, Brazil
| | - Moacyr Xavier Gomes da Silva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Av. Dom Manoel de Medeiros, s/n - Dois irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | - Rômulo Romeu Nóbrega Alves
- Laboratório de Etnobiologia, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Avenida das Baraúnas, 351, Bairro Universitário, Campina Grande, PB, 58429-500, Brazil
- Departamento de Sistemática e Ecologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, 58051-900, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Av. Dom Manoel de Medeiros, s/n - Dois irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
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Prokop P, Fančovičová J. Enhancing Attention and Interest in Plants to Mitigate Plant Awareness Disparity. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:2201. [PMID: 37299180 PMCID: PMC10255336 DOI: 10.3390/plants12112201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Plant awareness disparity (PAD, formerly plant blindness) is the human inability to notice plants in everyday life. It is suggested that the main underlying factors of PAD are: 1. the inability to recognize individual plants and 2. stronger preferences for animals, which prevents building positive attitudes toward them. The presentation of individual plants should trigger more positive responses toward them than the presentation of groups of plants. Strong preferences for animals predict that the presence of an animal on a plant might enhance positive perceptions of the plant by people. We experimentally investigated the perceived attractiveness and willingness to protect (WTP) plants presented individually and in groups and with or without various pollinators in a sample of Slovak people (N = 238). In contrast to the first prediction, only one of four plants (dog rose, but not saffron, spruce, or beech tree) received higher attractiveness scores when presented individually than in a group. None of these species received higher WTP scores when presented individually, rather than in a group. The effect of the presence of pollinators on flower attractiveness and WTP was distinguished between vertebrates and invertebrates; only flowers with birds and bats increased their attractiveness scores, while flowers with invertebrates, including a butterfly, honeybee, beetle, and the syrphid fly, received similar or lower scores than the same plant species without pollinators. WTP plants significantly increased only when the scarlet honeycreeper and the cave nectar bat were present on flowers as pollinators. People showed significantly stronger preferences for items that associate 1. plants with pollinators and 2. plants with animals that distribute animal seed than for items focused solely on plants. Connecting animals and plants should help reduce PAD. This aim cannot be achieved, however, by presenting individual plants and/or plants with randomly chosen pollinators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavol Prokop
- Department of Environmental Ecology and Landscape Management, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, 842 15 Bratislava, Slovakia
- Institute of Zoology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 06 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Jana Fančovičová
- Faculty of Education, Trnava University, Priemyselná 4, 918 43 Trnava, Slovakia;
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Yang N, Price M, Xu Y, Zhu Y, Zhong X, Cheng Y, Wang B. Assessing Global Efforts in the Selection of Vertebrates as Umbrella Species for Conservation. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:509. [PMID: 37106710 PMCID: PMC10135637 DOI: 10.3390/biology12040509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
The umbrella-species strategy has been proposed as an attainable tool to achieve multi-species and community conservation with limited investment. There have been many umbrella-related studies since the concept's inception; thus, a summary of global study efforts and recommended umbrella species is important for understanding advances in the field and facilitating conservation applications. Here, we collated 213 recommended umbrella species of terrestrial vertebrates from 242 scientific articles published during 1984-2021 and analyzed their geographic patterns, biological features, and conservation statuses to identify global trends in the selection of umbrella species. We found a considerable geographic bias: most studies and, consequently, recommended umbrella species are from the Northern Hemisphere. There is also a strong taxonomic bias, with grouses (order Galliformes) and large carnivores being the most popular umbrella species and amphibians and reptiles being largely overlooked. In addition, wide-ranging and non-threatened species were frequently recommended as umbrella species. Given the observed biases and trends, we caution that appropriate species need to be chosen for each location, and it is important to confirm that popular, wide-ranging species are effective umbrella species. Moreover, amphibians and reptiles should be investigated for their potential as umbrella species. The umbrella-species strategy has many strengths and, if applied appropriately, may be one of the best options in today's conservation research and funding landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Yang
- Institute of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610225, China;
| | - Megan Price
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China;
| | - Yu Xu
- Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Biodiversity Conservation in Karst Mountainous Areas of Southwestern China, School of Life Sciences, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550001, China; (Y.X.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Yun Zhu
- Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Biodiversity Conservation in Karst Mountainous Areas of Southwestern China, School of Life Sciences, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550001, China; (Y.X.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Xue Zhong
- Key Laboratory of Southwest China Wildlife Resources Conservation (Ministry of Education), China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, China;
| | - Yuehong Cheng
- Wolong National Nature Reserve Administration Bureau, Wenchuan 623006, China;
| | - Bin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Southwest China Wildlife Resources Conservation (Ministry of Education), China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, China;
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Sweet FST, Noack P, Hauck TE, Weisser WW. The Relationship between Knowing and Liking for 91 Urban Animal Species among Students. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13030488. [PMID: 36766376 PMCID: PMC9913501 DOI: 10.3390/ani13030488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
While there is growing consensus that nature should be promoted in cities, it is less clear what kind of nature this should be. One hypothesis is that humans show greater liking for those parts of nature that they know better. Using questionnaires, we studied the familiarity of 475 students with 91 urban animal species and the relationship between familiarity and attitudes towards the species. Students declared that they were familiar with most animals, but not all animals were equally liked. Better-known species were not generally the better-liked ones. The more familiar animal species were the more extreme attitudes became towards them, both positively and negatively. Our research shows that familiarity and attitude are not two sides of the same coin. It also emphasizes that there are parts of nature that are not liked by many humans and that this dislike is not necessarily correlated with insufficient knowledge. Detailed studies of what components of nature humans like and reasons underlying this are necessary to successfully increase nature in cities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio S. T. Sweet
- Terrestrial Ecology Research Group, Department of Life Science Systems, School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, 85354 Freising, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-81-6171-3870
| | - Peter Noack
- Department of Educational Psychology, Institute of Psychology, University of Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Thomas E. Hauck
- Department of Landscape Architecture and Planning, Institute for Urban Design and Landscape Architecture, Vienna University of Technology, 1040 Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang W. Weisser
- Terrestrial Ecology Research Group, Department of Life Science Systems, School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, 85354 Freising, Germany
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K. Maxim Rodrigues, K. Vineeth Kumar, Hasyagar V, M.C. Prashantha Krishna, Naik D. A checklist of avifauna of Mangalore University, Karnataka, India. JOURNAL OF THREATENED TAXA 2023. [DOI: 10.11609/jott.7503.15.1.22430-22439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The study of the avifaunal diversity was carried out in the Mangalore University campus, located in Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka from 2013 to 2021, in and around the campus. A total of 150 bird species belonging to 18 orders and 56 families were recorded during the study. Out of these, the study area supports five species which are endemic to the Western Ghats. The feeding guild analysis revealed that the insectivorous group had the highest number of species (53 species). The study provides baseline data for monitoring the avifauna in the campus and demonstrates the importance of the area in bird conservation.
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Howlett K, Lee H, Jaffé A, Lewis M, Turner EC. Wildlife documentaries present a diverse, but biased, portrayal of the natural world. PEOPLE AND NATURE 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/pan3.10431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kate Howlett
- Department of Zoology University of Cambridge Cambridge UK
| | - Ho‐Yee Lee
- Department of Zoology University of Cambridge Cambridge UK
| | - Amelia Jaffé
- Department of Zoology University of Cambridge Cambridge UK
| | - Matthew Lewis
- Biodiversity, Ecology and Conservation Group, Biodiversity and Natural Resources Program International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) Laxenburg Austria
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Penn J, Hu W. Benefit-cost analysis of becoming certified pollinator friendly. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 326:116679. [PMID: 36403320 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.116679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Despite significant drop in pollinator abundance, no studies exist on the benefits and costs of pollinator conservation in the public domain. An in-person survey was conducted at three large, public US universities to estimate benefits to become Bee Campus USA certified. We test whether different types of reminders on existing student sustainability fees affect Willingness to Pay. Costs of achieving this certification per university were obtained. Net Present Value demonstrates that the net benefits to each school are largely positive, except under the most restrictive assumption. Information reminders of existing fees lead to little change in support of pollinator conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerrod Penn
- Louisiana State University & LSU AgCenter, USA.
