Stingrays suffering from wildlife
tourism
Author: David Adam - Rating
** ½
Interacting with wild animals is a growing phenomenon that many people I
know, myself included, have tried over the past few years. In my chosen article
it is discussed how wild creatures can be affected by Wildlife tourism. It
discusses specifically the results of a study conducted on a large group of
stingrays frequented by tour groups in the Cayman Islands. The study found that
the stingrays that interact with humans on a daily basis are in poorer health,
and with weaker immune systems, than those that do not, suggesting that the
constant interaction may be tiring them out and making them far more susceptible
to disease. The stingrays in tourist-y
areas are also often hurt or affected by boat motors and crowded conditions.
The results of this study have led for some to call for tighter regulations on
the industry and stricter rules concerning the feeding of stingrays. The impact
of wildlife tourism on other animals (bears, sharks penguins etc.) is mentioned
as well. Too much human curiosity, even when physical interaction isn’t part of
the equation, seems to be having negative repercussions on other species, land
or water. The use of food to attract
species for tourist purposes, for examples, may be causing animals to grow reliant
on human help for food, be decreasing their independence, and lessening their
hunting skills. This isn’t to say that all wildlife tourism is negative, it is
more so trying to highlight the precautions that need to be taken to prevent it
from impacting animals and, by consequent, their eco-systems. When done right,
wildlife tourism can be beneficial. Of course it allows an unforgettable experience
for the people that try it but it can also be a great way to raise awareness
and money for various species. Money raised can be used to help keep research
going and habitats cleans. When done
right, human curiosity can be satisfied and species can be kept thriving. A
win-win!
I found this
article to be quite interesting. Having interacted with animals while visiting
another country in the past it made me reflect on whether or not my experience
would’ve had a positive effect on the animals I was with. I also gave me an
awareness I will bear in mind as I continue to travel and try new things
concerning wildlife in the future. More broadly it made me think of the affect
I have on wildlife on a day to basis while doing things as simple as hiking or
even walking to school. I was able to relate this article to our classes
experience in Algonquin as we were always encourage to be mindful of our
surrounding when we were there. With what this article has taught me I will try
my best to interact with nature in way that isn’t harmful and not take for
granted the amazing creatures around us.
Source: The Guardian
online – Environment articles Date
accessed: Jan. 11th
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