Fostering Conservation Through Shark Tourism: Attitudes, Behaviors, and Impact
Location
HCAS Guy Harvey Oceanographic Center, Nova Southeastern University
Start
2-14-2025 2:30 PM
End
2-14-2025 2:45 PM
Type of Presentation
Oral Presentation
Abstract
Shark wildlife tourism has the potential to shape pro-environmental attitudes and identities, fostering meaningful conservation behaviors. Understanding the long-term effects of participating in shark tourism provides valuable insights into its effectiveness as a conservation tool. To evaluate these impacts, participants were surveyed at three intervals: before the tour, immediately afterward, and one month later. The study focused on a popular shark tourism hotspot in Jupiter, Florida, where participants snorkeled with species such as lemon sharks (Negaprion brevirostris) and bull sharks (Carcharhinus leucas) for one to two hours. The surveys assessed participants’ connection to nature, particularly sharks, and their engagement in pro-environmental behaviors. Results were compared with two other groups: individuals who watched a shark documentary and those who did not engage in either activity. Preliminary findings reveal that shark tourism participants develop a stronger connection to nature and are more inspired to advocate for shark conservation than other groups. Participants in shark tourism exhibited less specialization and bias toward nature compared to more intense or exclusive shark tourism operations, likely due to the activity's accessibility and broader appeal. These findings emphasize the significant role of tourism in shaping conservation attitudes and behaviors. They underscore the importance of designing shark tourism experiences that are engaging, educational, and emotionally impactful to maximize their conservation potential.
Fostering Conservation Through Shark Tourism: Attitudes, Behaviors, and Impact
HCAS Guy Harvey Oceanographic Center, Nova Southeastern University
Shark wildlife tourism has the potential to shape pro-environmental attitudes and identities, fostering meaningful conservation behaviors. Understanding the long-term effects of participating in shark tourism provides valuable insights into its effectiveness as a conservation tool. To evaluate these impacts, participants were surveyed at three intervals: before the tour, immediately afterward, and one month later. The study focused on a popular shark tourism hotspot in Jupiter, Florida, where participants snorkeled with species such as lemon sharks (Negaprion brevirostris) and bull sharks (Carcharhinus leucas) for one to two hours. The surveys assessed participants’ connection to nature, particularly sharks, and their engagement in pro-environmental behaviors. Results were compared with two other groups: individuals who watched a shark documentary and those who did not engage in either activity. Preliminary findings reveal that shark tourism participants develop a stronger connection to nature and are more inspired to advocate for shark conservation than other groups. Participants in shark tourism exhibited less specialization and bias toward nature compared to more intense or exclusive shark tourism operations, likely due to the activity's accessibility and broader appeal. These findings emphasize the significant role of tourism in shaping conservation attitudes and behaviors. They underscore the importance of designing shark tourism experiences that are engaging, educational, and emotionally impactful to maximize their conservation potential.