What is Responsible tourism? We all want to be the responsible Eco-traveller.
You arrive in the beautiful national park with an idyllic setting. Suddenly a cute little face appears in the form of a cuddly squirrel or cheeky hornbill, even an innocent looking monkey. They look as if they can do with a little snack. But alas a big sign screams “Do Not Feed The Animals!” Why can they be so uncaring? In short, an understanding and respect for animals behavior can unravel much of the question that is, “what is ecotourism? Read on, as we explain the method behind these precautions.
Why can’t I feed them.
The Animal world is ruled by two Natural Instincts -Dominance and Territory. This especially includes access to food. Animals have to fight to get food and to protect it. An animal will NOT surrender their food or territory without a fight. Only the weak will submit and willingly give away their food and territory. Humans handing out food creates the impression of surrender and submission. This leads to the animal becoming “dominant” and will then demand more food and also claim the territory. This, in turn, can lead to aggressive and threatening behaviour if their demands are not met.
What is Responsible tourism? Feeding animals has severe results.
The end result frequently leads to conflict or even injuries, and in extreme situations, the authorities will have to kill the ” nuisance ” offender.
I know in our human mind feeding the hungry, and the cute animal appears charitable, but this is not how Nature works.
To lure an animal with food as bait for a good photograph is even more unacceptable.
Another misconception is that you do not actively feed the animal but leaving food unattended or accessible is just as bad or even worse than feeding. This teaches them to become cunning and destructive scavengers and thieves. Baboons can easily rip open a canvas tent to reach food.
What is Responsible tourism? Our food should not be their food.
“Easy ” food also makes animals and birds lazy feeders, and they will rather steal a sandwich than hunt for food.
Hyenas with their strong jaws can destroy kitchen equipment that contains food or leftovers and don’t forget monkeys are smart enough to open lids and even latches.
We also do not realise that human food is not part of any animal’s diet. Birds eat seeds and insects, not bread and cookies. Monkeys and baboons don’t eat marshmallows or potato crisps. Feeding them our food can lead to severe health and metabolic problems for them.
By sticking to Nature’s rules, you allow the animal to keep his territory, and we can keep to ours and then enjoy the animals in their natural world.
If you love me, dont feed me.
Written by: Johan Van Rensburg
Photos by: Love Nature Phix