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Mota Pereira H, Braga-Pereira F, Azeredo LMM, Lopez LCS, Romeu Nóbrega Alves R. Assessing factors influencing students' perceptions towards animal species conservation. PeerJ 2023; 11:e14553. [PMID: 36643645 PMCID: PMC9835705 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The way humans perceive and interact with non-human animals is particular to each person, from antipathetic interactions evidenced by fear, aversion or repulsion, to empathy evidenced by feelings of affection, enchantment and interest in the animal. In this sense, herein we investigated the perception of university students about species belonging to different classes of wild vertebrates and the influence of social and educational factors on that. Methods Data were obtained through online forms answered by 700 university students from nine Brazilian states, 328 females and 372 males, aged between 18 and 65 years. The form had eight sentences to be answered in relation to 17 species of wild vertebrates. The agreement level for each of these sentences was to be indicated using a five-point Likert scale. The sentences were designed to assess aesthetic, risk, utilitarian, and preservation perceptions attributed to each species by students. Results We found that species perceived as useful by the students are generally also perceived as beautiful and as those that should be preserved. On the other hand, we found similarity between the species perceived as ugly and those that should not be preserved; and between the species perceived as harmful and those considered dangerous. Female and lower-income students more often agree that animals are harmful. We found that perceptions of danger in relation to animals were predominantly associated with younger respondents. However, this did not lead to less support for conservation among these students, as students of all age groups agree that species should be preserved. Our results show that students' knowledge area was an important predictor associated with empathetic and antipathetic perceptions. Environmental area students showed greater empathy in all analyzed categories (beauty, usefulness, harmlessness, and preservation) than non-environmental areas students. On the other hand, students from the area of the exact sciences showed greater dislike in all analyzed categories than students from other areas. We found a strong relationship between the areas "Environmental" and "Humanities, Languages and Arts" for the attitudinal factors associated with utility and preservation, suggesting a similar empathetic worldview for students in these areas. Conclusions We found that the perception directed towards wild vertebrates varies according to the gender, age, income and study area of the students, in addition to the taxon considered. Finally, our results indicate that negative perceptions should be taken into account in environmental education efforts, educational policies and in planning fauna conservation plans which should incorporate the most diverse audiences, and not only encompass charismatic species but extend to animals that arouse great aversion from the part of people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heliene Mota Pereira
- Departamento de Sistemática e Ecologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
| | - Franciany Braga-Pereira
- Departamento de Sistemática e Ecologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil,Rede de Pesquisa para Estudos sobre Diversidade, Conservação e Uso da Fauna na Amazônia (REDEFAUNA), Manaus, Brazil
| | - Luane Maria Melo Azeredo
- Departamento de Sistemática e Ecologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
| | - Luiz Carlos Serramo Lopez
- Departamento de Sistemática e Ecologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil
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Ibrahim MSN, Assim MISA, Johari S, Mohammad SKW, Afandi SHM, Hassan S. Public awareness on biodiversity conservation and well-being: case of Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak. GEOJOURNAL 2022; 88:3471-3496. [PMID: 36591568 PMCID: PMC9795449 DOI: 10.1007/s10708-022-10818-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Lack of public awareness of biodiversity conservation is the leading cause of biodiversity loss. This needs to be emphasized by stakeholders in the conservation effort, particularly in some major conservation areas, including the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Gunung Mulu National Park (GMNP). As a result of threats such as natural catastrophes, pollution, poaching, and uncontrolled urbanization or human development, GMNP is at risk of being inscribed on the List of World Heritage in Danger. The UNESCO status is possible to be drawn if its criteria are not maintained or degraded due to a lack of emphasis on awareness of the importance of the site. However, it is still limited information on to what extent is the public aware of the importance of biodiversity conservation in GMNP and its relationship to their well-being. Thus, the study aims to examine the level of awareness (knowledge, attitude, and experience) among local community and visitors in GMNP towards biodiversity conservation; and determine their well-being, specifically on environmental, economic, and social factors concerning conservation awareness. A validated questionnaire was distributed to the visitors (n = 87) and local community (n = 99) through an online and face-to-face survey. Based on the awareness constructs, their level of knowledge and experience is high, while attitude portrays a moderate level. The visitors have a higher level of knowledge, attitude, and experience than the local community. The level of education and number of dependents had influenced their awareness of conservation. In terms of well-being, the economic and social factors had significantly predicted awareness accordingly. It shows that the dimensions of the neighborhood, life and social relations, services and facilities, education, culture, and monthly income influence their current level of awareness of biodiversity conservation. The empirical study provides insights into developing a biodiversity conservation framework for GMNP that emphasizes community psychology as part of the social movement toward holistic management in the park.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Syahrul Nizam Ibrahim
- Faculty of Agricultural Science and Forestry, Universiti Putra Malaysia Bintulu Sarawak Campus, 97008 Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Ibrani Shahrimin Adam Assim
- Faculty of Humanities, Management and Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia Bintulu Sarawak Campus, 97008 Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Shazali Johari
- Faculty of Forestry and Environment, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Syarifah Kamariah Wan Mohammad
- Faculty of Humanities, Management and Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia Bintulu Sarawak Campus, 97008 Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | | | - Suziana Hassan
- Faculty of Agricultural Science and Forestry, Universiti Putra Malaysia Bintulu Sarawak Campus, 97008 Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia
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Pearson EL, Mellish S, McLeod EM, Sanders B, Ryan JC. Can we save Australia’s endangered wildlife by increasing species recognition? J Nat Conserv 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnc.2022.126257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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13
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Vlasák‐Drücker J, Eylering A, Drews J, Hillmer G, Carvalho Hilje V, Fiebelkorn F. Free word association analysis of Germans' attitudes toward insects. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.12766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Vlasák‐Drücker
- School of Biology and Chemistry Didactics of Biology, Osnabrück University Osnabrück Germany
| | - Annike Eylering
- School of Biology and Chemistry Didactics of Biology, Osnabrück University Osnabrück Germany
| | - Jasmin Drews
- School of Biology and Chemistry Didactics of Biology, Osnabrück University Osnabrück Germany
| | - Gesa Hillmer
- School of Biology and Chemistry Didactics of Biology, Osnabrück University Osnabrück Germany
| | - Vera Carvalho Hilje
- School of Biology and Chemistry Didactics of Biology, Osnabrück University Osnabrück Germany
| | - Florian Fiebelkorn
- School of Biology and Chemistry Didactics of Biology, Osnabrück University Osnabrück Germany
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Do People Care about the Origin of Wildlife? The Role of Social Stereotypes on Public Preference for Exotic Animals. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12172160. [PMID: 36077881 PMCID: PMC9455057 DOI: 10.3390/ani12172160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
People’s attitudes to animals are becoming increasingly important for the success of invasive species management. We asked college students from Argentina to fill a questionnaire that included a question about their favorite free-living animal. A total of 159 responses were obtained. Native species were significantly less preferred than non-native species. We tested if these preferences were associated with animal stereotypes. The stereotype hypothesis predicts that animals from the contemptible stereotype (invertebrate, rodents, and reptiles) should be the least preferred taxa, and animals from the protective stereotype (pets, horses, and primates) should be the most preferred taxa; animals from the subordination (lagomorphs and birds) and threatening–awe stereotype (large carnivores) should show intermediate preferences. The first prediction was supported. However, students showed significant preference for non-native taxa included in the threatening–awe stereotype. We proposed that people prefer large carnivores (stereotypically strong, intelligent, and beautiful animals) when they are exotic, because they did not represent a risk.
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Hooykaas MJD, Holierhoek MG, Westerveld JS, Schilthuizen M, Smeets I. Animal biodiversity and specificity in children's picture books. PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING OF SCIENCE (BRISTOL, ENGLAND) 2022; 31:671-688. [PMID: 35532077 PMCID: PMC9131409 DOI: 10.1177/09636625221089811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
While animal biodiversity is declining globally, cultural representations of animals are highly prevalent in society and play an increasing part in shaping children's perceptions of animal diversity. We studied animal portrayals in children's picture books in the Netherlands, and coded over 2,200 animals from 217 award-winning books. We found a strong bias toward vertebrates, mammals in particular. Mammals were featured more often than other animals, played more prominent roles in the story, and were visually and textually specified more strongly. Furthermore, exotic and domestic species outnumbered native species. Picture books currently are likely to reinforce children's perceptions toward only a small part of animal biodiversity. While we realize that picture books have other primary aims, picture book makers could be inspired and encouraged to diversify and specify their portrayals of the natural world. This would broaden children's perceptions of the animal kingdom and could help foster lasting connections to biodiversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiel Jan Dirk Hooykaas
- Michiel Jan Dirk Hooykaas, Science Communication and Society, Leiden University, Sylviusweg 72, 2333 BE Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | - Menno Schilthuizen
- Leiden University, The Netherlands; Naturalis Biodiversity Center, The Netherlands
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16
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SAD but True: Species Awareness Disparity in Bees Is a Result of Bee-Less Biology Lessons in Germany. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14052604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Bee and insect mortality has recently moved to the forefront of current nature conservation debates and experiences intensive media coverage worldwide. In order to understand the complexity, it is necessary to raise awareness of the diversity of bees. This study investigated whether students are aware of the species diversity of bees. We are guided by the concept of ‘plant blindness’ and show that it cannot be assumed that people are only ’plant-blind’. Therefore, we introduce the concept of Species Awareness Disparity (SAD) in bees to describe a phenomenon which can be defined as the failure to appreciate the significance of wild bee species and the inability to distinguish between individual species of the Apidae family. A total of 421 German students in grades 5–7 participated. The majority of students did not associate a diversity of species with the term ‘wild bee’ but rather consider the honeybee as the bee. Only 2.7% (N = 421) of the students were able to correctly identify pictures of wild bees and the honeybee. This highlights the importance of educating students about the identity and nature of bees in their environment so that they become aware of their meaning from both a personal and an ecological perspective.
