On Nature's Terms: People and Predators Co-Existing in Harmony 2001
Distributed by Bullfrog Films, PO Box 149, Oley, PA 19547; 800-543-FROG (3764)
Produced by John de Graaf
Directed by John de Graaf
VHS, color, 25 min.
Jr. High - Adult
Bioethics, Biology, Environmental Studies
Date Entered: 11/09/2018
Reviewed by Todd Hannon, Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, Portland, ORHistorically, humans have had a tendency to view predators as a threat or a nuisance. Coupled with the development of wild lands, this perception has resulted in declining predator populations. On Nature's Terms highlights the critical role carnivore species play in a balanced ecosystem. Habitat fragmentation is identified as a significant threat to predators. Biologists, ranchers, hunters and activists provide cogent testimonials describing how we can begin to seek balance in human-predator coexistence. The ecological, economic, and ethical dimensions of conservation are examined.
The production of this documentary is very well done, but its objectivity is compromised by a failure to present conflicting viewpoints. Despite this shortcoming, On Nature's Terms is recommended for academic and high school libraries.