7 - What is the use?

Summary

Previous chapters showed carnivores as a dangerous and expensive nuisance, but it would go against the grain to leave it at that. They are highly attractive animals, and if that is not enough, wild carnivores can also be tremendously useful to us. In this chapter I will discuss some of their direct, material benefits – often more of historical significance than of present-day importance, but nevertheless far-reaching aspects of our ecological relationship with carnivores.

Some time ago I gave a talk here in my Scottish village, and when it came to the conservation of otters, a somewhat grumpy farmer asked ‘what is the use of them to me?’ He was, of course, implying that otters and their conservation are a waste of time. To many people, like me, otters are of use, simply because we are thrilled if we see them, and even if we do not actually come across an otter we enjoy the knowledge that we might, and that they are there in the river or the lake. People are even prepared to pay for this pleasure. Nevertheless, the farmer's utilitarian question is central to society's approach to the environment. Can we eat them, use their products, or do they provide a sport or service? In the end it is this question that will determine the survival of many of these species.

CARNIVORES AS FOOD

In modern western society we do not eat carnivores any more; even the idea is rather repulsive.