Elephants and Whales

This text examines issues surrounding the management and conservation of a particular category of animal, namely the "mediagenic megafauna", or the largest of the land and sea mammals. The value accorded to different biotic resources varies significantly depending upon the interests and goals of the parties undertaking the valuation, and these different perceptions often come to influence management of these species. Discussion and programmes directed toward "saving" elephants and whales are particularly instructive in this regard, as these species appeal to diverse groups for markedly different reasons. One of the main purposes is to make explicit the nature of different stakeholders' conservation perceptions and strategies in respect of these culturally important biological resources. This examination will hopefully inform ongoing discussion of such issues as sustainable and equitable wildlife and fisheries management plans, bioregionalism, and the maintenance of biodiversity.