Birder Specialization Differences in Conservation Involvement, Demographics, and Motivations

Abstract

Birders represent a significant component of wildlife users, but birders are not a homogeneous group. This study develops a recreation specialization framework for birders in a non-North American setting, and examines how conservation involvement, demographics, and motivations vary among specialization levels. Using questionnaire data from birders in Doi Inthanon National Park, Thailand, three specialization levels--novice, advanced-active, and advanced-experienced - are described. Specialization level was positively, but weakly, related to conservation involvement. Age, income, and percentage male rose with specialization level. Both advanced birder types were less interested in nonbirding activities than novice birders. Advanced-experienced birders were most interested in birding activities. Management and marketing implications are discussed.