Public support for endangered species recovery: An exploratory study of the Kirtland's Warbler

Abstract

This study examines public awareness, attitudes, and support for recovery of the endangered Kirtland's Warbler (KW). This bird species breeds only in Michigan in a fairly well‐defined area of jack pines. The recovery program focuses on expansion of habitat and control of cowbirds, which parasitize nests. Despite a 40‐year effort, the KW did not begin to recover until the 1990s when sufficient habitat finally became available. Local public sentiment has been divided, however, on prescribed burning to regenerate jack pines, ever since a fire burned out of control in 1980. To determine whether residents now support the KW and its recovery program, a mail survey of 290 residents near the breeding grounds was conducted. The results show that awareness and knowledge of the plight of the KW is high, especially among men and older residents. Broad support for the KW and endangered species recovery was found. While no significant correlates were observed with support for the KW recovery program, younger residents were found to be more supportive of the Endangered Species Act. Management implications are discussed.

Keywords:

• cowbirds
• Endangered Species Act
• jack pine
• Kirtland's Warbler
• public support