Visiting author explores the intersection of human and wild habitats
Education can prevent violent encounters between wild animals and humans, an author told USU freshmen during the Common Literature Convocation on Saturday.
David Baron, author of “Beast in the Garden,” delivered the convocation. More than 1800 attendees heard Baron describe the interaction of wild animals and humans near urban areas.
“You’ve got to educate both the cougars and the people,” Baron said.
People should know how to avoid dangerous animals and how to react during an encounter, according to Baron. He said wildlife control departments should take action to deter mountain lions that don’t seem to avoid humans.
A central theme of the speech, Baron said creatures in new environments can behave in unexpected ways. Baron applied the theme to freshmen students, encouraging them to try new things.
“To the class of 2016, I say welcome to your new habitat,” he said.
– steve.kent@aggiemail.usu.edu
The full version of this story will appear in the Aug. 28 print edition of The Utah Statesman.