Protection of the Ethiopian Wolf: What are tourists willing to pay for?

摘要: Ethiopian wolf, Canis simensis, is among the most threatened carnivore species in Africa. Habitat loss and disease transmission threaten its survival. Our understanding of wolf’s contributions to ecosystem services economic benefits preservation limited because there has been insufficient research on valuation. This study uses choice experiments investigate preferences willingness pay (WTP) for conservation programs tourists travelling Bale Mountains National Park, one major habitats wolf. Program attributes valued include size protected area, wolf population, tourist access habitat recreational facilities. A random parameter logit model fitted data account heterogeneity preferences. The results show that WTP up Birr 130.81 (US$ 5.82)/day/trip enhancement population from 200 250 wolves, but very little beyond level. visitors are willing increase area ease habitat. Visitors significantly influenced by prior visitor experience other areas Ethiopia interest viewing unique park. findings suggest non-use values must be taken into decisions nature magnitude more appropriate programs.