Satisfaction levels of birdwatchers: An observation on the consumptive—nonconsumptive continuum1

Abstract

Visitors using an auto tour route at a National Wildlife Refuge were found to report a high degree of satisfaction with their visit using a standard satisfaction scale that has been applied to other recreationists. Reported satisfaction levels were similar to other nonconsumptive recreation activities and considerably higher than consumptive activities (hunting or fishing). Degree of skill at bird identification was related to reported satisfaction, with more knowledgeable birders reporting significantly lower satisfaction levels than less knowledgeable birders. Differences may be related to the goal specificity of advanced birders which renders this activity more similar to a consumptive recreation, or to variation in expectations and preferences among different levels of birders.