Wings of Change: Motivations, Challenges, and Environmental Concerns Among Birdwatchers

Abstract

Birdwatching contributes to biodiversity conservation through public engagement and ecological data collection. Although birdwatching is becoming increasingly popular in developing countries like Nepal, research on birdwatching practices, motivations, challenges and bird-related environmental concerns remains limited. We surveyed 135 birdwatchers across Nepal and found that about one-third were novices and most preferred birdwatching in small groups, especially in forests and wetlands. Birdwatching specialization increased with age and was higher among males and tourism-involved participants. Birdwatching showed potential to enhance local tourism. Over 60% preferred targeting specific bird species, and nearly half liked to do birdwatching even in poor weather. Data-sharing practices varied: 46% kept records private, while only 25% used platforms such as eBird. Key motivations were conservation, enjoyment, and achievement, while equipment costs and group disturbances were key challenges and most agreed that birds and habitats are declining. Overall, birdwatching in Nepal would benefit from greater public participation and improved data-sharing.

Keywords

bird tourism / Chitwan National Park / eBird / farmland / wetland

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2026 The Author(s). Wildlife Letters published by Northeast Forestry University and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.