Millions of people are beginning to travel again this summer as pandemic restrictions wind down. Many of those people are headed for the great outdoors. But as researchers of conservation and wildlife and human impact, we believe it’s important to know that you can have major effects on wildlife just by being nearby. Studies covering many species have found that the presence of humans can alter wild animal and bird behavior patterns at much greater distances than most people may think.
Key Takeaways:
- People are starting to travel again since restrictions are slowing down and people want to be in the great outdoors.
- Many people want to spend time in nature to see birds and animals. However, it’s important to understand how humans affect wildlife.
- The effect that humans have on animals is different depending on the species. Some are disturbed by humans more than others.
“Decades of research have shown that outdoor recreation, whether it’s hiking, cross-country skiing or riding all-terrain vehicles, has negative effects on wildlife.”
