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Human–Wildlife Interaction Guidelines in Western Australia
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Human–Wildlife Interaction Guidelines in Western Australia

M. Hughes and J. Carlsen
Journal of Ecotourism, Vol.7(2-3), pp.147-159
2008
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/14724040802140519
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Abstract

Human interactions with wildlife occur across a wide variety of contexts and often form the central component of nature based tourism operations. There is the potential for significant impacts on both humans and wildlife as a result of these interactive experiences. Protected area managers require guidelines in order to effectively manage these interactions. The complexity of human-wildlife interactions creates challenges in terms of defining adequate guidelines to minimise risk. This paper uses a review of the Western Australian Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) human–wildlife interaction guidelines to highlight key issues influencing the clarity and application of human–wildlife interaction guidelines. It was found that effectively managing interactions between humans and wildlife depend on: the specific context, location and the type of interaction; the number of people and wildlife individuals involve, positive relationships between operators and wildlife managers among other issues. This presents a challenge in formulating consistent guidelines for large geographical areas with many types of wildlife interaction. A series of recommendations are made in relation to approaching this issue.

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