Allison Burbach (11/27): Conflict with Wildlife

The book Fuzz by Mary Roach chronicles curious conflicts between human and wildlife. Each chapter centers on a plant or animal that puts a unique spin on its conflict with humans. For example, murder and manslauter by bears and elephants, vandalism by pests, and robbery by monkeys and birds. All of these examples have the same theme--criminal acts, from a human perspective. Plants and animals however follow no lawbook or even moral compass, they follow their instincts. The examples given in the book show feeding, habitat, and defensive behaviors for their survival that just happen to interfere with built human environments or crops. The conflict, although presented in a comical way in this book, is a serious issue that speaks to coexistence and respect of nature. Humans have beyond destroyed the natural landscape, yet are offended when animals encroach on this space. Plants and animals have a range, a habitat in which they are confined. Thus, these species must continue their way of dwelling, their habitus, regardless of human presence. Instincts will always prevail for animals because evolution has shaped their needs and behaviors. Humans are allowed to be alarmed at the conflict, but we cannot be surprised.

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