Expert warns against harmful backyard habit that can hurt animals: 'It's a serious issue'

Many people enjoy tossing treats to animals in their yards, thinking its harmless. However, an environmental educator has highlighted the dangers this behavior poses to both animals and humans. The Simple Environmentalist shared a detailed video on YouTube explaining why feeding wildlife can lead to serious problems.

The video comes at a time when outdoor encounters with wild animals are becoming increasingly common. The creator speaks directly to viewers about the negative consequences of giving animals human food.

"Even if it seems minor, like feeding chipmunks, it can make wildlife aggressive, which becomes a serious concern with larger animals such as bears," she explains. Wild animals may also become sick from consuming food not meant for them, and some may stop seeking food on their own.

"Animals can grow dependent on humans, which makes them less likely to hunt or gather food themselves. This can be particularly problematic during hibernation, when they need to have enough stored food to survive," the video notes.

Leftover scraps can be just as dangerous. "Even discarded items with fruit stickers or other litter can make animals ill if eaten," she adds.

This issue also presents risks to humans, especially when animals begin to associate people with food. The problem is not limited to North America. A viewer shared an experience from New Zealand: "During a four-day hike in a national park, birds called Weka, so used to human feeding, attempted to steal energy bars, unzip backpacks, and even peck at sleeping bags. It was astonishing."

Another comment highlighted enforcement difficulties: "Feeding birds is illegal here, but people still do it constantly," the person wrote.

The video serves as a reminder of the unintended consequences of a seemingly innocent habit, urging people to think twice before feeding wildlife in their backyards.

Author: Benjamin Carter