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Factors Affecting Zoo Visitors’ Conservation Beliefs and Knowledge of Large Carnivores in 2009 and a Dozen Years Later. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14020890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Teaching in a formal learning environment mainly focuses on gaining knowledge, and scarcely on the development of pro-environmental attitudes. Knowledge can also be gained in informal learning institutions, such as zoos, and their potential use in general public education should not be neglected. This paper explores factors influencing the conservation beliefs of zoo visitors about brown bears, grey wolves, and Eurasian lynx. The study undertaken in Zoo Ljubljana (Slovenia) consisted of surveys performed in 2009 (n = 613) and in 2021 (n = 257). The levels of knowledge and education influenced both supporting and opposing beliefs about the three large carnivore species. The gender factor was less uniform: both supporting and opposing beliefs about lynx were demonstrated, but only opposing beliefs about brown bear and wolf. The study indicates that knowledge has the most significant influence on conservation beliefs, thus highlighting the importance of educational and communication activities in management and conservation actions regarding large carnivore species. The varied gender influence suggests that species-specific educational activities should be encouraged.
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Ngo KM, Hosaka T, Numata S. Attitudes and preferences of wildlife and their relationship with childhood nature experience amongst residents in a tropical urban city. Urban Ecosyst 2022; 25:1939-1948. [PMID: 36159164 PMCID: PMC9483242 DOI: 10.1007/s11252-022-01280-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
How people relate to biodiversity and whether they are supportive of conservation programs and policies has implications on global and local biodiversity conservation efforts. Nature experiences in childhood has been shown to be strongly correlated to positive attitudes towards nature and wildlife in adulthood. In this study, we examined wildlife experience, attitudes and willingness to coexist with 26 vertebrates and invertebrates amongst residents in a highly urbanized tropical city, Singapore. A total of 1004 respondents were surveyed and their childhood nature experience and various socioeconomic variables were obtained. The animals were grouped by their likeability and preferred habitat from the respondents' answers. Three main groups of animals were discerned - unfavorable animals, mammals, and favorable animals. Singapore residents generally had high direct experiences of animals that are common in urban settings, for both favorable and unfavorable animals, such as butterflies, dragonflies, crows and bees, but low direct experiences of forest-dependent wildlife. Animals that were well-liked and acceptable near homes include the common urban ones and some forest-dependent ones, while animals that were disliked included stinging insects (bees and hornets) and reptiles (snakes and water monitors). Structured equation modelling showed that both childhood nature experience and wildlife experience had strong effects on wildlife likeability and habitat preference. The apparent mismatch between greening policies and people's willingness to coexist with wildlife may be problematic as urban development further encroaches on forest habitats, and this study highlights the importance of preserving forest habitats so that young children and adults have opportunities to be exposed to them. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11252-022-01280-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang Min Ngo
- Department of Tourism Science, Graduate School of Urban Environmental Sciences, Tokyo Metropolitan University, 1-1 Minamiosawa, Hachioji, Tokyo, 192-0397 Japan
- Present Address: Asian School of the Environment, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798 Singapore
| | - Tetsuro Hosaka
- Department of Tourism Science, Graduate School of Urban Environmental Sciences, Tokyo Metropolitan University, 1-1 Minamiosawa, Hachioji, Tokyo, 192-0397 Japan
- Graduate School for International Development and Cooperation, Hiroshima University, 1-5-1, Kagamiyama, Higashihiroshima, 739-852 Japan
| | - Shinya Numata
- Department of Tourism Science, Graduate School of Urban Environmental Sciences, Tokyo Metropolitan University, 1-1 Minamiosawa, Hachioji, Tokyo, 192-0397 Japan
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Fančovičová J, Prokop P, Repáková R, Medina-Jerez W. Factors Influencing the Sponsoring of Animals in Slovak Zoos. Animals (Basel) 2021; 12:ani12010021. [PMID: 35011128 PMCID: PMC8749688 DOI: 10.3390/ani12010021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary To achieve conservation goals with ex situ programs, zoos have two alternatives: government funding and private donations. By using published data from 2018 on the amount of money received by zoos through adoption programs (if any), we investigated the factors influencing donations in all Slovak zoos. Generalized linear mixed models were applied throughout statistical analyses. Although the majority of animal species in the zoos included in this study had low a conservation status, a few others, like amphibians, were rarely listed as threatened species. In general, vertebrates received more funding than invertebrates, and mammals were the preferred taxa by private contributors. Mammals were sponsored more frequently than non-mammal species, except for reptiles. We submit that zoo managers could concentrate their efforts on the breeding of threatened animals to support their reintroduction to the wild and to enhance people’s awareness of these animal species. Abstract Anthropogenic disturbance causes biodiversity loss, and consequently the captive conservation (ex situ) of threatened animals may be an effective strategy in protecting species. We used estimated body mass, phylogenetic closeness with humans, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) conservation status, and species attractiveness scores, to examine the factors influencing the adoption likelihood of a species in all Slovak zoos. In general, vertebrates received more funding than invertebrates, and mammals were the preferred taxa by private contributors. In terms of funding, we propose that the perception of mammals as phylogenetically close to humans, and attractiveness factor, contribute to an advantage over less attractive and phylogenetically distant species. Conservation status also contributed to the amount of donations; however, the magnitude of these relationships was weak when compared to the effect of animal taxa. These results suggest that Slovak zoos might be more successful in raising donations by breeding threatened species, and raising public awareness about these animal species. Displaying popular, flagship species of non-mammal taxa may increase interest among the public as well, and may translate into a significant growth in the amount of donations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Fančovičová
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Education, Trnava University, Priemyselná 4, 918 43 Trnava, Slovakia; (J.F.); (R.R.)
| | - Pavol Prokop
- Department of Environmental Ecology and Landscape Management, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, Ilkovičova 6, 842 15 Bratislava, Slovakia
- Institute of Zoology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 9, 845 06 Bratislava, Slovakia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +421-6-02-96236
| | - Róberta Repáková
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Education, Trnava University, Priemyselná 4, 918 43 Trnava, Slovakia; (J.F.); (R.R.)
| | - William Medina-Jerez
- Teacher Education Department, College of Education, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA;
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Human Positioning in Close-Encounter Photographs and the Effect on Public Perceptions of Zoo Animals. Animals (Basel) 2021; 12:ani12010011. [PMID: 35011117 PMCID: PMC8749715 DOI: 10.3390/ani12010011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
With the rising popularity of social media, conservation organisations and zoos need to understand its impact on public perceptions of the animals they house and their role in conservation. In addition, many zoos offer close-encounter experiences, and visitors frequently share images from these experiences online. This study measured the effects that viewing such encounter images had on public perceptions of both the zoo and the animals they saw. One of sixteen images was randomly presented to participants in two samples: one of Zoo Community followers and members of Zoos Victoria (n = 963), and a representative sample of the Australian public (n = 1619). Each image featured one of four animals (Eclectus parrot, Kangaroo Island kangaroo, Monteith's leaf insect, Centralian carpet python) and one of four human positions (human and animal touching, human and animal ~30 cm apart, human and animal ~1 m apart, animal alone). Results indicated that viewing different animals and the different human positions within these human-animal encounter images can affect public perceptions of zoo animals. In particular, the closer the proximity of a human to an animal in an image, the more likely respondents were to think that the animal was not displaying a natural behaviour and the more likely it was for General Public respondents to think that the animal would make a good pet. These findings can be used by zoos, wildlife tourism, and media organisations to ensure that they are sending clear, positive, and intended messages about zoo facilities and animals, as well as providing insights into animal encounter images in wider settings.
