I’ve been in a wheelchair for several years because of a genetic condition, but I was disappointed to read about the accessible fishing and hunting program that encourages people with disabilities to kill animals. (“Find solace in the outdoors: Ice fishing tournament for disabled veterans, others,” Detroit Free Press, Jan. 30, 2024.) There are many things that I wish I could do in the same way as more able-bodied individuals — running, hiking, skating, playing softball — but harming wildlife is not one of them.
I believe that fish, deer and all other animals can feel pain, joy, love and grief, just as humans can, and that fish can count, tell time and keep track of complex social relationships. And scientists have found more than 20 pain receptors in their mouths and heads. Deer don’t need us to “manage” their populations. They reproduce in accordance with available food and habitat. After a hunt, the unnatural spike in resources results in increased breeding and more twins.
I spend my days encouraging others to be kind — both indoors and out.