Interest in hunting as a hobby among residents in urban and surrounding areas

Abstract

I examined the levels of interest in hunting as a hobby (LIHs) by questionnaire among non-hunters in an urban area and its surrounds (n = 1198). LIH was significantly higher among males (P < 0.01), those who had family or acquaintances who were hunters (P < 0.05), and those who were aware of the damage that could be caused by wildlife (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in LIH between farmers and non-farmers, or between urban/urban fringe and rural residents. Respondents were asked about the positive and negative aspects of hunting as a hobby. As positive aspects of hunting, respondents with high LIHs selected “Love of nature” the most, followed by “Reduce damage to agriculture, forestry, and humans” and “Interest in guns,” then “Interest in meat and furs.” As negative aspects, respondents with low LIHs selected “Feelings of resistance toward owning a gun” and “Feelings of resistance toward hunting animals” six times more often than those with high LIHs. In the recruitment of hunters from urban and surrounding areas, it is appropriate to fully convey the enjoyment and fun of outdoor activities in nature and hunting, and especially the appeal of game meat. In addition, public education is needed to promote a wide understanding of wildlife management and the need for wildlife population control.