Birdwatching in American Society

Based on the results of a national study of American attitudes, knowledge and behaviors toward animals, the extent of participation in birdwatching is described. Additionally, the demographic characteristics as well as animal‐related knowledge and attitudes of birdwatchers are detailed. The motivation for participation in birdwatching is considered, and the varying motives of casual versus committed birdwatchers contrasted. Finally, the significance of this activity for the emergence of nongame‐related wildlife management programs in the United States is discussed. The data for this study were derived from personal interviews with 2455 randomly selected Americans in the forty‐eight contiguous states and Alaska.