Lesson 3

Module Two: The Savanna Biome Module Two begins our examinations of different biomes and some of the ecotourism opportunities and issues associated with them. In this module we consider the Savanna region of the world, the large grassland plains with small pockets of trees found on most continents.In Lesson Three we consider the theme of wildlife viewing and compare between the comprehensive and minimalist ecotourist. Wildlife viewing is a strong foundation of ecotourism but when it is the sole focus of a tourist activity it may ignore other aspects of the environment. Our focus will be on the African Savanna, an area that is experiencing considerable pressure from habitat loss. These areas are the site of large populations of African megafauna or the large mammals that graze and prey on these plains.Lesson Four considers the management of parks and protected areas. Traditionally, many ecotourism destinations are public areas that offer wildlife and vegetation some protection from human activities. We will consider the various types of parks and protected areas and the role they play in both conservation and tourism. In our case study of the Savanna, you will examine the issues of multi-use and the demands on space and wildlife from farming, hunting and ecotourism. |
Lesson 3.0: Wildlife Viewing
Lesson Three Objectives * To investigate the topic of wildlife viewing and megafauna and consider its role in ecotourism * To discuss the positive and negative aspects of wildlife watching * To debate the roles of wildlife watching and hunting * To introduce the biomevsavanna and consider issues regarding wildlife in this region |
Lesson Three Text Readings * Chapter 3 pp 60-78; Chapter 7 pp 185-192; Chapter 10 pp 297-299 * most of Chapter 3 is considered in more detail in Lesson Four |
Lesson Three Video * Video South African Safari (up to 50 mins) |
Lesson Three Outline 3.1 | Wildlife Viewing |
3.2 Megafauna: description, African