Flagship species in applied nature conservation

Affinity and antipathy towards indigenous animal species among children and adolescents

At a glance

Project leader : Jürg Schlegel
Project team : Prof. Dr. Reto Rupf
Project status : completed
Funding partner : Internal
Contact person : Jürg Schlegel

Description

Skilful public relations work involving appropriate flagship species can increase the acceptance of nature conservation projects. Our studies examine the attitude of children and adolescents towards indigenous fauna. In addition to the classic flagship groups (e. g. attractive birds and colourful butterflies) we include many other animal species in the research project, above all different insects groups. In standardized surveys, the reasons for species-specific affinity or antipathy are investigated and an attempt is made to establish references to gender, level of education, location (city/countryside) and personal closeness to nature. Our studies have been published in several scientific journals (see list of publications).

Further information

Publications

Breuer, Gabriele; Schlegel, Jürg; Rupf, Reto,

2015.

Selecting insects as flagship species for Beverin nature park in Switzerland : a survey of local school children on their attitudes towards butterflies and other insects.

eco.mont.

7(1), pp. 5-16.

Available from: https://doi.org/10.1553/eco.mont-7-1s5

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