Species traits explain public perceptions of human–bird interactions

• DOI: 10.1002/eap.2676
• Publication Date: 2022-05-18T06:04:42Z
• Authors: Riley Andrade; Kelli L. Larson; Janet Franklin; Susannah B. Lerman; Heather L. Bateman; Paige S. Warren
• Keywords: Urban ecology; Hummingbird; Trait

The impacts of urbanization on bird biodiversity depend human-environment interactions that drive land management. Although a commonly studied group, less attention has been given to public perceptions birds close home, which can capture people's direct, everyday experiences with urban biodiversity. Here, we used ecological and social survey data collected in the metropolitan region Phoenix, Arizona, USA, determine how species traits are related local communities. We trait-based approach classify by attributes may influence human-bird interactions, including color, size, foraging strata, diet, song, cultural niche space based popularity geographic specificity. Our classification scheme using hierarchical clustering identified four trait categories, labeled as Metropolitan (gray, loud, seedeaters low ground), Familiar (yellow/brown generalist present suburban areas), Distinctive (species distinguishing appearance song), Hummingbird (hummingbird species, small colorful). Strongly held beliefs about positive or negative were also more consistent than ambivalent ones. belief colorful unique regional desert environment was particularly important fortifying perceptions. People largely perceived hummingbird distinctive positively. Similarly, urban-dwelling from group perceptions, probably due human-wildlife conflict. Differences arose across sociodemographics (including income, age, education, Hispanic/Latinx identity), but explained relatively amount variation compared neighborhood. results highlight aesthetics, especially color well diet Increasing direct iconic tied potential improve strengthen support for broader conservation initiatives beyond ecosystems.