Potential of Wildlife as a Protein Source

Abstract

Wild animals have consistently been used as a protein source throughout man's evolutionary history. In southern Canada they are utilized as a recreational as well as a protein resource, whereas in much of northern Canada they are primarily considered as a source of protein. More consumptive use of wild animals as a protein source could be contemplated if lands useful to wildlife were released from other uses. Wild animals are efficient users of native vegetation and they can also adapt to man-modified habitats. They cause little, if any, environmental damage when harvested to control population densities in the absence of natural controls. Wild animal protein should be considered a part of the national meat supply but its potential has not been fully realized. There is a growing trend in North America to use native and imported wildlife as a protein source, primarily through the use of captive or captive-bred stock. Copyright © 1975. American Society of Animal Science. Copyright 1975 by American Society of Animal Science.