There has been a lot of talk in recent years about whether it is actually ethical to participate in wildlife tourism. Travelers enjoy getting close to animals and meeting all the different species that inhabit the Earth. However, by doing so, they can potentially harm both the animals and their surroundings.
Threading a fine line between having a respectful wildlife tourism experience and contributing to the harm of animals was never harder. However, some tips can help you become a more responsible wildlife tourist.
Do Your Research
Everything starts with basic research. Before engaging in a wildlife experience, check out the reviews from other tourists. See what type of service is offered, if they mention red flags, and the overall experience. You will probably find some conscious travelers who will share their experiences to help others.
Watch From a Distance
The closer your wildlife experience gets you to the animals, the less ethical it is. If you get offered a chance to take photos with animals, hold them, or interact with them, know that those animals are probably not being treated well. By taking part in such an experience, you are encouraging it. Instead, opt for safaris that will allow you to watch the wildlife from a distance.
Don’t Feed the Animals
People see animals in the wild and think they are doing a good deed by giving them food. However, they are doing the opposite. Wildlife animals have different diets compared to humans, so giving them something they are not accustomed to could be extremely harmful. It could also lead to other negative effects like spreading illnesses and animals approaching humans more frequently in searching for food.
Support Welfare Organization
The best way to be a more responsible wildlife tourist is to support welfare organizations that fight wild animal cruelty and wild animal exploitation. They are usually underfunded, so any type of support will probably be helpful.