Anazlying Media Coverage To Gauge Public Opinions Toward Conservation Efforts
Saturday, October 22, 2011 - 12:10
in Biology & Nature
Public support is a critical element of any conservation plan, but particularly in the case of large carnivores, which are often viewed as a threat to humans, livestock, economic security, and the ability to safely use natural habitats. Because carnivores generally live in fairly low densities, most people do not encounter these animals in person. Thus, many attitudes are shaped less by first-hand experience than by media portrayal of the species in question. As a result, managers have increasingly urged that conservation plans include public outreach efforts and the use of mass media in order to "sell" the importance of carnivore protection. read more