Condorinfo.org - cooperating to conserve condors

The following “Dos and Don’ts” are based on results of focus group research with hunters and ranchers, and will be helpful in communication efforts:

Do highlight the important conservation heritage that hunters and ranchers have. Hunters and ranchers are rightfully proud of their involvement in conservation issues. This is a deeply held core value that should be used to base other messages on.

Do Not begin any communications by referring to the rare or endangered status of condors. This is important supportive information, but is not the first message that should be presented.

Do emphasize that this is a pro-condor, conservation initiative.

Do Not characterize this effort as an anti-lead campaign.

Do emphasize that lead, while it has toxic characteristics, can be managed to reduce its risks. The voluntary actions identified are risk management activities designed so hunters and ranchers can choose the best action based on the specific circumstances they are facing.

Do Not characterize non-lead ammunition as the only potential solution to this issue.

Do emphasize that if hunters and ranchers want to continue to use lead-based ammunition they will have to take greater responsibility for the potential for lead’s unintended consequences.

Do Not insinuate that hunter/rancher lead is the only vector for lead poisoning in condors.

Do emphasize a coalition of hunting and ranching organizations are working together to resolve this issue.

Do Not use generalizations such as "many," "few," "some," etc. Hunters/ranchers are suspicious of these and are looking for supported facts from credible sources.

Do identify credible spokespersons to relay condor facts to hunters and ranchers. Hunters and ranchers will take action if convinced by credible sources that action is needed.

Do Not use federal agency representatives as information sources — they are not seen as credible by these target audiences.

Do emphasize that the best way hunters and ranchers can avoid a regulatory solution to this issue is to embrace the voluntary actions identified.

Do focus on one-on-one communications whenever possible.