Wildlife and the Illinois public: a benchmark study of attitudes and perceptions

摘要: Natural resource management agencies are increasingly challenged to involve the public in issues pertaining wildlife management. However, there has been little systematic attempt describe perceptions, knowledge, and attitudes of gen- eral regarding using managing wildlife. We conducted a benchmark study during June-July, 1996, selected attitudes, knowledge Illinois residents relative related compared these factors for resi- dents northeast metropolitan region (metro) rest (nonmetro). considered findings context emerging perceptions A high percentage believed that wild animals add value their lives conservation education should be priority. There was extensive participation non-consumptive forms recreation minimal involvement hunting trapping. In fact, minority supported hunt- ing sport alone, only nominal majority provide eco- nomic development, food, or prevent overabundance species. Three interrelated (place residence, generation, gender) part portray differences wildlife-related residents. Place residence suggests populations northeastern those smaller cities more rural regions (non- metro). Compared nonmetro, metro have fewer direct encounters with wildlife, including recreation, animal prob- lems such as collisions, crop damage, etc. The population is less supportive hunting-related revenues benefit conservation, likely attribute imperiled species overexploitation than habitat destruction, similar way they pets people. gener- ational factor indicates younger portion population, eration influence, also Further, prone believe habitats support unlimited numbers (i.e., not limited). gender females from both tend endan- gered rather habitat. Similar urbanites general, were satisfied status