ABSTRACT

Deer have a prominent public and political profile in Scotland because of their iconic status, environmental and socio-economic impacts, and the long-running controversies surrounding their management. However, few studies have examined public perceptions of deer management. This article investigates whether rural and urban place of residence and other demographic factors are significant influences on public perceptions of deer management. A survey (n = 184) in rural and urban locations in Scotland explored public perceptions of deer management in contrasting localities. Place of residence, demographic information and self-reported knowledge levels were analysed to examine their impact on perceptions. Respondents generally agreed that deer management is necessary, with fencing and culling the first and second most preferred management options. Rural or urban place of residence had a limited influence on opinions of deer management, with engagement in land-based employment playing a more important role. Self-reported understanding of deer management was the most important factor in shaping opinions; those with greater knowledge were more likely to support deer culling. The findings suggest that improved public education concerning the need for deer management would be beneficial, increasing public understanding of management practices.

摘要

由于鹿的标志性地位、环境和社会经济影响以及围绕其管理的长期争议，鹿在苏格兰具有突出的公众和政治形象。然而，很少有研究调查公众对鹿管理的看法。本文调查农村和城市居住地和其他人口因素是否对公众对鹿的管理看法有显着影响。一项调查 ( n = 184）在苏格兰的农村和城市地区探索了公众对不同地区鹿管理的看法。分析了居住地、人口统计信息和自我报告的知识水平，以检查它们对认知的影响。受访者普遍同意鹿管理是必要的，围栏和扑杀是首选的管理选项。农村或城市居住地对养鹿意见的影响有限，从事陆上就业的作用更大。自我报告对鹿管理的理解是形成意见的最重要因素；那些知识渊博的人更有可能支持扑杀鹿。调查结果表明，改善有关鹿管理必要性的公共教育将是有益的，