The Real Reason You Shouldn’t Feed the Wildlife
In general, experts discourage the practice of feeding wildlife. Wondering why? Well, it is a precautionary measure to avoid the problems due to change in the behavior and reaction of animals. It is common for animals to get aggressive and attack people, especially when they are hungry. By feeding them once, you may be making yourself subject to such problems. Let’s discuss the main reasons not to feed wildlife on your own.
Why You Shouldn’t Feed Wildlife – The Real Reasons
It is true that animals deserve the same level of affection and compassion as humans. However, experts discourage the practice of feeding wildlife at your home, on vacation, and in any local park. Here’s why:
Animals Lose the Natural Fear of People
When you feed wildlife animals, they become accustomed to the practice. Initially, you may love the experience, but the later interactions can be disturbing. They may keep coming back to you, which can become a safety risk for others and a nuisance for you, especially if it’s your home or you are on vacation.
Human Food Isn’t Always Suitable for Animals
Animal food and human food are not the same. Have you seen someone feeding bread or popcorn to ducks? These types of foods and others are not nutritious for animals and may cause health problems later. Furthermore, you should not feed wildlife processed foods that have minimal nutrition but many calories. This can be life-threatening to certain animals.
Animals Can show Aggressive Behavior
It is common for animals to lose control and get aggressive intentionally or unintentionally. So, when they want food, they may become aggressive. Nevertheless, when they don’t get food, they may attack you. Think about how we react when we are hungry or annoyed. The same applies to them. Not to mention, this will not only put you but others as well in danger. Therefore, you have to consider not feeding wildlife.
Vehicle Injuries and Deaths in Wildlife
Avoid calling animals to the other side or making them cross the road or enter high traffic areas for food. The next time even if you are not there, they may still run after a car for food. If they get aggressive, it can lead to property damages and safety risks. Besides, most of the wildlife injuries are road accidents and vehicle collisions.
Conclusion
Are you planning your next hiking or camping trip? You can visit Zion National Park in Southern Utah for a memorable experience. Just make sure not to share your food with the wildlife, as it will do more harm than good. Ferber Resorts offers hiking and other fun adventures in the region. You can check out our informational guides and customer testimonials on our official website. Ring us at 435-772-3237 for more information if you are planning a trip to Zion National Park.
Reference Links:
https://wmich.edu/sites/default/files/attachments/u301/2014/Reasons%20Not%20to%20Feed%20Wildlife.pdf
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/dont-feed-wild-animals-except-birds
https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/wildlifedamage/SA_Program_Overview/CT_Dontfeedwildlife
