When deer overpopulate, they forage certain trees and plants out of existence. This affects birds and other animals. Deer arrived in Minnesota only after the destruction of the original white pine forest and have been prey ever since. I’ve hit many with my car but would much rather harvest them responsibly.
For me, it’s about respect. Hunting is deeply personal, even spiritual. You must only take shots you think you can make and avoid leaving an animal in pain. It is good practice, I think, to thank an animal that gave its life, and to treat its body with reverence. If you don’t feel like firing the rifle, or shooting the bow, you don’t have to.
The biggest appeal of hunting to me is the sense of belonging, not only with fellow hunters, but with nature as well. Humans evolved as part of the natural world, observing the seasons of both hunting and gathering. Another tradition suggests that “to everything there is a season,” and I find that marking time through ritual helps me navigate an otherwise chaotic world.
The earth spins, the animals move, and we are part of something much bigger than ourselves. Mazurek calls this weekend “the biggest and best holiday in the state of Minnesota.” Celebrate however you wish.