Historically, human “management” of wildlife has involved culling (killing) animals that have been deemed to be in conflict with human activities (such as agriculture) or causing a threat to another wild population’s viability, such as with wolves and caribou. Culling is unnecessary. Alternative methods to avoid animal/human conflict and to prevent significant danger to humans and/or other animals include:
- Humane deterrents (e.g. motion-sensitive sprinklers)
- Non-contact hazing (e.g. shouting, making noise/scents to ensure an animal leaves an area)
- Anti-feeding bylaws
- Road signage
- Contraception and translocation carried out by trained professionals with appropriate authority
Wildlife also face significant welfare consequences as a result of the wildlife trade. Live animals and the bodies of deceased animals are traded internationally. The risk of disease transfer between species, including from animals to humans, is high. Additionally, being kept in cages and transport for long hours leads to significant levels of animal distress.
What we are doing about it
Dangerous wildlife poisons
Rodenticides are highly toxic poisons that cause a slow and painful death for the rodents that consume them and can severely injure or kill any scavengers, predators or pets who encounter the poisoned rodents. Animal advocates are calling for a full ban on these inhumane and indiscriminate poisons.
Latest news
Canada to ban open-net pen salmon farming in British Columbia
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jun/20/canada-to-ban-open-net-pen-salmon-farming-in-british-columbia The Canadian government has announced a decision to ban open-net pen salmon farming in British Columbia coastal waters in five years! Fish farms keep fishes in crowded conditions that can lead to stress, disease, and the spread of parasites, which farms combat by relying heavily on antibiotics. Open-net fish farms pose a major problem…
Fines for illegal hunting and fishing more than double in B.C.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/bc-hunting-fishing-wildlife-act-fines-1.7237960 “Fines for illegal hunting and fishing in British Columbia are more than doubling as the province cracks down on offences against wildlife.” “The ministry says in a news release the new penalties ‘better reflect the serious nature’ of wildlife offences and acknowledge the importance of wildlife to B.C.” Jesse Zeman, Executive Director of the B.C. Wildlife…
Podcast: Lessons from grassroots advocacy
Grassroots advocates have the power to mobilize communities and influence policies to improve animal well-being. In this month’s episode of The Informed Animal Ally, two grassroots advocates share their experiences and the lessons they’ve learned in calling for change for animals. Note: This written discussion has been edited for length. Featured Guest: Barbara La Pointe Librarian…
Undisclosed coyote trapping in Stanley Park sparks public safety backlash
https://www.vancouverisawesome.com/highlights/undisclosed-coyote-trapping-in-stanley-park-sparks-public-safety-backlash-8157496 An undisclosed research program to trap coyotes using drop nets, neck snares and leg-hold traps in Stanley Park poses a threat to public safety. “Aaron Hofman, director of advocacy and policy at the non-profit The Fur-Bearers, said that by failing to disclose the plan to the public, the City of Vancouver is putting workers, park-goers,…
