Analysis of Various Opinions on Wildlife Management: Different Feelings of Residents toward Focal Animals

Abstract

We undertook a questionnaire-based survey in Hyogo prefecture Residents were asked about their knowledge and opinion of the management of sika deer and Japanese black bear. We classified the respondents into three groups according to their personal feelings toward to these animals : 'be around habitats these animals (Group 1)' 'not be around their habitats but know they inhabit Hyogo prefecture (Group 2)' ,and 'not know they inhabit Hyogo prefecture (Group 3)' .The three groups showed differences in opinions ;respondents in Group 1 tended to demand control, but the other two groups tended to demand preservation. However, most respondents did not recognize the issue of preservation and control as an antinomy. Most respondents recognized tax as the main source of preservation and control of the animals, but opinions on the share of expenses by those adversely affected and by preservationists differed among the groups. Many respondents did not fully recognize the governmental programs for management, but considered that decisions should be taken by governments. Based on these results, we discuss the challenges faced in regard to wildlif emanagement.