1. Can a Conservation Workshop Improve Knowledge, Perception, and Behavior of Children Toward Felids in Mexico?
- Author
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Zarco-González, Martha M., Castillo-Huitrón, Nathalia M., Monroy-Vilchis, Octavio, Marchini, Silvio, and Valencia Mejía, Diego
- Subjects
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RURAL children , *CHILD behavior , *SCHOOL children , *ANIMAL ecology , *ZONING - Abstract
Analysis of people’s perceptions toward wildlife is fundamental in conservation planning. Also fundamental is dissemination of information about wildlife ecology. In Mexico, conservation of carnivores, who frequently come into conflict with human communities, is of utmost importance. We designed a workshop about the ecological aspects of pumas and jaguars; 232 children in elementary schools in rural, semiurban, and urban zones of Central Mexico participated. We analyzed the children’s knowledge of, perceptions of, and behavior in relation to pumas and jaguars before and after the workshop. We compared the three aspects by separating the data by grade and zone and found positive changes after the workshop. Knowledge was greater in the rural zone, but pro-conservation behavior was higher in the urban zone. Sixth-grade children displayed pro-conservation behavior and had more knowledge and more positive perceptions. We discuss the importance of involving children in conservation projects and disseminating information about large carnivores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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