The portrayal of human-wildlife interactions in the print media

摘要: “In the end Steve Irwin got too close” (Sydney Morning Herald 5/9/06). Irwin’s untimely death generated an instantaneous and massive response by media. The cause of his - a stingray barb highlights vital part topic how close we should be to wildlife for our own safety, welfare wildlife. As working zoologists, asked: “To what extent does media’s portrayal human-wildlife interaction define or obscure contentious issues in management?” We examined 287 newspaper articles over one year (7/10/05 9/10/06). journalism was, large, informative, readable entertaining. usual pattern reporting was catchy headline, short story and/or sensational photo. There is paradox relationship with want both distant. Media coverage reflects this, presenting as either dangerous loveable, depending on reporter’s ‘angle’. Safeguarding future will need much more than headline pun engaging photo charismatic creature. In its presentation wildlife, media plays powerful role that further conservation leave it neglected element heritage. From analysis, argue scientists can profitably engaged, but ultimately fauna depend well-supported diverse teams managers operate sound ecological principles, not precepts.