The Role of the Hunter
Throughout history, hunting has been a necessity for humanity, ensuring their survival. In modern times, the need to hunt for food has been diminished. While many people still hunt for food, it has become more of a recreational activity. Despite the different purposes, hunting has remained a legitimate and viable activity today.
Today, hunters are largely responsible for:
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Hunters have long been concerned for the welfare of wildlife. Hunters have identified problems such as pollution and its effect on wildlife, habitat loss and abuse, and helping focus public attention on the plight of rare and endangered species.
Organizations that were initiated and supported actively by hunters:
Task: Complete the web-search activity to find out more about the 3 organizations shown above. You can find their websites in a google search or by clicking on the images/buttons by their logo. Once you are finished, please watch the video on hunting ethics.
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Hunting Ethics
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How we behave and how we follow the rules affects other people. As a hunter, you MUST be aware of how your personal behaviour and activities, as well as the actions of your companions, will affect others.
There are both written and unwritten rules when it comes to hunting. We will cover the written, or legal side of hunting later this term. The unwritten rules of hunting are called ethics. What does the term "ethics" mean?
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Ethics are standard of behaviour or conduct which are considered to be morally right. Each individual must make a personal judgement about whether certain behaviour is right or wrong. If a person TRULY believes that a specific action is morally right, then it is ethical for him to act that way.
Chances are, you have already begun to develop a personal code of ethics. You have a standard of appropriate behaviour that allows you to interact with others on a mutual playing field of respect.
Your personal code of ethics and hunting behaviour may change through the years. This change in behaviour is typical of most hunters. |
There are 5 main "behavioural stages" common to hunters:
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Task: In you Conservation Manual, read pages 3 - 7: Ethics for Consideration. Create a personal code of ethics highlighting each of the subcategories found in your manual. Along with a description of each point, list 2 - 3 examples of situation where your ethical code may come into play.
HOMEWORK |
Complete the section quiz found at the top of this page. It would be wise to have your Conservation and Hunter Education manual with you while you complete your test. You should highlight key information so it's easy to find.
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