Bird Diversity, Birdwatching Tourism and Conservation in Peru: A Geographic Analysis

Liisa Puhakka,Ilari E Sääksjärvi,Matti Salo,Matt Hayward

doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0026786

Abstract

In the face of the continuing global biodiversity loss, it is important not only to assess the need for conservation, through e.g. gap analyses, but also to seek practical solutions for protecting biodiversity. Environmentally and socially sustainable tourism can be one such solution. We present a method to spatially link data on conservation needs and tourism-based economic opportunities, using bird-related tourism in Peru as an example. Our analysis highlighted areas in Peru where potential for such projects could be particularly high. Several areas within the central and northern Andean regions, as well as within the lowland Amazonian regions of Madre de Dios and Loreto emerge as promising for this type of activity. Mechanisms to implement conservation in these areas include e.g. conservation and ecotourism concessions, private conservation areas, and conservation easements. Some of these mechanisms also offer opportunities for local communities seeking to secure their traditional land ownership and use rights. (Spanish language abstract, S1).

Highlights

The target set in 2002 by the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity to achieve a significant reduction in the rate of biodiversity loss by the year 2010 has not been met [1]
Where is further conservation needed? The largest conservation areas in Peru are found in the lowland
Several of the largest conservation areas within these regions are designated as IBAs, such as the Alto Purus and Manu National Parks in Madre de Dios, Ucayali and Cusco, and the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve in Loreto

Summary

Introduction

The target set in 2002 by the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity to achieve a significant reduction in the rate of biodiversity loss by the year 2010 has not been met [1]. Protected area networks have grown substantially during the last decades they are still incomplete worldwide [2] and failed to halt the biodiversity crisis [3]. Establishing new protected areas through traditional government-led procedures is not the only feasible means of conservation in many places where biodiversity is threatened, and sometimes it is not applicable at all. In addition to gap analyses identifying areas or species in need of further conservation, it is important to look for other, perhaps more practical solutions for protecting biodiversity through creating local conservation initiatives. One such approach is to promote conservation through environmentally responsible and socially sensitive tourism. While not a universal curefor-all, sustainable forms of tourism can provide alternative livelihoods and incentives for communities to protect valuable habitats in key localities, given the right circumstances and proper planning [5]

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion