On social media, predominantly an Instagram account I run (@pounceconservation), I've come across some pretty unpleasant people. I've gotten death threats, sexist and personal insults, and promises of sending me photos and videos of dead wolves (yes, some have delivered). I generally do a pretty good job at keeping a level head. I am not always successful. But one good way to deal with the haters, in any ambition you have, is knowing that people are only truly hateful and spiteful when they know you're right. If someone insults you personally, you've already won.
For the record, no matter how much you insult me, you're not going to change my mind about my research or my work. But the more you insult and barrage, the less credible you look. That's why I try to keep calm as much as possible.
I rounded up some of the best (basically, the worst) of the insults, threats, and just plain stupidity I've received along with some of my less-than-angelic response. No, the usernames are not blurred out. Words have consequences. Live with them. Go to the FAQ page to see a lot of these assumed statements about me answered.
For the record, no matter how much you insult me, you're not going to change my mind about my research or my work. But the more you insult and barrage, the less credible you look. That's why I try to keep calm as much as possible.
I rounded up some of the best (basically, the worst) of the insults, threats, and just plain stupidity I've received along with some of my less-than-angelic response. No, the usernames are not blurred out. Words have consequences. Live with them. Go to the FAQ page to see a lot of these assumed statements about me answered.
But not everything is negative. I also get positive comments, people who appreciate the work I do and more importantly value and appreciate wolves for their important role in the ecosystem. Remember that not every hunter hates wolves. Not every rancher hates wolves. Carnivore-human mitigation never has a straight answer for a perfect solution. It takes collaboration and the willingness of multiple groups and backgrounds in order to find a compromise.
Header photo: from a Facebook page called USA wolf hunting