charismatic megafauna

charismatic megafauna pl (plural only)

1. Large animals with broad popular appeal, especially as used by activists to focus public opinion on environmentalist goals.
   • 2001, Daniel Kemmis, Wolves and Human Communities, page 9:

     We might examine first the special nature of restoration or preservation issues as they relate to charismatic megafauna, the high-profile species of which wolves are a classic example.

   • 2009 September 23, The Guardian:

     Of course, it's easier to raise money for something fluffy. Charismatic megafauna like the panda do appeal to people's emotional side, and attract a lot of public attention.

   • 2011, Emma Marris, Rambunctious Garden, page 156:

     Conservationists often talk about the power of charismatic megafauna to get the public to care about the environment.