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How do we define the term “charismatic fauna”? What makes a species “charismatic”, attractive, and appealing to us, and what makes a species not?

Well, “charismatic fauna” has never been universally defined, and many factors come into play when determining the charisma of a species, including its appearance, level of threat, ability to be anthropomorphised. There are no set characteristics that can be applied to every animal considered charismatic, and its subjectivity among different people makes it even harder for a strict definition to be applied.

That being said, it is found that majority of charismatic fauna are large, exotic, terrestrial mammals, considered to be beautiful, impressive, or endangered. 

Notably, charismatic fauna are able to evoke positive emotions in people. Even dangerous apex predators such as tigers, lions and wolves benefit from this, as they are often associated with majesty and power, evoking in us a sense of awe and respect. There are also the adorable and cuddly ones, such as the giant panda and the koala, who evoke feelings of tenderness and joy. These emotions attract us and drive the desire in us to protect them.

A species is also more likely to be attractive to us if we can relate to it, meaning that human-like species, such as the apes, have an upper hand in gaining our love and affection. The more similar an animal is to us, the closer they are placed into our human-centric worldview. Consequently, we develop a moral duty to protect them, as well as a psychological belonging with them. Seeing ourselves in the animal makes it easier for us to care for them and therefore.

We are also hardwired to be more attracted to the cute and cuddly. People generally feel affection for animals with baby-like features: big eyes, round heads, soft to the touch… Cuteness goes far deeper than just visual pleasure – it sparks brain activity and even shapes our behaviour to make us more compassionate. This can be attributed to the innate instinct in humans to care for, protect, and nurture our babies, which also translates to how we feel about cute animals as well! Therefore, the more baby-like an animal is, the more we would be inclined to protect it.