Introduction

Within the past few decades, a new form of non-consumptive interaction with the natural world,
known as ecotourism, has rapidly developed to become a multi-billion dollar industry and a critical
funding source for conservation (Aylward, Allen, Echeverr
ıa, & Tosi, 1996; Davenport & Davenport,
2006; Filion, Foley, & Jacquemot, 1994). Although often touted as an exemplary form of sustainable
development in the developing world (Aylward et al., 1996; Butcher, 2006; Tisdell & Wilson, 2002),
ecotourism may also cause degradation and alteration of fragile ecosystems and sensitive fauna
(Boo, 1990; Kr€uger, 2005; M€ullner, Eduard Linsenmair, & Wikelski, 2004). If the potential social, economic,
and environmental impacts of ecotourism are not considered and actively managed, ecotourism
industries may inadvertently destroy the natural resources they depend on (Doiron &
Weissenberger, 2014; Moore & Carter, 1993). If ecotourism is to be sustainable, impacts of tourism
activities on wildlife must be assessed and managed.