Prey or Predator...You Decide

Am I being realistic or pessimistic?  I really do believe that animals only come in two varieties: Prey or Predator.  And since people are animals, that logic applies to us as well.  Perhaps that's why I have such a passion for hunting.  It's not so much the action of overwhelming the prey, but knowing that I am the hunter and in control.  Perhaps that explains why I get so stressed when I am not in control and feel as though I am the prey.  I've been feeling that way for a much to long now.

In nature, prey and predator often live in harmony.  Prey knowing that a safe distance must be maintained.  Predator knowing that prey must remain localized and in abundance for the predator to survive.  I have no desire to dispatch prey because I want to gain notoriety or demonstrate my killing efficiency quotient.  Those that do it for this purpose should experience what's it like when you do not have the advantage of having the only weapon and can become prey instead of predator.  High-fives after shooting an animal at 200-300 yards is a juvenile ritual for those who are too lazy to learn the skills needed to overcome the natural instincts of the prey they stalk.  That's like the wealthy taking advantage of those of us who work hard everyday to just get by...because they can.  They do it from a distance so that they have no real personal involvement.  The man whose confidence and talents are derived from his bank account balance knows damn well that if he gets too close, he may have to face the harsh reality that he is not the man that his wealth has purchased the appearance of him as being.

131024 What Kind of Hunter?

I often wonder just what kind of hunter I am. I watch outdoor shows that characterize the hunter as a guy ready to kill anything breathing. Whereas, I see myself as the guy who is amazed at the survival skills of the prey I stalk and will only kill what I will eat. Am I being a whimp? Should I shoot the deer who does not perceive me as a threat because some misguided animal lover thought it a good idea to feed the animal whenever possible? At this point, the answer is no. I will not shoot an animal corrupted by human ignorance. However, I will attempt to reintroduce the prey/predator concept. I know that my hunting buddies would not hesitate to shoot a trusting animal. I see my role as the animal's guardian and protector. An odd perspective for sure. HoweverN I find myself trying to make sure that all of the requirements for sustaing the animal and its decendants are in place and properly cared for. I would not hesitate to report the poacher . I would try to educate the misguided do-gooder who try to domestcate wild animals. I speak out against those who are rapidly destroying the habitat that the animals need for survival. And I take my long bow and wooden aarows into the field with the hope of harvesting one of these wonderful beast for personal consumption. Yes, I see myself more as the type of hunter represented in Native American traditional lore. I only take from the earth what I need and always give back more. This my way of helping to keep nature in balance for future generations to enjoy.