While we were in shallow water performing a grassy bottom beach seine a stingray swam around us. It returned several times circling our group. We were told by our instructors that stingrays are fed at this location and that it was looking to be fed. Many people and tour outfits feed wild animals like rays and sharks to bring people closer to these animals. By feeding these animals they begin to associate humans with food. This association brings humans and wildlife in more frequent contact which poses hazards to both wildlife and humans.
What are some ways that we can educate people about the importance of not feeding wild animals?
What are some ways that we can educate people about the importance of not feeding wild animals?
It's unfortunate that most people do not know how feeding wild animals can negatively impact their behavior and health. I try to approach people in a gentle manner, saying something like:
"I see that you love animals and so do I! I actually study the biology of animals and I thought you might want to know that people food is not a normal part of this animal's diet and can actually make it very sick."