By Anna Gurney
N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission
Besides the sun, sand and ocean waves, a visit to the N.C. coast offers the opportunity to see interesting and unique coastal birds and sea turtles (depending on the time of year of course). But impacts from coastal development, human population growth and climate change can take a toll on their habitats.
Around three million people in North Carolina identify as “wildlife viewers.” About three-quarters of them take trips to experience our state’s wide array of animal species. Despite the popularity of these wildlife experiences, limited data exists on their economic contributions to coastal communities and the state economy.
As part of N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission’s mission to “conserve North Carolina’s wildlife resources and their habitats,” a study is underway to learn the economic contribution of coastal wildlife viewing. The agency is requesting visitors complete a five-minute survey about their experience viewing birds and sea turtles on their visit to the southern coast.
“We want to determine economic contributions from visiting bird watchers, folks who visit our coast during sea turtle nesting season, and other wildlife enthusiasts,” said NCWRC Social Scientist Elizabeth Pratt.
The data will be used in a study that will help the agency develop better wildlife conservation policies on the coast.
“Results could shed light on the importance of wildlife-related tourism to coastal communities and the need to continue to conserve these species,” said Pratt.
A short survey is available online through late fall. In addition, NCWRC has posted signage and placed postcards with QR codes at various wildlife viewing locations and visitor centers.
“Whether visiting a waterbird colony, witnessing a sea turtle nest excavation, or seeing less common birds that only visit the state during migration, we know that the public values the wildlife viewing experiences available along the coast, said Eastern Wildlife Diversity Supervisor Hope Sutton. “This study will help us understand the importance of wildlife viewing and ensure future visitors continue to benefit from our wildlife conservation efforts.”
Other steps in the project include resident feedback and collaboration with partners to gain a better understanding of coastal wildlife issues to act as a guide for future protection initiatives.
Learn more about NCWRC’s Habitat Conservation Program