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Thinley P, Rajaratnam R, Norbu L, Dorji L, Tenzin J, Namgyal C, Yangzom C, Wangchuk T, Wangdi S, Dendup T, Tashi S, Wangmo C. Understanding Human–Canid Conflict and Coexistence: Socioeconomic Correlates Underlying Local Attitude and Support Toward the Endangered Dhole (Cuon alpinus) in Bhutan. FRONTIERS IN CONSERVATION SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fcosc.2021.691507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding human–canid conflict and coexistence must focus on documenting human–canid interactions and identifying the underlying drivers of reciprocal human attitude which enables appropriate strategies to minimize conflict and forge coexistence. The dhole (Cuon alpinus), Asia's most widely distributed wild canid, is highly threatened by human persecution and anthropogenic activities. Despite its “endangered” status, its ecological role as an apex predator, negative interactions with humans, and dhole-specific attitude studies are limited, thus hindering the development of a comprehensive dhole-conservation strategy. Here, we investigate the influence of socioeconomic factors of age, gender, income, residency inside/outside a protected area (PA), and other variables (cultural beliefs, livestock loss, and quantity of livestock loss) on the attitudes of local people and support for dhole conservation in the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan. We conducted a semi-structured questionnaire survey of 1,444 households located within the PA and non-PA from four representative regions in the country. Using R programming, we ran Pearson's chi-square test of independence to test the overall difference in the attitude and support for dhole conservation, followed by recursive partitioning through a conditional inference regression tree to identify its significant covariates with the highest explanatory power. Majority (79.1%) of respondents (χ2 = 488.6; df = 1; p < 0.001) disliked the dhole over those who liked it. More than half (57.7%) (χ2 = 412.7; df = 2; p < 0.001) opposed dhole conservation over those who either supported or remained neutral. Experience of livestock loss to dholes was the primary ( p < 0.001) factor influencing the negative attitude and opposition to dhole conservation, despite an acknowledgment of the ecological role of the dhole in controlling agricultural crop predators. Our study, which is the first-ever survey in Bhutan, solely focused on investigating human attitudes and perceptions toward the dhole, indicating that livestock loss to dholes transcends all positive attitudes to the species and drives a predominant dislike and opposition to its conservation. To improve the attitude and support toward the dhole and to foster dhole–human coexistence, livestock predation by dholes needs alleviation by improving the existing animal husbandry, in conjunction with promoting conservation awareness on this species.
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22
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Prokop P, Zvaríková M, Zvarík M, Pazda A, Fedor P. The Effect of Animal Bipedal Posture on Perceived Cuteness, Fear, and Willingness to Protect Them. Front Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.681241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Human–animal relationships have long been the subject of controversy because they are shaped by several cultural, inter-individual, and evolutionary factors. Understanding these relationships, however, is important to optimize conservation efforts. There is agreement that perceived similarity between animals and humans is associated with more positive attitudes. The human–animal similarity could be caused by phylogenetic closeness. We hypothesized that the bipedal posture of an animal may be perceived as a cue of phenotypic similarity with humans. We examined this topic by comparing perceived cuteness, fear, and willingness to protect animals differing in body posture, body size, and phylogenetic closeness with humans on a sample of N = 349 Slovak participants. We found that the bipedal posture enhanced perceived cuteness, but this effect was most pronounced in small-bodied animals, particularly those with direct eye contact. Phylogenetically close and small-bodied species (e.g., small mammals) received greater conservation support than phylogenetically distant species (e.g., invertebrates). However, anthropomorphic-looking animals received greater conservation support, suggesting that pictures of animals that more closely resemble humans can be used in conservation campaigns.
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23
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Randler C, Heil F. Determinants of Bird Species Literacy-Activity/Interest and Specialization Are More Important Than Socio-Demographic Variables. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061595. [PMID: 34071521 PMCID: PMC8229662 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Biodiversity is declining around the world and knowledge about biodiversity declines in a similar way. In this study, we addressed predictors of species knowledge, i.e., the question of what influences or causes species knowledge. The focus was knowledge about common bird species in Germany. Data were collected from July to October 2020 via an online questionnaire, containing demographic data, engagement in birdwatching, interest/activity, and images of 28 bird species native to Germany. Data were collected from adult students, lecturers and administrative staff of the Eberhard Karls University Tübingen. Men identified more species than women, garden owners more than non-owners. Hometown size had no influence. Employees scored higher than students. However, we found that birding specialization was the most important predictor, followed by bird-related interest/activity. We suggest including such questions in addition to conventional demographic questions in the future. Abstract Biodiversity is declining, and knowledge about biodiversity declines in a similar way. Previous studies have already addressed predictors of species knowledge. Here, we studied bird species knowledge related to demographics, but also to individual differences in affinity to nature, by including (i) birding specialization and (ii) bird-related activities/interest. Data were collected from July to October 2020 via an online questionnaire, containing demographic data, birding specialization, interest/activity, and images of 28 bird species native to Germany. Participants were adult students, lecturers and administrative staff of the Eberhard Karls University Tübingen. A total of 1967 questionnaires were returned in this study (35.3% male, 53.8% students, 69% had access to a garden). Mean identification score was 16.31 ± 6.38. Thus, participants were able to identify more than half of the species (total species n = 28). Men identified more species than women, garden owners had higher identification scores than non-owners, while hometown size was not significant. A distance to the next forest patch >10 km was related to lower identification scores. Employees scored higher than students. Correlation between species knowledge and birding specialization was high, as was the correlation with bird interest/activity. Higher scores were found in older people. In the linear univariate model, birding specialization and bird interest were the most influential predictors of species knowledge, followed by distance to next forest patch and occupation (student vs employees). Other variables were not significant. We suggest including such measures (interest, attitude, etc.) into further studies and move forward from the urban–rural narrative to more complex analyses of living circumstances.
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Hinde K, Amorim CEG, Brokaw AF, Burt N, Casillas MC, Chen A, Chestnut T, Connors PK, Dasari M, Ditelberg CF, Dietrick J, Drew J, Durgavich L, Easterling B, Henning C, Hilborn A, Karlsson EK, Kissel M, Kobylecky J, Krell J, Lee DN, Lesciotto KM, Lewton KL, Light JE, Martin J, Murphy A, Nickley W, Núñez-de la Mora A, Pellicer O, Pellicer V, Perry AM, Schuttler SG, Stone AC, Tanis B, Weber J, Wilson M, Willcocks E, Anderson CN. March Mammal Madness and the power of narrative in science outreach. eLife 2021; 10:e65066. [PMID: 33616530 PMCID: PMC7899649 DOI: 10.7554/elife.65066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
March Mammal Madness is a science outreach project that, over the course of several weeks in March, reaches hundreds of thousands of people in the United States every year. We combine four approaches to science outreach - gamification, social media platforms, community event(s), and creative products - to run a simulated tournament in which 64 animals compete to become the tournament champion. While the encounters between the animals are hypothetical, the outcomes rely on empirical evidence from the scientific literature. Players select their favored combatants beforehand, and during the tournament scientists translate the academic literature into gripping "play-by-play" narration on social media. To date ~1100 scholarly works, covering almost 400 taxa, have been transformed into science stories. March Mammal Madness is most typically used by high-school educators teaching life sciences, and we estimate that our materials reached ~1% of high-school students in the United States in 2019. Here we document the intentional design, public engagement, and magnitude of reach of the project. We further explain how human psychological and cognitive adaptations for shared experiences, social learning, narrative, and imagery contribute to the widespread use of March Mammal Madness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Hinde
- School of Human Evolution and Social Change, the Center for Evolution and Medicine, and the School of Sustainability, Arizona State UniversityTempeUnited States
- Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard UniversityCambridgeUnited States
| | - Carlos Eduardo G Amorim
- Department of Biology, California State University NorthridgeNorthridgeUnited States
- Department of Computational Biology, University of LausanneLausanneSwitzerland
| | - Alyson F Brokaw
- Interdisciplinary Program in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Department of Biology, Texas A&M UniversityCollege StationUnited States
| | - Nicole Burt
- Department of Human Health and Evolutionary Medicine, Cleveland Museum of Natural HistoryClevelandUnited States
| | | | - Albert Chen
- Milner Centre for Evolution, University of BathBathUnited Kingdom
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of CambridgeCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - Tara Chestnut
- National Park ServiceMount Rainier National ParkUnited States
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Oregon State UniversityCorvallisUnited States
| | - Patrice K Connors
- Department of Biological Sciences, Colorado Mesa UniversityGrand JunctionUnited States
| | - Mauna Dasari
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre DameNotre DameUnited States
| | | | | | - Josh Drew
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia UniversityNew YorkUnited States
- Department of Vertebrate Zoology, American Museum of Natural HistorySyracuseUnited States
- Department of Environmental and Forest Biology, SUNY College of Environmental Science and ForestrySyracuseUnited States
| | - Lara Durgavich
- Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard UniversityCambridgeUnited States
- Department of Anthropology, Boston UniversityBostonUnited States
- Department of Anthropology, Tufts UniversityMedfordUnited States
| | | | | | - Anne Hilborn
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, University of California RiversideRiversideUnited States
| | - Elinor K Karlsson
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterUnited States
- Broad Institute of MIT and HarvardCambridgeUnited States
| | - Marc Kissel
- Department of Anthropology, Appalachian State UniversityBooneUnited States
- Department of Anthropology, University of Notre DameNotre DameUnited States
| | | | - Jason Krell
- Center for Science and Imagination, Arizona State UniversityTempeUnited States
