Development of the sustainable hunting scale: A case study of Muğla province

Ensuring the sustainability of hunting and wildlife can be possible by determining hunter profiles with different characteristics in Türkiye and analysing the perceptions and attitudes of hunters towards the sustainability of hunting and wildlife. In this thesis, it is aimed to develop a sustainable hunting scale with structural equation modelling in order to determine the perceptions and attitudes of hunters towards the sustainability of hunting and wildlife. In order to achieve this aim, data were obtained through structured and closed-ended questionnaires developed with hunters with hunting certificates, and Confirmatory Factor Analysis and Structural Equation Modelling were used in the method of the study. As a result of the study, the basic components of sustainable hunting were determined. Accordingly; Hunting Ethics, Essence of Hunting, Sustainable Hunting Strategies, Hunting Culture, Requirements of Sustainable Hunting, Economic Dimension of Sustainable Hunting, Effect of Poaching on Sustainable Hunting, Suggestions for the Development of Sustainable Hunting are grouped under 8 main factors. In addition, within the scope of the study, the studies on sustainable hunting in the literature were analysed and the statements forming the main factors were discussed with the findings obtained. As a result of the study, policy recommendations were presented to decision makers and practitioners with the scale developed.