Wild Hunters: Predators in Peril

Jean-Franзois Robitaille is an assistant professor of Zoology at
Laurentian University.

It was with great excitement that I started devouring this new book by
Hummel and Pettigrew. In a humble yet respectable format, the authors
have managed to assemble instructive information for general readers
about Canada’s perspectives on the management and conservation of
animal species, through case studies of the country’s large Felids,
Canids, and Mustelids. On a more technical note, this book updates the
reader on the meaning of such fundamental concepts as predation,
carnivore, vulnerable, threatened, endangered species, subspecies,
distribution ranges, among others. Relevant biological facts are
presented where needed to support the species’ designated status in a
synthetic yet accurate fashion. The political role of conservationists
(as well as that of naturalist painters) is depicted only when relevant
to the history of the species’ status. More important, the potential
political role of the reader is suggested through the subtle
demonstration of the importance of historic, present, and future public
opinion on government decisions. From the beginning of the book to its
appendixes, the reader is progressively presented with links to agencies
involved in, or required for, implementing the proper actions toward a
better conservation of Canada’s Wild Hunters. As a participant in the
preparation of the Report by the Royal Commission on Seals and Sealing,
I am pleased to see that the more technical Conservation Strategy for
Large Carnivores in Canada has been brought to the attention of the
layreader in such an attractive format. After reading the introductory
citations, contemplating the illustrations by Canadian artist Robert
Bateman, and glancing over the clearcut headlines, I get the impression
that this (positively) aggressive, yet artistic and constructive, piece
of work will give Canadians a sense of pride and remind us that there is
nobody except Canadians to decide what the unique future of Canadian
wildlife will be.