| | - Danielle N Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, Southern Illinois University EdwardsvilleEdwardsvilleUnited States
| | - Kate M Lesciotto
- Department of Clinical Anatomy, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Sam Houston State UniversityHuntsvilleUnited States
- Department of Anthropology, Pennsylvania State UniversityState CollegeUnited States
| | - Kristi L Lewton
- Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard UniversityCambridgeUnited States
- Department of Integrative Anatomical Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesUnited States
- Department of Mammalogy, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles CountyLos AngelesUnited States
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, Boston University School of MedicineBostonUnited States
| | - Jessica E Light
- Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology, the Biodiversity Research and Teaching Collections, and the Interdisciplinary Program in Ecology and Evolution, Texas A&M UniversityCollege StationUnited States
| | - Jessica Martin
- School of Human Evolution and Social Change, Arizona State UniversityTempeUnited States
| | - Asia Murphy
- Department of Ecosystem Science and Management, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State UniversityUniversity ParkUnited States
| | - William Nickley
- Department of Design, The Ohio State UniversityColumbusUnited States
| | | | | | | | - Anali Maughan Perry
- Engagement & Learning Services, ASU Library, Arizona State UniversityTempeUnited States
| | | | - Anne C Stone
- Human Evolution and Social Change, the Center for Evolution, and Medicine, and the Institute of Human Origins, Arizona State UniversityTempeUnited States
| | - Brian Tanis
- Department of Biology, Oregon State University-CascadesBendUnited States
| | - Jesse Weber
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin-MadisonMadisonUnited States
| | - Melissa Wilson
- School of Life Sciences and the Center for Evolution and Medicine, Arizona State UniversityTempeUnited States
| | - Emma Willcocks
- Department of Biology, Brown UniversityProvidenceUnited States
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Lenda M, Skórka P, Mazur B, Sutherland W, Tryjanowski P, Moroń D, Meijaard E, Possingham HP, Wilson KA. Effects of amusing memes on concern for unappealing species. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2020; 34:1200-1209. [PMID: 32348597 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
There is limited knowledge of the mechanisms that can inspire people's concern and engagement in the protection of unpopular and unappealing species. We analyzed Polish people's interest in themed internet memes featuring the proboscis monkey (Nasalis larvatus) and the consequences of this interest for conservation marketing. We examined Google Trends data, used Google Search, and searched popular media materials to estimate interest in the proboscis monkey in Poland. Photos of the proboscis monkey when presented with humor in internet memes attracted as much interest as usually more popular species (e.g., koala, panda, and orangutan) used in marketing by nongovernmental organizations. Amusing internet memes spread by social media positively correlated with increasing interest in the unappealing species, such as proboscis monkey. Interest in amusing internet memes positively correlated with individuals' decisions to donate to 6 crowdfunding actions. Thus, conservation marketing that includes amusing memes and social media may provide a worthwhile complement to traditional campaigns and are likely to influence individuals who are unaffected by the usual means.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Lenda
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Environmental Decisions, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, Mickiewicza 33, Kraków, 31-120, Poland
| | - Pjoter Skórka
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, Mickiewicza 33, Kraków, 31-120, Poland
| | - Błażej Mazur
- Department of Empirical Analyses of Economic Stability, Cracow University of Economics, Rakowicka 27, Cracow, 31-510, Poland
| | - William Sutherland
- Conservation Science Group, Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ, U.K
| | - Piotr Tryjanowski
- Institute of Zoology, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Poznan, 60-625, Poland
| | - Dawid Moroń
- Institute of Systematics and Evolution of Animals, Polish Academy of Sciences, Slawkowska 17, Krakow, 31-016, Poland
| | - Erik Meijaard
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Environmental Decisions, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
- Borneo Futures, Block C, Unit C8, Second Floor, Lot 51461, Kg Kota Batu, Mukim Kota Batu, Negara, Brunei Darussalam
| | - Hugh P Possingham
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Environmental Decisions, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
- The Nature Conservancy, 4245 Fairfax Dr., #100, Arlington, VA, 22203, U.S.A
| | - Kerrie A Wilson
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Environmental Decisions, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
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Sharma S, Sharma HP, Katuwal HB, Belant JL. Knowledge of the Critically Endangered Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) by local people in Sindhupalchok, Nepal. Glob Ecol Conserv 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2020.e01052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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Bawa Mothilal Krishnakumar, Rajarathinavelu Nagarajan, Kanagaraj Muthamizh selvan. Living with Leopard Panthera pardus fusca (Mammalia: Carnivora: Felidae): livestock depredation and community perception in Kalakkad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, southern Western Ghats. JOURNAL OF THREATENED TAXA 2020. [DOI: 10.11609/jott.5206.12.10.16210-16218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Livestock depredation by large carnivores and retaliatory killings have become worldwide conservation issues. Leopard depredation of livestock across their range undermines public support for their conservation, resulting in contentious coexistence between the leopard and humans. Lack of knowledge on the patterns of livestock depredation often hinders the formulation of effective conservation management policies. We conducted a questionnaire survey on 656 respondents to assess the extent of livestock depredation and their attitudes towards leopards. Leopard kills included goats (49%) as the main prey, followed by the domestic dog (28%), hen (12%), sheep (5%), cow (4%), and cat (2%). Our results show that depredation varied significantly across seasons (KW = 30.33, df = 2, P < 0.05); 47% of domestic animals were killed during monsoon, followed by 33% in winter, and 20% in summer. Leopards killed 49.96% of goats as they grazed, 50% of sheep when tethered at the house, 67% of cows while in the corral, and 59% of dogs while they roamed freely around the house. Though local people experienced significant levels of livestock losses, about 68% expressed positive attitudes towards leopard conservation. Positive attitudes were revealed by their awareness about conservation and by moral consciousness towards killing of animals, which is forbidden in their religion. In the present study site, fodder cultivation and stall feeding would reduce the grazing-related attack. Similarly, simple changes in the husbandry practices such as closed fence type instead of stockade, effectively reduce enclosure-related depredation.
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Thomas-Walters L, McNulty C, Veríssimo D. A scoping review into the impact of animal imagery on pro-environmental outcomes. AMBIO 2020; 49:1135-1145. [PMID: 31654239 PMCID: PMC7127996 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-019-01271-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
With the recognition that most global environmental problems are a result of human actions, there is an increasing interest in approaches which have the potential to influence human behaviour. Images have a powerful role in shaping persuasive messages, yet research on the impacts of visual representations of nature is a neglected area in biodiversity conservation. We systematically screened existing studies on the use of animal imagery in conservation, identifying 37 articles. Although there is clear evidence that images of animals can have positive effects on people's attitudes to animals, overall there is currently a dearth of accessible and comparable published data demonstrating the efficacy of animal imagery. Most existing studies are place and context-specific, limiting the generalisable conclusions that can be drawn. Transdisciplinary research is needed to develop a robust understanding of the contextual and cultural factors that affect how animal images can be used effectively for conservation purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Thomas-Walters
- Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, University of Kent, Giles Ln, Canterbury, CT2 7NZ UK
| | - Claire McNulty
- National Geographic Society, 10 Hammersmith Grove, London, W6 7AP UK
| | - Diogo Veríssimo
- Oxford Martin Fellow, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, Escondido, CA USA
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de Oliveira JV, da Silva MXG, Borges AKM, Souto WMS, de Faria Lopes S, de Brito Melo Trovão DM, Barboza RRD, Alves RRN. Fauna and conservation in the context of formal education: a study of urban and rural students in the semi-arid region of Brazil. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2020; 16:21. [PMID: 32334628 PMCID: PMC7183685 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-020-00374-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In addition to playing a key role in the dynamics of ecosystems, animal diversity, especially that of wild vertebrates, is intimately linked with human evolutionary history, which has resulted in diverse interactions that must be emphasized in formal education processes. We analyzed several methods of approaches used for biological education in order to teach about wild vertebrates and their conservation in urban and rural schools in the semi-arid region of Brazil. METHODS Data were obtained via questionnaires applied to 990 students, of which 528 were urban and 462 rural, distributed among the seven grades/years that comprise the last two cycles of basic education in Brazil. The richness and diversity of the animals cited by the students were calculated, being the diversity using an adaptation of the equation for the Shannon-Weaver Index (H'). Data were analyzed using non-parametric descriptive statistics. RESULTS Mammals and birds had the greatest richness and diversity of animals cited as most-studied in science/biology classes, and also the most indicated as occurring in the studied region. Among mammals, large carnivores with a showy appearance and utilitarian value had the highest citation frequencies, while there was a tendency for limited recognition of faunistic diversity in the other groups mentioned. Almost 70% of the students stated that their schooling processes dealt with the conservation of wild animals; however, about 50% of the students in both urban and rural contexts did not express conceptual understanding about the conservation of nature. CONCLUSIONS The recognition of animal diversity, especially vertebrates, beyond just mammals and birds, as well as conceptual clarity about the conservation of nature, are fundamental factors for the development of critical awareness of fauna and its conservation, and where the processes of schooling have a preponderant role. Finally, the study contributes to the legitimization of Ethnobiology as an interdisciplinary field of knowledge, especially in its interface with education, in addition to pointing out the importance of optimizing efforts in approaches to biodiversity conservation in formal educational processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Valberto de Oliveira
- Departamento de Biologia e Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Av. das Baraúnas, 351/Campus Universitário, Bodocongó, Campina Grande, PB, 58109-753, Brazil.
