Evaluating the relative effectiveness of alternative conservation interventions in influencing stated behavioural intentions: the saiga antelope in Kalmykia (Russia)

摘要: Evaluating the relative effectiveness of different conservation interventions is difficult and rarely undertaken. Conservation critically endangered saiga antelope in Republic Kalmykia (Russia) provides a unique experimental set-up that was used to disentangle this issue. This study uses amount pledged for conservation, adapted from contingent valuation methods, as measure behavioural intention contribute evaluate effectiveness. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with 250 individuals eight villages exposed traditional 'fences-and-fines' livelihoods enhancement (social engagement) or low-level media coverage. The intervention employed had direct effect on conservation. Social engagement programmes decreased protest-bidding behaviour but resulted low amounts Those coverage greatest average, whilst those both high level protest bidding pledges who something. primary reason given bids government international community should pay may be relic Soviet era, explain under social engagement. Ecological knowledge strongly affected pledged. results influenced by cultural demographic factors, including residence time, exposure saigas, age, wealth regarding unusual disentangling other proposes using practical tool evaluating projects aimed at increasing awareness promoting positive intentions towards It support awareness-raising successful intervention.