Blog: Mixed emotions about the wolf hunt
Right now the DNR has opened up a period for people to apply for an opportunity to hunt wolves. I usually have a pretty good idea on where I stand with most issues, but this one has me torn.
Let me just say, that I am not anti-hunting. I personally do not hunt, but I'm all for the tradition of it and the fact that for many folks, this sport provides a source of food. Most of my friends are deer hunters and many hunt birds, but the idea of shooting a wolf, well...it just hits me wrong.
I have seen several wolves throughout my years living in the Northwoods. They are usually crossing a road or running through a field when I spot them. I'm always in awe when this happens. To me they represent the total wildness of northern Wisconsin; an animal so wrapped in mystic and beauty that to glimpse one is unforgettable.
The fortitutde and resilency of this animal is also truly remarkable. At one time they were actually extirpated from the state due to unrelentless killing from bounty hunters. When they started filtering back into Wisconsin from Minnesota, they became protected and their numbers grew fast. Now experts say there are more than 800 wolves in Wisconsin. The original goal was 200.
And so here is where the dilemma occurs. To put it in a nutshell more wolves mean more damage to livestock and hunting dogs. More predation on animals like deer and other wildlife...so their numbers must be reduced and the most efficient and cost effective way of doing that is to hunt them.
If someone gave me the opportunity to shoot a wolf on a hunting outing, I doubt I could. I would feel like I was shooting a dog. On the other hand, if one happened to come into my yard and prey on my own dog Homey or even my chickens, I know I would have no problem putting a bullet in one.
So my dilemma continues. I clearly see both sides of the issue and yet I can honestly say I don't know where I stand. But that's just another mysterious component about wolves. While their beauty and wildness are admirable indeed, they have, throughout time, caused much controversy amoung mankind. And I don't see that stopping anytime soon whether they are hunted or not.
3 Comments for "Blog: Mixed emotions about the wolf hunt"
Kehler George Aug 19, 2012 7:27 PM
This week I was taking to someone about one of my cats. He laughed and said, "theres a nine cent cure for that" I was raised with the saying that the only good cat is the one in a canvas bag sunk in the river. That is no longer my path. I am no longer in competion with my fellow man fueled by testosterone. I now see cats as unique animals that I accept with neutrality and repect for their individuality and characteristics. I now believe that all animals were put on this planet for a reason and who am I to decide which ones I think should live and which ones should die depending on my opinions of prejudice or greed. Hunting should be guided by the luck of the draw not manipulated by self interest.
I love shooting and grew up with an appreciation for the outdoors, but I think that when we are talking about finalizing the life of an animal we have to maintain repect and appreciation for its existence rather its inexistence.
I believe that man should not leave footprints when in the forest. How does man treat the forest when he buys it. Ownership in many cases voids stewartship. Native Americans believed that no one can own what the creator made.
We should not be arguing pro and con of its existence but be guided by preservation and respect. We don't have to dominate the environment to support its future. The environment belongs to all and should be preserved and protected by all to support it existence. Special interest should be replaced by objectivity.
Measure twice before you cut.
Life is a terrible thing to waste.
Food for thought
Craig Strid.
Dirts Sep 15, 2012 8:31 AM
Guides hire out the use of their dogs to clients.
Animals are chosen and trained to be effective animal fighters and the welfare of the dog is always at risk.
Its a sport.
Food for thought
Craig Strid
Dirts Sep 22, 2012 10:20 AM