Interaction between coastal birds and recreational fisheries in Argentine: Incorporating the social dimension to improve effectiveness of conservation and management measures in a key estuarine reserve

Abstract

Marine recreational fishing in Argentina is an activity with a high socioeconomic impact. Its effects on the ecosystem have been poorly explored, for example, impacts of anglers on coastal birds. This study assessed perceptions and feelings of anglers towards their interaction with coastal birds, with the ultimate goal of generating information of socioecological value to be incorporated into national conservation instruments. A total of 240 structured questionnaires were conducted on active recreational fishers from the Mar Chiquita Reserve, Argentina. Main motivations to visit the fishing site expressed by respondents were the fishing quality and the peaceful and natural features of the reserve. Most anglers knew about the protected status of the site and have seen coastal birds during their fishing day, considering them to be beneficial to the ecosystem. Anglers observed coastal birds feeding on discards frequently; birds stealing the bait or the catch at moderate frequency; and birds entangled in fishing lines rarely. Most anglers indicated the occurrence of interaction with coastal birds during their activities, and expressed sadness when spotting a bird entangled in a fishing line. The information that emerged from this study could be used to develop informational strategies, for example guidelines for responsible fishing and signage aimed to inform anglers about the potential impacts of their interaction with coastal birds.