Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Principle Blog Series: Part 6 of 7-Respect Wildlife



Respect Wildlife is the 6th of 7 Leave No Trace Principles.  Humans can unknowingly cause distress to animals by exhibiting the following behaviors:  cutting trail switch backs, getting too close, leaving behind food and trash, and being too loud (except in bear/mountain lion country).  When entering the natural world, we are in essence entering the home of wild animals.  Some ideas on ways we can respect wildlife are:

  • Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them.
  • Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviors, and exposes them to predators and other dangers.
  • Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securely.
  • Control pets at all times, or leave them at home.
  • Avoid wildlife during sensitive times: mating, nesting, raising young, or winter.

 To learn more about Respect Wildlife, CLICK HERE.

Explore Responsibly…Kate and Tracy

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