Father's Day seems like a good time to reflect on our paternalistic approach to other species. Self-designated caretakers of the planet, we often interfere with the lives of "lower" animals, rescuing them from natural predators, storms and other threats that play an important role in the balance of ecosystems.
Of course, we must try to minimize unnatural human impact on animal populations; poaching, pollution and habitat destruction via agriculture or development are continuous threats to their welfare. On the other hand, our tendency to micromanage the natural environment by culling predators, introducing alien species or directly interfering with the life cycle of other species is frought with danger. Even our humane attempts to feed orphaned creatures or rescue beached whales is ill-advised; nature is not sentimental and the adversity suffered by one animal may be a crucial bounty for another.
If we truly care about the health of natural ecosystems, it is best that we leave them alone as much as possible. Our role should be limited to the protection and restoration of habitat and the control of human activities that threaten wild populations. When our structures, chemicals or behavior are responsible for the injury or entrapment of animals, rescue is appropriate; otherwise, it is best to let nature take control, however uncomfortable that may be to witness.
