Kangaroo or gangurru? Indigenous wildlife interpretation in Australia

Abstract

[Extract] This chapter evaluates the interpretation and presentation of Indigenous wildlife knowledge in wildlife attractions across mainland Australia. Our focus includes the involvement of Indigenous people as tour guides and wildlife keepers as well as the content of on-site interpretive signs, displays or brochures explaining Indigenous perspectives of Australian wildlife. Telephone interviews were conducted with 35 managers (9 Indigenous) and 26 Indigenous staff at 33 Australian wildlife attractions. The chapter reviews the verbal presentation of Indigenous culture and wildlife know]edge and the benefits of providing Indigenous wildlife interpretation at wildlife sites. Guidelines to further enhance and develop Indigenous wildlife interpretation at wildlife tourism attractions are also presented.