Holding up a mirror to the society: Children recognize exotic species much more than local ones

► Flagship species appear to lead awareness, money, attention and knowledge. ► Knowledge of local fauna is crucial to promote conservation, especially on islands. ► We quantify children's knowledge on native and exotic vertebrates in the Balearic Islands. ► Exotic species, especially mammals, are much better known than local fauna. ► If we are to protect local fauna we should engage children's interest in their own natural world.