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animal behavior

The Double-Edged Sword of Ecotourism... Are We Loving Wildlife to Death?

Over the past decade, social media has transformed the way we connect with wildlife.

Stunning photos and videos of humpback whales breaching, polar bears roaming the tundra, or tigers stalking through the forest inspire millions to explore these wild places.

This surge in interest has fueled a massive growth in ecotourism, bringing much-needed attention and funding to local communities and conservation efforts.

But as more people flock to wildlife hotspots, it raises an important question:

Can we love an animal to death?

Grey Whale watching off Magdalena Bay, Mexico.

There’s no denying the power of witnessing wildlife up close.

These experiences foster deep connections and inspire a sense of responsibility for protecting our planet’s most vulnerable species.

Ecotourism provides vital economic support for local communities, often funding anti-poaching initiatives, habitat restoration, and education programs.

In my opinion, ecotourism is the key to the survival of many species.

The sad reality is that governments often don’t care about wildlife unless there’s money involved. They collect revenue either from ecotourism operators or from industries like fishing or hunting—and they don’t care which one it is… as long as the money flows their way.

This means that when wildlife has economic value tied to tourism, it’s more likely to be protected.

Ecotourism not only funds conservation efforts but also creates incentives for governments and communities to prioritize wildlife over exploitation.

Yet, there’s a darker side.

Increased human presence can disrupt natural behaviors. Animals may become stressed, altering their feeding, migration, or mating patterns. Some even become habituated to humans, which can put them at risk of harm or conflict.

The truth is, most animals don’t want us there.

Whether it’s a whale avoid boats, a fox fleeing at the sight of humans, or a bird scared off its nest, these are clear signs that our presence isn’t always welcome.

And I’m the first to admit—I’ve been guilty of this. I’ve wanted to see an animal and capture their beauty through a lens, even when they’ve shown signs of wanting to be left alone.

What I’ve learned over time, however, is that the true magic of wildlife encounters happens when an animal chooses to be in our presence… or tolerates it.

Grey whale asking for a face rub.

Through patience and respect, these moments are far more rewarding and meaningful. Watching an orca glide alongside our boat without fear or seeing a bear go about its life undisturbed—that’s when you truly feel a connection to the wild.

Despite the challenges, I firmly believe ecotourism is the only way to save wildlife.

It gives animals an economic value tied to their survival, creating incentives for protection rather than exploitation.

With respect and care, we can still visit our favorite wild places and create positive experiences for both people and wildlife.

As travelers, we hold the power to ensure that our adventures leave a positive impact:

  • Choose responsible operators who prioritize animal welfare and conservation.

  • Be respectful with wildlife, avoiding behaviors that may stress or scare them.

  • Use social media thoughtfully—avoid tagging/sharing fragile locations to prevent overcrowding.

By treading lightly and embracing responsible tourism, we can preserve the species we love while fostering deep connections that inspire conservation.

Ecotourism has the potential to be a powerful force for good… but only if it’s done right.

With patience, respect, and a focus on responsible travel, we can continue to explore the wild places we love while ensuring wildlife thrives for generations to come.

Thank you for reading.

Photographing Wildlife... Some Tips for Capturing Animals in Action.

Photographing wildlife has always been one of my greatest passions. There's nothing quite like the thrill of capturing a great image of an animal in its natural habitat, whether it’s a tiger prowling through the forest or an orca, mom and calf swimming through the ocean.

Over the years, I’ve learned that getting the perfect shot is more than just having a good camera; it’s about understanding the behavior of the animals and being prepared to capture those fleeting moments.

Here are some essential tips I’ve gathered from my own adventures in the wild, which I hope will help you capture stunning wildlife photos of your own.

1. Understand Animal Behavior

One of the first things I realized early on is the importance of understanding the animals you’re photographing. Every species has unique behaviors, and being familiar with these can help you anticipate their movements.

For example, if you’re photographing a fox, knowing that they tend to be more active at dawn and dusk can guide you on the best times to shoot. Similarly, understanding that a perched bird will often defecate right before flight can help you prepare for the perfect shot just as it takes off.

This type of knowledge has helped me capture some of my most cherished photos.

2. Choose the Right Camera Settings

When it comes to wildlife photography, your camera settings can make or break your shot. Fast-moving animals require a faster shutter speed to freeze the action. I typically set my shutter speed to at least 1/2000th of a second for fast-moving subjects like birds or big cats.

If you’re photographing slower animals, such as tortoises or resting deer, you can afford a slower shutter speed.

Aperture settings also play a crucial role. A wider aperture (like f/2.8 or f/4) allows for a shallow depth of field, making your subject stand out against a beautifully blurred background. This works wonderfully when photographing animals in dense foliage or when you want to isolate them from a busy environment.

3. Be Patient and Stay Ready

Patience is your best friend in wildlife photography. I’ve spent countless hours sitting quietly, waiting for that perfect moment.

Whether it’s waiting for a bobcat to pop out of the bushes to catch a bird, or for a breaching whale, those moments don’t come on command.

But trust me, the wait is always worth it… so always have your camera ready.

Wildlife is unpredictable, and you never know when an animal will make a sudden move. Keep your camera on and your finger on the shutter. A quick reflex can mean the difference between capturing a fleeting moment, or missing it altogether.

4. Focus on the Eyes

There’s a saying in wildlife photography: “If you can see the eyes, you can see the soul.” I find this to be true.

Focusing on the animal’s eyes can create a powerful connection between the subject and the viewer. It brings life to the photo and can tell a good story.

Whenever possible, try to lock focus on the eyes of the animal.

5. Respect Wildlife and Their Habitat

Last but certainly not least, ALWAYS respect the wildlife and their natural environment. Keeping a safe distance not only protects you but also prevents stress to the animals.

Remember, we are guests in their world.

Wildlife photography is an art that combines technical skill with a deep respect for nature. Every shot is a new adventure, a new story waiting to be told. So grab your camera, do your research, be patient, and above all, enjoy every moment in the wild.

Happy shooting!