Previous research has shown that the general population are more likely to learn about certain species groups (such as sharks) from popular media as opposed to their own first-hand experience. Yet, personal encounters with these animals can drastically affect people’s beliefs and behaviors. This study surveyed 380 members of the public to assess their previous experience of encountering sharks and stingrays in the wild as well...

Keystone species populations, including shark and ray taxonomic groups, are declining due to numerous threats. A better understanding of how individual belief structures inform pro-conservation behavioral intentions is therefore critical to foster support for their conservation and the greater biodiversity of world ecosystems. This study conducted a survey to establish the general public’s cognitive beliefs about the mental an...