Birdwatchers' specialisation characteristics and national park tourism planning

Abstract

Decline in birding visitation to Point Pelee National Park stimulated investigation of recreation specialisation to better prepare programmes for birdwatchers. This research identified characteristics of birdwatchers' at three specialisation levels and advised park managers in the design and management of birding programmes. Research found that the intermediate and expert birders were similar to each other, and were different from the beginners. The beginners were a distinct group, from the more experienced groups, as they were more likely to be in their first year of bird watching, stayed the least number of nights in the local area, had the lowest expenditures, participated more in activities outside the national park, used more sources of information, and participated more in non-birding activities during their trip to the national park. The research found that this beginner group required programmes aimed at an introduction to the park, the regional area, birding, and a wide range of activities and sites. The more experienced birders required specialised programmes on bird identification, bird biology, and bird watching. The research concluded that bird watching management should be an integrated, regional activity, involving many public and private organisations, many of which occur outside the national park.

Keywords:

• national park
• bird watching
• self-classification
• specialisation
• visitor management
• wildlife tourism

Acknowledgements

This research was conducted with the assistance of staff members of Parks Canada, at Point Pelee National Park and the Ontario Service Center, Tanya Deeks, Sylvie Landry, Erika Taves, and Susan Wallwork.