Almost famous (?): The giant otter as a charismatic species in tourism

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the condition of the giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) as a charismatic species in tourism in the North Pantanal, Brazil, from its media representation and the tourists' perception about the species. Based on the Content Analysis methodology and an interdisciplinary theoretical approach, we analyzed the representation of these animals in television documentaries about Pantanal. Such evidence was articulated with the data obtained in a field research, in which ethnographic techniques were used based on the theoretical reference of multispecies ethnography. We conclude that the otters are positively represented in the media, but they are still fragile when it comes to their participation in tourist activities, especially given the possibility of conflicts with humans.