Identifying management strategies for the development of wildlife-based ecotourism: A study case of Sulawesi bear cuscus (Ailurops ursinus) inhabited the Educational Forest of Hasanuddin University, Maros

Abstract

The educational forest of Hasanuddin University is intended to be developed as ecotourism spot with various physical and biological tourism attractions including bear cuscus (Ailurops ursinus). However, the concrete management strategies required have not been fully explored and examined. This research aimed to identify and formulate management strategies of wildlife-based tourism for bear cuscus in the area by examining bio-ecological of the species and analyzing community’s perceptions and attitudes towards bear cuscus and its conservation in the area. Data on the biology and ecology of A. ursinus and its habitat were gained from literatures while the perceptions were obtained directly from questionnaire distribution to all relevant stakeholders as respondents. SWOT analysis was used and further analyzed by using AHP (Analysis Hierarchy Process) to determine quadrants and priority levels. There were 11 strengths and 4 weaknesses found as internal factors and 5 opportunities and 3 threats for the external. The IFAS matrix score were 1.82 with the weighted total value of 3.29 and the weakness’ score of 1.47. For the EFAS matrix, the total opportunities score was 2.95 and the total threats score of 1.00. The high priority strategy to be implemented in the context of ecotourism management was located in Quadrant I which indicates that the opportunity for the bear cuscus' ecotourism is favorable.