THUNDER BAY – Reports that a black bear has a jar stuck on its head are likely making all animal lovers feel that we must “do something”. Several years ago in Calgary a Mallard duck got his head wrapped up in a plastic wrapper from a six pack of pop.
For days a bunch of animal activists sought to “save” the duck. One of the duck’s would-be rescuers actually jumped off of a bridge into the Bow River at saving the creature.
Too often in our society, we attach human characteristics to both or cartoon characters and to animals. Then we get all emotional over them. We feel that somehow it is our role to save and rescue each living creature.
In Calgary, one of the reporters asked a homeless man who was living along the Bow River what he thought of the rescue efforts for the Mallard Duck. His response, “It would make a tasty meal”.
The black bear on Lambert Island might make a tasty meal too.
However it is more likely is that hundreds, if not thousands of dollars will be spent to rescue this bear.
Does it make sense? Not really, but how often today does common sense rear its head?
James Murray