Approaching Wildlife

Thanks to all those who participated in this week's poll: What should you do when you see wildlife approaching your campsite?

Possible answers were:

1. Put food on the ground to feed the animal.

2. Make lots of noise to scare the animal away.

3. Be quite and try not to startle the animal.

4. Sneak up close to the animal to get a good look. 

The correct answer is: Be quiet and try not to startle the animal. 

Encounters with wildlife inspire tall tales and long moments of wonder. Unfortunately, wildlife around the world faces threats from loss and fragmentation of habitat, invasive species, pollution, over-exploitation, poaching and disease. Protected lands offer a last refuge from some, but not all, of these problems. Consequently, wild animals need recreationists who will promote their survival rather than add to the difficulties they already face.

We know that animals respond to people in different ways. Some species adapt readily to humans in their domain, resume their normal behaviors and are said to be “habituated.” Other animals flee from humans, abandoning their young or critical habitat. Still others are attracted and endangered by human food and trash.

Because outdoor recreation is dispersed over large areas and at all times of the year, its impacts on wildlife can be equally extensive. Fish, birds, and reptiles, as well as mammals, are affected by people using their habitats. We are responsible for coexisting peacefully with wildlife.

Always watch or photograph animals from a safe distance to avoid startling them or forcing them to flee. Do not follow or approach them. If you’re hunting, know your game and take only safe, clean shots.

Use the observation areas, platforms and trails provided in many areas, and bring binoculars, spotting scopes, and telephoto lenses to watch wildlife. Back away if animals react to your presence. To leave the area, move away from the animal even if you must detour from your intended travel direction. You have more options in your movements than animals do. Treat them generously.

 Avoid quick movements and direct eye contact, which may be interpreted as aggression. Don’t disturb wildlife (i.e. by shouting to get their attention) to get a better photo. If animals are on the move, stay out of their line of travel. Travel quietly except in bear or mountain lion country. Don’t hike at night where nocturnal predators may present a hazard to safety.

Adult behaviors influence the relationship of children to the natural world. Show respect and restraint by teaching children not to approach, pet or feed wild animals. Always keep children in immediate sight. They’re often the same size as animal prey. Don’t encircle or crowd wildlife, tease or attempt to pick up a wild animal. Young animals, removed or touched by well-meaning people, may be abandoned by their parents. If you find an animal in trouble, notify a game warden.