The role of interpretation in wildlife tourism

Abstract

[Extract] Interpretation aims to stimulate interest, promote learning, guide visitors in appropriate behaviour for sustainable tourism and encourage enjoyment and satisfaction. This chapter discusses the role of interpretation in sustainable wildlife tourism. For the purpose of this chapter the term wildlife tourism will be restricted to activities, attractions and tours that involve non-consumptive wildlife viewing or interaction opportunities. There is very little information available on the role of interpretation in consumptive wildlife activities such as hunting or fishing. A review of interpretive methods is provided and international examples are used to illustrate the potential roles of interpretation in wildlife tourism settings. Some issues specific to the practice of interpreting wildlife are discussed. A review of evaluation research in the area of wildlife interpretation will also demonstrate that little specific research is available and that there has been virtually no theoretical discussion of how to design effective wildlife interpretation. The authors have been involved in a long running program of interpretation evaluation and wildlife tourism research. This chapter presents a conceptual model based on both this research and theories from educational and social psychology. This mindfulness model is presented to assist readers' understanding of how to design interpretation that attracts attention and fosters learning and enjoyment.