If invited to a friend’s home for dinner, it’s reasonable that we would be respectful of the host’s home and expectations. Similarly, as human development encroaches further into ancestral homes of wildlife, we should be respectful of their needs and inclinations.
When we move into areas where frequent sightings or encounters are known to occur, we could consider the predator’s perspective. They are perhaps intimidated by our bright lights and unusual noises. They may be challenged to navigate fences and buildings that now block access to their traditional hunting areas. They understandably become driven by decreasing access to food and water to tolerate risks when instincts and fear teach them to avoid us.
The past suggests that human beings will continue to expand into previously unspoiled habitats of wild beings. This behooves us to be the same good quests we would be when invited into that friend’s home. This could start with keeping our cats indoors or supervised in our fenced yards, keeping dogs on a leash unless supervised in a park, and keeping food and trash contained. It means driving slower in areas of the city known for deer crossings.
Of course no one wants a pet or person to come into conflict with wildlife or even by an aggressive stray pet. And no one wants the wild animal harmed or persecuted. But when our pets are loose, they become just another member of the animal hierarchy. We could be potentially providing an attractive nuisance that with the increasing absence of natural prey and water, leaves little choice for the desperate predator.
Beyond sharing photos of these beautiful animals or calling authorities when absolutely necessary, let’s strive on our own to consistently follow practices that protect the welfare of both our dependent pets and the welfare of the innocent wild beings we may choose to live among. You can learn more ways to live well with wildlife from organizations like the Humane Society of the United States.
Paul Zuckerman, Salt Lake City
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