Journal Article

Exploring Public Perception of Non-native Species from a Visions of Nature Perspective

Van den Born, Riyan J. G., Lenders, H. J. Rob, Verbrugge, Laura N. H.

2013

Overview

Not much is known about lay public perceptions of non-native species and their underlying values. Public awareness and engagement, however, are important aspects in invasive species management. In this study, we examined the relations between the lay public’s visions of nature, their knowledge about non-native species, and their perceptions of non-native species and invasive species management with a survey administered in the Netherlands. Within this framework, we identified three measures for perception of non-native species: perceived risk, control and engagement. In general, respondents scored moderate values for perceived risk and personal engagement. However, in case of potential ecological or human health risks, control measures were supported. Respondents’ images of the human–nature relationship proved to be relevant in engagement in problems caused by invasive species and in recognizing the need for control, while images of nature appeared to be most important in perceiving risks to the environment. We also found that eradication of non-native species was predominantly opposed for species with a high cuddliness factor such as mammals and bird species. We conclude that lay public perceptions of non-native species have to be put in a wider context of visions of nature, and we discuss the implications for public support for invasive species management.

• Publisher: Springer US,Springer,Springer Nature B.V
• Subject: Animal, plant and microbial ecology / Applied ecology / Aquatic Pollution / Atmospheric Protection/Air Quality Control/Air Pollution / Attitude / Biodiversity / Biological and medical sciences / birds / Conservation of Natural Resources / Conservation of Natural Resources - methods / Conservation of Natural Resources - statistics & numerical data / Conservation, protection and management of environment and wildlife / control methods / Earth and Environmental Science / Ecological risk assessment / Ecology / Ecosystem / Environment / Environment management / Environmental Management / Forestry Management / Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology / General aspects / Health risks / human health / Human-environment relationship / Humans / Indigenous species / Introduced species / Introduced Species - statistics & numerical data / Invasive species / Knowledge / Mammals / Management / methods / Native species / Natural environment / Natural resource management / Nature / Nature Conservation / Netherlands / Nonnative species / Parks, reserves, wildlife conservation. Endangered species: population survey and restocking / Perception / Perceptions / Public awareness / Public Opinion / Risk perception / statistics & numerical data / surveys / Surveys and Questionnaires / Urban Population / Vision / Waste Water Technology / Water Management / Water Pollution Control