What impact does our recreation have on our wildlife?
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX) — The world is full of amazing creatures, with thousands right in our backyard. Both plants and organisms rely on each other to survive, in one delicate dance of life.
Joel Berger, a key player in wildlife conservation through Colorado State University, has studied big horn sheep for years.
Berger recently spoke in Moab and Durango. Now he’s here in Grand Junction, before he heads to Texas for more lectures.
He tells me the recent influx of cars, side-by-sides, and hiking has inadvertently started causing problems, especially with big horn sheep.
Though most of us don’t intend to disturb the wildlife, our presence, our buildings, roadways, and traffic can all drive them away.
Just like any animal, if they’re around humans long enough, they’ll get used to us. But for those who aren’t, they show flight about five to ten times more.
Berger adds if moms or moms-to-be are running five to ten times as far, it can cause a weakened immune system, lack of nutrients, and other health issues.
We’re fortunate to live amongst these magnificent creatures, and everyone needs to do their part to keep them around and healthy for generations to come.
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