Ecotourism

Ecotourism uses wildlife and natural landscapes to attract visitors while conserving the environment and benefiting local communities. Entrance fees and guided tours can fund wardens, habitat management and research. Local people can earn money as guides or through accommodation, cafés and shops, giving them an economic reason to protect wildlife.

Ecotourism can help by funding protection and employing local guides and other staff. In Scotland, managed viewing of ospreys can support nest protection and nearby businesses. However, too many visitors can disturb breeding animals, damage vegetation and create waste.