| | - Moacyr Xavier Gomes da Silva
- Departamento de Biologia e Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Av. das Baraúnas, 351/Campus Universitário, Bodocongó, Campina Grande, PB, 58109-753, Brazil
| | - Anna Karolina Martins Borges
- Programa de Pos-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas (Zoologia), Departamento de Sistemática e Ecologia da Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, 58051-900, Brazil
| | - Wedson Medeiros Silva Souto
- Department of Biology, Laboratory of Zoology, Wildlife Use and Conservation (ZUCON), Federal University of Piaui (UFPI), Campus Ministro Petrônio Portella, Teresina, PI, 64049-550, Brazil
| | - Sérgio de Faria Lopes
- Departamento de Biologia e Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Av. das Baraúnas, 351/Campus Universitário, Bodocongó, Campina Grande, PB, 58109-753, Brazil
| | - Dilma Maria de Brito Melo Trovão
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Av. das Baraúnas, 351/Campus, Universitário, Bodocongó, Campina Grande, PB, 58109-753, Brazil
| | - Raynner Rilke Duarte Barboza
- Colégio Aplicação - CAP, Universidade Federal de Roraima, Avenida Capitão Ene Garcês, 2413 - Aeroporto, Campus do Paricarana, Boa Vista, 69310-000, Brazil
| | - Rômulo Romeu Nóbrega Alves
- Departamento de Biologia e Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Av. das Baraúnas, 351/Campus Universitário, Bodocongó, Campina Grande, PB, 58109-753, Brazil
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Curtin P, Papworth S. Coloring and size influence preferences for imaginary animals, and can predict actual donations to species‐specific conservation charities. Conserv Lett 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/conl.12723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Polly Curtin
- Department of Biological Sciences, Royal HollowayUniversity of London Egham Hill Egham UK
| | - Sarah Papworth
- Department of Biological Sciences, Royal HollowayUniversity of London Egham Hill Egham UK
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Expanding the Role of Biodiversity in Laypeople’s Lives: The View of Communicators. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12072768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Biodiversity is a fundamental part of sustainable development, yet it is threatened by numerous factors associated with human population growth. The current lack of broad-based support for biodiversity conservation may be explained by the widening gap between people and nature. In order to conserve biodiversity, people should be engaged in biodiversity, yet it is not yet clear what potential is present in highly urbanized environments. We conducted semi-structured interviews with twelve biodiversity communicators in the Netherlands, a highly urbanized country, and used their perceptions and experiences to explore motivations, opportunities and challenges for expanding the role of biodiversity in people’s lives in an increasingly urban world. Overall, the interviewees perceived the current role of biodiversity in laypeople’s lives to be too limited, but they were positive about the potential to expand the role. Based on communicators’ perceptions potential lies in a combination of direct exposure to biodiversity outdoors, the media, and education. Furthermore, strategically designed communication is also expected to play an essential part in opening people’s eyes for biodiversity. The results are valuable both at national and international levels, as they can motivate and aid professionals operating in urbanized contexts at reaching out to their audiences about biodiversity.
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Love Off, Fear On? Brown Bear Acceptance by Teenagers in European Countries with Differing Population Statuses. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12062397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The acceptance of large carnivores is one of the key issues for their conservation. We analyzed the level acceptance of brown bears (Ursus arctos Linnaeus, 1758) amongst 10–18 year old school students in four European countries using anonymous questionnaires. Our aim was to characterize the drivers of species acceptance, described as a rural–urban cline, as well as fear levels and the respondents’ familiarity with bears. We found lower levels of acceptance of bears were related to fear of bears and that bear acceptance was not higher in the bear-inhabited countries, but urban inhabitants tended to better accept the species. Factor analysis revealed the importance of country-related aspects, familiarity with bears, experiences in human-wildlife conflict, gender-age differences, respondent’s relationship to nature and the origin of their knowledge of the species. We consider that bear-related education and mass media in Latvia and Lithuania could reduce fear of these animals and sustain their acceptance, while human–wildlife conflict management measures in Bulgaria and Turkey are recommended to boost the appreciation of the species.
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Brom P, Anderson P, Channing A, Underhill LG. The role of cultural norms in shaping attitudes towards amphibians in Cape Town, South Africa. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0219331. [PMID: 32092067 PMCID: PMC7039669 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0219331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Urban ecosystems are increasingly viewed as an important component within strategies for wildlife conservation but are shaped as much by natural systems as they are by social and political processes. At the garden scale, attitudes and preferences govern design and maintenance choices including the decision to encourage or discourage specific faunal presence. At the global scale, charismatic taxa that are well-liked attract more conservation funding and volunteer stewardship. Amphibians are a class of animals that are both loved and loathed making them a suitable subject for comparing and unpacking the drivers of preference and attitudes towards animals. We conducted a mixed methods survey of 192 participants in three adjacent neighbourhoods in Cape Town, South Africa. The survey included both quantitative and qualitative questions which were analysed thematically and used to explain the quantitative results. The results revealed that attitudes formed during childhood tended to be retained into adulthood, were shaped by cultural norms, childhood experiences and the attitudes of primary care-givers. The findings are significant for environmental education programmes aimed at building connectedness to nature and biophilic values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peta Brom
- Department of Environmental and Geographic Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - Pippin Anderson
- Department of Environmental and Geographic Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Alan Channing
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North West University, South Africa
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Schuttler SG, Stevenson K, Kays R, Dunn RR. Children's attitudes towards animals are similar across suburban, exurban, and rural areas. PeerJ 2019; 7:e7328. [PMID: 31372320 PMCID: PMC6659664 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.7328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The decline in the number of hours Americans spend outdoors, exacerbated by urbanization, has affected people’s familiarity with local wildlife. This is concerning to conservationists, as people tend to care about and invest in what they know. Children represent the future supporters of conservation, such that their knowledge about and feelings toward wildlife have the potential to influence conservation for many years to come. Yet, little research has been conducted on children’s attitudes toward wildlife, particularly across zones of urbanization. We surveyed 2,759 4–8th grade children across 22 suburban, exurban, and rural schools in North Carolina to determine their attitudes toward local, domestic, and exotic animals. We predicted that children who live in rural or exurban areas, where they may have more direct access to more wildlife species, would list more local animals as “liked” and fewer as “scary” compared to children in suburban areas. However, children, regardless of where they lived, provided mostly non-native mammals for open-ended responses, and were more likely to list local animals as scary than as liked. We found urbanization to have little effect on the number of local animals children listed, and the rankings of “liked” animals were correlated across zones of urbanization. Promising for conservation was that half of the top “liked” animals included species or taxonomic groups containing threatened or endangered species. Despite different levels of urbanization, children had either an unfamiliarity with and/or low preference for local animals, suggesting that a disconnect between children and local biodiversity is already well-established, even in more rural areas where many wildlife species can be found.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kathryn Stevenson
- Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Roland Kays
- North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Raleigh, NC, USA.,Department of Forestry & Environmental Resources, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Robert R Dunn
- Department of Applied Ecology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.,Center for Macroecology, Evolution and Climate, Natural History Museum of Denmark, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Frynta D, Peléšková Š, Rádlová S, Janovcová M, Landová E. Human evaluation of amphibian species: a comparison of disgust and beauty. Naturwissenschaften 2019; 106:41. [PMID: 31263997 DOI: 10.1007/s00114-019-1635-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Animals can evoke a wide range of emotions helping us to choose a quick and appropriate reaction towards them: approach or avoidance in general. This work has focused on disgust evoked by amphibians in humans as well as perceived beauty. Due to the high morphological variability of recent amphibian taxa, we examined humans' cognitive categorisation of 101 amphibian photos and the effect of stimuli characteristics on disgust evaluation or beauty perception of individual groups/species. We also explored how respondents' characteristics, e.g. gender, age and disgust sensitivity (DS-R) influence the disgust and beauty evaluation of picture stimuli on a 7-point Likert scale. The scores of disgust and beauty evaluation were strongly negatively correlated, representing the opposite ends of a single axis, further referred to as the index of preference. The most preferred amphibians belonged to anurans, whereas the least preferred ones were mostly worm-like, legless and small-eyed caecilians. Additional analyses of morphologically diverse anurans showed that species with a round body shape, short forelegs, small eyes, warts, pink and grey colouration, or dark and dull colouration were perceived as disgusting or ugly. The effect of gender and age were only marginal; however, people with higher disgust sensitivity rated amphibians as more disgusting and less beautiful, which might support the hypothesis of a possible disgust involvement in animal fears and phobias. This topic has implications not only for the nature conservation decisions of globally endangered amphibians but also for understanding the evolution of disgust and its generalisation to harmless animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Frynta
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Viničná 7, 128 43, Prague, Czech Republic.,National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67, Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Šárka Peléšková
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Viničná 7, 128 43, Prague, Czech Republic.,National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67, Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Silvie Rádlová
- National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67, Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Markéta Janovcová
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Viničná 7, 128 43, Prague, Czech Republic.,National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67, Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Landová
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Viničná 7, 128 43, Prague, Czech Republic. .,National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67, Klecany, Czech Republic.
