Humans as Threats or Passersby
Humans are often called the planet’s ultimate “super-predator,” capable of hunting, fishing, and trapping on a scale unmatched by any other species. But a new study from the Centre for Ecological Sciences (CES) at Indian Institute of Science reveals that wildlife doesn’t always see us as terrifying. Animals respond strongly to humans who pose a direct threat, like hunters and fishers, but they react far less consistently to tourists, researchers, or others who aren’t dangerous.
Behavioural Changes Under Threat
The researchers conducted a meta-analysis covering 30 years of studies across different species and ecosystems, focusing on three key animal behaviours: foraging, vigilance, and movement. These behaviours reflect trade-offs in daily life—watching for danger takes time away from feeding, while fleeing costs energy and access to food or mates. Animals exposed to lethal humans showed heightened vigilance and reduced feeding, acting as though they were under constant threat.
Non-Lethal Humans Often Ignored
In contrast, wildlife responses to non-lethal humans were inconsistent. Some species barely reacted, while others showed mild changes, suggesting that the perception of threat depends heavily on experience and context. “The short answer is: no, not always,” said Shawn D’Souza, summarizing the study’s findings on human fear factors for wildlife. This research highlights the nuanced ways animals assess risk and adjust their behaviour around humans.
