Wildlife Tourism : a Geograhical

Abstract

Wildlife tourism, which is either wildlife-dependent or wildlife-independent, is increasingly becoming a popular recreational pursuit. Wildlife tourism can also be categorized as either consumptive or non-consumptive depending on the recreational motives of visitors and the level of visitor-wildlife interactions. The impacts of wildlife tourism and measures to minimize visitors impact on wild species and their habitats are discussed from a geographical perspective. Managing tourism impacts involves an understanding of the spatial requirements of wild species and the limits that tourists have to impose on themselves in their pursuit for an enjoyable wildlife encounter. Australian policies and international commitments pertinent to wildlife tourism are presented. Major issues and challenges relative to ecologically sustainable practice in wildlife tourism and wildlife