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Janovcová M, Rádlová S, Polák J, Sedláčková K, Peléšková Š, Žampachová B, Frynta D, Landová E. Human Attitude toward Reptiles: A Relationship between Fear, Disgust, and Aesthetic Preferences. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:E238. [PMID: 31091781 PMCID: PMC6562393 DOI: 10.3390/ani9050238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Focusing on one group of animals can bring interesting results regarding our attitudes toward them and show the key features that our evaluation of such animals is based on. Thus, we designed a study of human perception of all reptiles focusing on the relationship between perceived fear, disgust, and aesthetic preferences and differences between snakes and other reptiles. Two sets containing 127 standardized photos of reptiles were developed, with one species per each subfamily. Respondents were asked to rate the animals according to fear, disgust, and beauty on a seven-point Likert scale. Evaluation of reptile species shows that people tend to perceive them as two clearly distinct groups based on their similar morphotype. In a subset of lizards, there was a positive correlation between fear and disgust, while disgust and fear were both negatively correlated with beauty. Surprisingly, a positive correlation between fear and beauty of snakes was revealed, i.e., the most feared species also tend to be perceived as beautiful. Snakes represent a distinct group of animals that is also reflected in the theory of attentional prioritization of snakes as an evolutionary relevant threat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markéta Janovcová
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, 128 43 Prague, Czech Republic.
- National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67 Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Silvie Rádlová
- National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67 Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Jakub Polák
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, 128 43 Prague, Czech Republic.
- National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67 Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Kristýna Sedláčková
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, 128 43 Prague, Czech Republic.
- National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67 Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Šárka Peléšková
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, 128 43 Prague, Czech Republic.
- National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67 Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Žampachová
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, 128 43 Prague, Czech Republic.
- National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67 Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Daniel Frynta
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, 128 43 Prague, Czech Republic.
- National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67 Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Landová
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, 128 43 Prague, Czech Republic.
- National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67 Klecany, Czech Republic
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de Oliveira JV, de Faria Lopes S, Barboza RRD, de Melo Brito Trovão DM, Ramos MB, Nóbrega Alves RR. Wild vertebrates and their representation by urban/rural students in a region of northeast Brazil. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2019; 15:1. [PMID: 30611288 PMCID: PMC6321674 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-018-0283-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recognition of the diversity of living beings, including the classification and naming of species, is a fundamental condition for biological literacy with the aim of developing critical awareness of human relationships with nature, and for which formal education plays an important role. The present study aimed to analyze the representation that urban/rural students have for wild vertebrates and their main sources of knowledge. METHODS Data collection took place in three public schools, one urban and two rural, in the municipality of Campina Grande, Paraíba, Brazil. Questionnaires were given to 990 students (528 urban and 462 rural), distributed among all the grades that comprise middle school (Ensino Fundamental II, grades 6-9) and high school (Ensino Médio, grades 10-12) education. RESULTS A total of 5877 citations were mentioned by the students, which corresponded to 224 distinct animals with 166 (72.0%) being wild vertebrates, 24 (25.7%) being domestic vertebrates, and 34 (2.3%) being invertebrates. Mammals and reptiles had the greatest observed richness of citations, while mammals (H' = 3.37), birds (H' = 2.84), and invertebrates (H' = 2.94) had the greatest diversity. Positive correlations were found between citations of wild vertebrates and family income (rt = 0.06; P < 0.05) and curricular development (rs = 0.08; P < 0.01); negative correlations were found between curricular development and citations of domestic animals (rs = - 0.22; rs = - 0.11 P < 0.01) and between age group and citations of invertebrates (r = - 0.14; rs = - 0.11 P < 0.01). As for the sources of knowledge regarding the animals indicated by the students, "media," "daily experiences," "tradition" (here understood as knowledge resulting from interactions with parents and experienced community members), and "formal education" stood out. CONCLUSIONS Comprehension of vertebrate diversity is a fundamental condition for the development of attitudes compatible with its conservation, which emphasizes the importance of biological literacy in achieving this purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Valberto de Oliveira
- Departamento de Biologia e Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Consevação da Natureza, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Av. das Baraúnas, 351/Campus Universitário, Bodocongó, Campina Grande-PB, 58109-753 Brazil
| | - Sérgio de Faria Lopes
- Departamento de Biologia e Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Consevação da Natureza, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Av. das Baraúnas, 351/Campus Universitário, Bodocongó, Campina Grande-PB, 58109-753 Brazil
| | - Raynner Rilke Duarte Barboza
- Escola Agrotecnica EAGRO, Universidade Federal de Roraima, Rodovia BR 174, Km 37, s/n – P.A. Nova Amazônia, Campus Murupu, Boa Vista-RR, 69.300-000 Brazil
| | - Dilma Maria de Melo Brito Trovão
- Departamento de Biologia e Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Consevação da Natureza, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Av. das Baraúnas, 351/Campus Universitário, Bodocongó, Campina Grande-PB, 58109-753 Brazil
| | - Maiara Bezerra Ramos
- Departamento de Biologia e Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Consevação da Natureza, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Av. das Baraúnas, 351/Campus Universitário, Bodocongó, Campina Grande-PB, 58109-753 Brazil
| | - Rômulo Romeu Nóbrega Alves
- Departamento de Biologia e Programa de Pós-Graduação em Etnobiologia e Consevação da Natureza, Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Av. das Baraúnas, 351/Campus Universitário, Bodocongó, Campina Grande-PB, 58109-753 Brazil
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Gheler-Costa C, Soncksen BM, Santos GMC, Rosalino LM. Perceptions of nature conservation by future biologists attending private universities in São Paulo State, Brazil. Ecol Res 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s11284-018-1621-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Landová E, Bakhshaliyeva N, Janovcová M, Peléšková Š, Suleymanova M, Polák J, Guliev A, Frynta D. Association Between Fear and Beauty Evaluation of Snakes: Cross-Cultural Findings. Front Psychol 2018; 9:333. [PMID: 29615942 PMCID: PMC5865084 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.00333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 02/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
According to the fear module theory, humans are evolutionarily predisposed to perceive snakes as prioritized stimuli and exhibit a fast emotional and behavioral response toward them. In Europe, highly dangerous snake species are distributed almost exclusively in the Mediterranean and Caspian areas. While the risk of a snakebite is relatively low in Central Europe, Azerbaijan, on the other hand, has a high occurrence of the deadly venomous Levant viper (Macrovipera lebetina). We hypothesize that co-habitation with this dangerous snake has shaped the way in which humans evaluate snake species resembling it. For that purpose, we asked respondents from the Czech Republic and Azerbaijan to rank photographs depicting 36 snake species according to perceived fear and beauty. The results revealed a high cross-cultural agreement in both evaluations (fear r2 = 0.683, p < 0.0001; beauty: r2 = 0.816, p < 0.0001). Snakes species eliciting higher fear tend to be also perceived as more beautiful, yet people are able to clearly distinguish between these two dimensions. Deadly venomous snakes representing a serious risk are perceived as highly fearful. This is especially true for the vipers and allies (pit vipers) possessing a characteristic body shape with a distinct triangular head and thick body, which was found as the most fear evoking by respondents from both countries. Although the attitude toward snakes is more negative among the respondents from Azerbaijan, their fear evaluation is similar to the Czechs. For instance, despite co-habitation with the Levant viper, it was not rated by the Azerbaijanis as more fearful than other dangerous snakes. In conclusion, agreement in the evaluation of snake fear and beauty is cross-culturally high and relative fear attributed to selected snake species is not directly explainable by the current environmental and cultural differences. This may provide some support for the evolutionary hypothesis of preparedness to fear snakes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Landová
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia.,Applied Neurosciences and Brain Imaging, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia
| | | | - Markéta Janovcová
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia.,Applied Neurosciences and Brain Imaging, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia
| | - Šárka Peléšková
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia.,Applied Neurosciences and Brain Imaging, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia
| | - Mesma Suleymanova
- Natural Historical Museum Named After Gasanbey Zardabi, Baku, Azerbaijan
| | - Jakub Polák
- Applied Neurosciences and Brain Imaging, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia.,Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Akif Guliev
- Biology Faculty, Baku State University, Baku, Azerbaijan
| | - Daniel Frynta
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia.,Applied Neurosciences and Brain Imaging, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia
