Conhecendo as aves do Parque Estadual Pedra da Boca (Araruna, PB): um material didático para educação ambiental, turismo e comunidade

Abstract

The conservation of biodiversity and the promotion of Environmental Education (EE) in Protected Areas (PAs) require strategies that bring science, community, and tourism closer together. The Parque Estadual da Pedra da Boca (PEPB), located in Araruna, Paraíba, within the Caatinga biome, is recognized for adventure tourism, yet its biodiversity remains little publicized. In this context, birdwatching emerges as a relevant tool to integrate ecotourism, education, and conservation. This research aimed to develop and evaluate an educational material in the format of an interactive brochure about the avifauna of PEPB, in order to strengthen birdwatching as an educational, touristic, and community practice. The study adopted both qualitative and quantitative approaches, structured in four stages: (i) avifauna survey; (ii) production of the educational material; (iii) application with three audiences (educators, tourists, and the local community); and (iv) evaluation of the brochure’s effectiveness. The avifauna inventory was carried out between December 2024 and July 2025, totaling five expeditions and fourteen field days. Thirty emblematic and easily recognizable bird species were selected, belonging to 12 orders and 21 families. The produced brochure combined accessible visual and textual content, with original and collaborator-contributed photographs, species descriptions (common, scientific, and English names, habits, vocalizations, and curiosities), as well as guidelines for responsible birdwatching practices. As a distinctive feature, it incorporated gamification resources, such as the “Observer’s Challenge” and a sticker sheet, stimulating public engagement and making the educational experience more playful. In the application stage, nine individuals participated (three educators, three tourists, and three community members). Data were obtained through semi-structured interviews and content analysis. Results indicated that the material was considered clear, attractive, and easy to use, contributing to learning and to the appreciation of local avifauna. Educators highlighted its pedagogical potential in the classroom; tourists pointed out its value for sustainable ecotourism; and community members recognized the brochure as a tool for strengthening territorial identity. Furthermore, the work gave rise to the extension project “Passarinhando nas UCs!”, expanding the reach of the proposal to other contexts of environmental awareness. It is concluded that the developed brochure constitutes an innovative didactic resource, capable of articulating science, education, and tourism, while promoting the conservation of Caatinga biodiversity. The research reinforces the importance of accessible and interactive educational materials as tools for scientific popularization and for encouraging community participation in environmental protection.