Wildlife Damage Management, Internet Center for
Date of this Version
October 1981
Abstract
I am pleased to have the opportunity to speak to you today on behalf of the Department of the Interior's Fish and Wildlife Service. I believe animal damage control is an element of a comprehensive wild life management program. It deals with population dynamics, mortality factors, and other management considerations. It is one of a variety of challenges faced by all wildlife managers regardless of whether they are dealing with big game, waterfowl, or even endangered species. Some question the role of, or need for, intensive management of wildlife populations in favor of a "let nature take its course" approach. These individuals fail to recognize that man is a part of the natural scene and has irreversibly changed it.