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Veríssimo D, Campbell HA, Tollington S, MacMillan DC, Smith RJ. Why do people donate to conservation? Insights from a 'real world' campaign. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0191888. [PMID: 29370291 PMCID: PMC5785011 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0191888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) play a key role in biodiversity conservation. The majority of these organisations rely on public donations to fund their activities, and therefore fundraising success is a determinant of conservation outcomes. In spite of this integral relationship, the key principals for fundraising success in conservation are still guided by expert opinion and anecdotal evidence, with very few quantitative studies in the literature. Here we assessed the behaviour of monetary donors across twenty-five different species-focused conservation campaigns organised by an NGO conservation and environmental society. The Australian Geographic Society (AGS) carried out fundraising campaigns over a five and half year period using an identical methodology in thirty-four of its country-wide network of outlet shops. AGS owns and operates these shops that sell toys and games related to science and nature. We tested how the following factors influenced monetary donations from members of the public:1) campaign duration, 2) appeal and familiarity of species, 3) species geographic distribution relative to the fundraising location, 4) level of income and education of potential donors, 5) age and gender profile of potential donors. Contrary to past research, we found most of these factors did not significantly influence the amount of donations made to each campaign by members of the public. Larger animals did elicit a significantly higher amount donated per transaction than smaller animals, as did shops located in poorer neighbourhoods. Our study findings contrast with past research that has focused largely on hypothetical donations data collected via surveys, and demonstrates the complexity and case-specific nature of relationships between donor characteristics and spending patterns. The study highlights the value of assessing real-world fundraising campaigns, and illustrates how collaboration between academia and NGOs could be used to better tailor fundraising campaigns to maximise donations from individual citizens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo Veríssimo
- Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (DV); (HAC)
| | - Hamish A. Campbell
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, Australia
- * E-mail: (DV); (HAC)
| | - Simon Tollington
- Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
- North of England Zoological Society, Chester Zoo, Chester, United Kingdom
| | - Douglas C. MacMillan
- Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | - Robert J. Smith
- Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
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van Heezik Y, Hight SR. Socio-economic-driven differences in bird-feeding practices exacerbate existing inequities in opportunities to see native birds in cities. JOURNAL OF URBAN ECOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/jue/jux011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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42
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Kronenberg J, Andersson E, Tryjanowski P. Connecting the social and the ecological in the focal species concept: case study of White Stork. NATURE CONSERVATION 2017. [DOI: 10.3897/natureconservation.22.12055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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Loyd KAT, Hernandez SM, McRuer DL. The role of domestic cats in the admission of injured wildlife at rehabilitation and rescue centers. WILDLIFE SOC B 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/wsb.737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kerrie Anne T. Loyd
- Arizona State University Colleges at Lake Havasu; Lake Havasu City AZ 86403 USA
| | - Sonia M. Hernandez
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources and the Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study; University of Georgia; Athens GA 30602 USA
| | - David L. McRuer
- The Wildlife Center of Virginia; P.O. Box 155 Waynesboro VA 22980 USA
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Soga M, Gaston KJ, Yamaura Y, Kurisu K, Hanaki K. Both Direct and Vicarious Experiences of Nature Affect Children's Willingness to Conserve Biodiversity. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:ijerph13060529. [PMID: 27231925 PMCID: PMC4923986 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13060529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2016] [Revised: 05/16/2016] [Accepted: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Children are becoming less likely to have direct contact with nature. This ongoing loss of human interactions with nature, the extinction of experience, is viewed as one of the most fundamental obstacles to addressing global environmental challenges. However, the consequences for biodiversity conservation have been examined very little. Here, we conducted a questionnaire survey of elementary schoolchildren and investigated effects of the frequency of direct (participating in nature-based activities) and vicarious experiences of nature (reading books or watching TV programs about nature and talking about nature with parents or friends) on their affective attitudes (individuals’ emotional feelings) toward and willingness to conserve biodiversity. A total of 397 children participated in the surveys in Tokyo. Children’s affective attitudes and willingness to conserve biodiversity were positively associated with the frequency of both direct and vicarious experiences of nature. Path analysis showed that effects of direct and vicarious experiences on children’s willingness to conserve biodiversity were mediated by their affective attitudes. This study demonstrates that children who frequently experience nature are likely to develop greater emotional affinity to and support for protecting biodiversity. We suggest that children should be encouraged to experience nature and be provided with various types of these experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masashi Soga
- Department of Urban Engineering, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan.
| | - Kevin J Gaston
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9FE, UK.
| | - Yuichi Yamaura
- Forestry and Forest Product Research Institute, Matsunosato 1, Tsukuba 305-8687, Japan.
| | - Kiyo Kurisu
- Department of Urban Engineering, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan.
| | - Keisuke Hanaki
- Department of Urban Engineering, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan.
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Powell DM, Ardaiolo M. Survey of U.S. zoo and aquarium animal care staff attitudes regarding humane euthanasia for population management. Zoo Biol 2016; 35:187-200. [PMID: 26934585 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2015] [Revised: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The humane euthanasia of animals for population management, or culling, has been suggested as one possible tool for managing animal populations for sustainability, and recent, highly publicized euthanasia of zoo animals in Copenhagen has stimulated global conversation about population management in zoos. We conducted a nationwide survey of U.S. zoo and aquarium personnel, including keepers, managers, and leaders of AZA animal programs, to assess their overall attitudes regarding population management euthanasia. The surveyed populations were generally very aware of the concept of population management euthanasia. Managers and animal program leaders were more supportive of euthanasia than keepers. We found that regardless of role, men were more supportive of euthanasia than women. Those personnel who were aware of instances of population management euthanasia at their institutions before were more supportive of it than those who were not. Support for culling varied with the kind of animal being considered for it, with three general taxon acceptability groupings emerging. Education, tenure in the profession, taxonomic expertise, and whether or not the responder took the survey before or after the Copenhagen events were not strong predictors of attitudes. Overall, the surveyed populations were approximately evenly split in terms of being in favor of euthanasia, not supporting euthanasia, or being unsure. Most responders indicated that they would be more likely to accept culling if more information was provided on its rationale. These results will form the basis for further discussions on the role of humane euthanasia for population management. Zoo Biol. 35:187-200, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Powell
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, New York
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Lorenz AR, Libarkin JC, Ording GJ. Disgust in response to some arthropods aligns with disgust provoked by pathogens. Glob Ecol Conserv 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2014.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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Frynta D, Šimková O, Lišková S, Landová E. Mammalian collection on Noah's Ark: the effects of beauty, brain and body size. PLoS One 2013; 8:e63110. [PMID: 23690985 PMCID: PMC3654911 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0063110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2012] [Accepted: 03/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The importance of today's zoological gardens as the so-called "Noah's Ark" grows as the natural habitat of many species quickly diminishes. Their potential to shelter a large amount of individuals from many species gives us the opportunity to reintroduce a species that disappeared in nature. However, the selection of animals to be kept in zoos worldwide is highly selective and depends on human decisions driven by both ecological criteria such as population size or vulnerability and audience-driven criteria such as aesthetic preferences. Thus we focused our study on the most commonly kept and bred animal class, the mammals, and we asked which factors affect various aspects of the mammalian collection of zoos. We analyzed the presence/absence, population size, and frequency per species of each of the 123 mammalian families kept in the worldwide zoo collection. Our aim was to explain these data using the human-perceived attractiveness of mammalian families, their body weight, relative brain size and species richness of the family. In agreement with various previous studies, we found that the body size and the attractiveness of mammals significantly affect all studied components of the mammalian collection of zoos. There is a higher probability of the large and attractive families to be kept. Once kept, these animals are presented in larger numbers in more zoos. On the contrary, the relative mean brain size only affects the primary selection whether to keep the family or not. It does not affect the zoo population size or the number of zoos that keep the family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Frynta
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic.
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Prokop P, Fančovičová J. Does colour matter? The influence of animal warning coloration on human emotions and willingness to protect them. Anim Conserv 2013. [DOI: 10.1111/acv.12014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - J. Fančovičová
- Department of Biology; Faculty of Education; Trnava University; Trnava; Slovakia
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Abstract
National and international reports developed for the International Year of Biodiversity concluded that we have failed to meet the 2010 biodiversity target. There is an urgent need to analyze current policies for biodiversity conservation. We examined the anthropomorphic factors underlying the threatened species listings (both red lists and legal lists) and funding allocation for the conservation of vertebrates in Spain at different organizational levels, from the global to subnational level. Our results reveal a strong effect of anthropomorphic factors on conservation policies, mainly legal listings and species priority setting at national scale. Specifically, we found that those vertebrates that are phylogenetically close to humans or physically similar to human neonates tend to receive more conservation attention. Based on results, we suggest recommendations to improve conservation policies in Spain.
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50
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Smith RJ, Veríssimo D, Isaac NJ, Jones KE. Identifying Cinderella species: uncovering mammals with conservation flagship appeal. Conserv Lett 2012. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-263x.2012.00229.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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