While studies have highlighted the psychological benefits of interacting with birds, research exploring, which personality traits influence interest in birdwatching remains limited. This study examined the impact of personality on birdwatching engagement among 85 participants (56.5% male, mean age = 33.0 years) in Isfahan, Iran. Employing the NEO-Five Factor Inventory, we assessed personality traits and measured participants’ immediate and sustained interest in birdwatching, as well as self-identification as a birdwatcher, following a structured intervention comprising three educational sessions and a full-day birdwatching trip. Openness to Experience emerged as the strongest predictor of both immediate (M = 3.45, SD = 1.06) and sustained interest (M = 3.25, SD = 1.07) over 6 months, significantly predicted self-identification as a birdwatcher (β = 0.49). Agreeableness and Conscientiousness also had positive effects, whereas Neuroticism negatively impacted it. These findings indicate how personality profiling can enhance the design of nature-based activities, maximizing engagement and participation.
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