What the study found
The meta-analysis found a modest but statistically significant positive association between animal encounters and connection to nature. The authors report that the overall effect was small, with low heterogeneity and negligible publication bias.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors conclude that these findings suggest animals may play a role in strengthening connection to nature, which the abstract describes as relevant to pro-environmental behavior and individual well-being. They also state that the findings support using animal contact in conservation engagement efforts.
What the researchers tested
The researchers followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines and searched ProQuest, Web of Science, ERIC, and PubMed for empirical, peer-reviewed studies published from 2000 to 2024. They included 116 studies in the systematic review and 15 studies, yielding 23 independent samples, in the meta-analysis.
What worked and what didn't
The analysis indicated a small positive effect of animal encounters on connection to nature (d = 0.18, 95% CI [0.10, 0.26]). Mammals and birds were the most frequently studied animals, while amphibians, reptiles, and fish were underrepresented. The abstract also notes that most studies had sample sizes below 1000 participants.
What to keep in mind
The abstract does not describe detailed limitations beyond the underrepresentation of some animal groups and the fact that most studies were relatively small. The findings are based on studies from 2000 to 2024, with most reviewed studies conducted in North America, Europe, and Australia.
Key points
- Animal encounters showed a small but statistically significant positive association with connection to nature.
- The meta-analysis reported low heterogeneity and negligible publication bias.
- A total of 116 studies were included in the systematic review, and 15 studies contributed to the meta-analysis.
- Mammals and birds were studied most often; amphibians, reptiles, and fish were underrepresented.
- Most included studies had fewer than 1000 participants.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Animal encounters are linked to stronger nature connection
- Authors:
- Matthias Winfried Kleespies, Paul Wilhelm Dierkes
- Institutions:
- Goethe University Frankfurt
- Publication date:
- 2026-03-11
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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