Research.
Current Projects
Toronto Zoo: Supporting Conservation
The purpose of this Mitacs funded research is to use an evidence-based approach to further the Toronto Zoo’s social science and education programs, in order to support in situ conservation and biodiversity in relation to Canadian goals and the Aichi Targets. Using a collaborative approach this research will result in the co-production of knowledge, where the researcher and the partner organization collaborate in all stages of the research project. Current research suggests that large and exotic charismatic megafauna (such as pandas) tend to facilitate better emotional connections with visitors as well as support for in situ conservation (Skibins et al., 2013). However, research also demonstrates that connections to wildlife in general help to support in situ conservation and less is known about specifically what types of wildlife are most effective in fostering connections with visitors (Carr, 2016a; Carr, 2016b). This project will help to inform best practices for ex situ conservation organizations to determine if (a) a direct connection to situ conservation is required to foster learning and support for conservation, and (b) if there is a difference between support for a species-specific approach versus a biodiversity-focused approach. This project will also develop on-site and post-visit engagement materials designed to help the Toronto Zoo’s visitors adopt behaviours that support in situ conservation and work towards achieving Aichi Target 1.
