Estimating demand for wildlife viewing in zoological parks: An exhibit‐specific, time allocation approach

Abstract

Research concerning wildlife viewing in zoological parks provides important information on which to base exhibit and zoo design decisions. Assessment of visitor behavior—in particular visitors’ demands for viewing specific exhibits—is critical for evaluating the success of current exhibits, improving existing exhibits, and designing future zoological facilities. This paper estimates the impact of exhibit and zoo design, environmental and demographic characteristics on time spent viewing specific species in zoological parks. Unlike traditional research concerning nonconsumptive wildlife recreation, this analysis uses viewing time as a means to estimate demand for wildlife viewing. Model results demonstrate that variables representing exhibit design, zoo design, and exogenous environmental conditions have significant impacts on wildlife viewing time.

Keywords:

• nonconsumptive use
• zoological parks
• time allocation
• wildlife recreation