Monday 20 March 2023

Let Them Eat Venison?

A lack of predators (like lynx and wolves) has resulted in deer populations destroying ecological balance in many 'wild' UK habitats. Venison (deer meat) is a healthier option than, for example, beef and pork. It's now claimed that, adding venison to the available options in UK food banks, can simultaneously help combat the 'cost of living crisis' and that deer problem (https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/mar/17/deer-destroying-habitats-venison-uk-food-banks). There's nothing wrong with 'poor' people getting access to venison. Venison is, however, a red meat (people are encouraged to eat less of these) and can be relatively costly to cook. There's also nothing wrong with having people to effectively take on the role of the missing predators. There is, however, a slight concern that this will simply encourage deer farming. Farmers might also be tempted to increase deer populations, resulting in more environmental damage. One should also note that some of the deer species in the UK, are not actually native to these isles.

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What's In a Critter's Name? 23. Armadillo

The name 'Armadillo' is simply derived from a Spanish word, meaning "little armoured one".