Loved reading about these elk mothers again. It’s difficult to understand why some people don’t believe that animals are sentient beings. Many “animal” mothers take much better care of their offspring than some humans!
Hi Gail. The more I learn about elk, bison, coyotes, and wolves, the more impressed I am with their intelligence and ability to coexist with us. I wish we could do better at coexisting with them.
Thanks for this post, Rick. These are wise and real words. I find myself with mixed feelings about human shielding. Regardless of the immediate danger to people, I wonder about the long term prospects for animals who adopt this practice. Are humans inadvertently contributing to an overall decline in the "behavioral health" of the elk and pronghorn? As always, I have only questions and no answers.
That's a very good question, Tom. I think that human shielding is yet another symptom of our human overpopulation. Too many humans, too many hunters, and too much encroachment of wild lands. Sadly, I don't see this changing.
Loved reading about these elk mothers again. It’s difficult to understand why some people don’t believe that animals are sentient beings. Many “animal” mothers take much better care of their offspring than some humans!
Hi Gail. The more I learn about elk, bison, coyotes, and wolves, the more impressed I am with their intelligence and ability to coexist with us. I wish we could do better at coexisting with them.
Thanks for this post, Rick. These are wise and real words. I find myself with mixed feelings about human shielding. Regardless of the immediate danger to people, I wonder about the long term prospects for animals who adopt this practice. Are humans inadvertently contributing to an overall decline in the "behavioral health" of the elk and pronghorn? As always, I have only questions and no answers.
That's a very good question, Tom. I think that human shielding is yet another symptom of our human overpopulation. Too many humans, too many hunters, and too much encroachment of wild lands. Sadly, I don't see this changing.
Love the photo, precious. Great and timely advice.
Thanks, Jane. I'm glad you enjoyed the newsletter. I sure enjoyed the moment.
That is so interesting and smart of them. Finally something good that humans can do for wildlife. Thank you.
It is interesting, Patricia, how wild animals have learned to coexist with us.
This one's a true delight, Rick, but also timely and helpful. Thanks!
Yes, that was a special moment watching this mom and calf. I'm glad you enjoyed it.