Ethan Walker, 2004 Essay Contest Winner
Ethan Walker
Walking slowly through the misty and chilly December air, there is no sound except the chirping of a bird off in the distance. After a satisfying night of sleep in the dense underbrush, I wander off into the meadow to snack on the unusual pile of lush alfalfa. After a couple of minutes, I suddenly hear the crack of a twig. I look up and look around; nothing but the bare trees and the ice on the ground. Suddenly, I am terrified by a noise. I see the hunter’s arrow fly into the tree next to me: So why do humans hunt?
One of the most common reasons people hunt is for food. People all over the world love the taste of wild animal meat. It is a good feeling to bring back game to the family. It is also helpful because wild game adds variety to the diet, whether it is deer, turkey or duck. People like to eat something different. “Especially in these days of ever-spiraling meat costs at the supermarket, we would do well to emulate the pioneer housewife and accept such offerings from the hunter/trapper as good sources of protein which will provide a wide variety of main dishes” (Gerry Steindler, Book edit Russell Tinsley). Another reasons humans hunt is to reduce the population of certain animals. If we do not reduce the population of male deer, for example, they will continually spar over territory, causing them stress. Over-population is the main cause of disease in many species of animals. Humans have become major predators in the food chain that is a normal part of our existence on this earth.
Everybody loves the excitement of the hunt. That is why hunting for fun is another reason we hunt. While hunting, there are times the human’s heart freezes, such as when that ten-point buck appears out of the woods or the turkey with an eleven-inch beard struts into a clearing. We love the thrill of hunting. It also is a challenge because sometimes you come home empty-handed and sometimes you bag that trophy. Hunting provides a good opportunity to be outside. Whether by yourself or with your favorite dogs, you can enjoy the outdoors. Additionally, hunting gives participants a chance to have a little competition with friends.
In conclusion, there are many reasons humans hunt. One is to supply food for the family. Another reason is to reduce the population of certain animals. One of the most popular reasons to hunt is for fun and competition. Seeing the beauty, hunters enjoy being outdoors. Those reasons are just a few of the many reasons that humans hunt.
Works Cited:
Tinsley, Russell, ed. Vol. 1. N.p.: n.p., 1976. 266-267
Weilert, John. Telephone interview. 26 Feb 2004.
