In January, the Tourism and Environment Forum launched a Review of Wildlife Tourism in Scotland. The results of the Review of Wildlife Tourism launched today maps Scotland’s wildlife tourism sector; providing a snapshot of its growth whilst formulating the views and aspirations of nearly 300 wildlife tourism businesses.
The Review demonstrates:
- Nearly 3000 people are now employed within wildlife tourism businesses this represents an increase of 50% since 1997. Wildlife tourism brings jobs to rural areas and island communities, across all of Scotland, boosting fragile local economies and encouraging visitors to spend more time in and return to rural areas.
- The number of ‘dedicated’ wildlife tourism businesses has increased by 37% since 1997 (businesses include wildlife guides, boat operators, providers of wildlife holidays and wildlife centres).
- The number of boat operators taking visitors to view wildlife has increased by 79%, whilst the number of wildlife guides has risen by 29% in 1997.
- Visitors taking boat trips increased by 62% on 1997 totals and visitors using the services of wildlife guides increased by 70% on 1997 totals.
- 55% of facilities and sites provide specific identification tools to help visitors view wildlife i.e hides, remote viewing points and identification assistance.
- All
areas of Scotland have wildlife tourist businesses / facilities or sites – with Argyll and the Islands, Skye and Lochalsh and Ross and Cromarty having the greatest numbers. All areas of Scotland benefit from employment in this sector.
It is hoped that this research, together with input from the It's Wild! conference in Aviemore and the wildlife tourism operators meetings delegates will result in a more focused approach to tourism and the natural environment at a national and local level.
The report is downloadable from the Publications page, click here.
