Honoring the Hunt

Supported by archaeological and anthropological evidence, modern science posits that hunting played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of human evolution, influencing not only our physical attributes but also our social and cognitive capacities.

The shift in diet of our ancestors from plants and grasses to including more animal proteins and fats is a likely factor of how the brains of early hominins nearly doubled in size to what we see today in modern Homo sapiens. 

By engaging in cooperative hunting, these early humans necessitated the development of communication, teamwork and the ability to plan ahead. This led to the forging of stronger bonds among group members, potentially laying the foundation for complex human thought and social structures.

Today, recognizing the importance of being a respectful and ethical hunter continues to be vital in maintaining such a relationship with the natural world.  And in this digital age, it’s just as natural to want to share a photo from a successful hunt as it is important to remember that in doing so, we become ambassadors of such pursuits. 

As you’re preparing to take photos and pose with an animal in these final moments with it, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Be Respectful
  • This should go without saying, but it’s recommended to not sit on, stand on or straddle an animal. Respectful behavior reflects positively on the hunting community and helps counter negative imagery often associated with hunting and can foster a better understanding of the role hunters play in conservation.
  • This also demonstrates a sense of ethical responsibility. It acknowledges the intrinsic value of the animal’s life and recognizes that hunting, when done responsibly and sustainably, is part of a natural order.

• Natural Habitat
  • When composing a photograph, including the natural habitat — rather than something like a truck bed, for example — provides context for the harvest. It allows viewers to see the animal in its environment, offering a more complete and truthful representation of the hunting experience.
  • Depicting the natural habitat also emphasizes the importance of preserving these environments. It reminds viewers of the critical need to protect and conserve natural spaces for wildlife.
• Keep it Clean
  • You don’t have to give it a bath, but cleaning up an animal just a bit before taking photos with it reinforces the image of hunters as ethical, respectful and responsible participants while in the field.
  • Position the animal in such a way that entry or exit wounds are minimized from view. Instead of displaying splayed legs, consider positioning them beneath the animal for a more natural posture. Wipe away excess blood from the animal’s face, entry or exit wounds, and ensure that its tongue remains retracted to enhance the overall presentation.

• Muzzle Control
  • It’s a widely acknowledged principle that when handling a firearm, one should always assume it is loaded. This extends to any photographs involving firearms.
  • Ensuring your firearm’s muzzle is pointed in a safe direction is key to preventing accidents while displaying responsibility and competence.
• No Gun Racks
  • This circles back to the first bullet about respecting the animal that’s just been killed. If you’ve taken a big buck with an even bigger set of antlers, it’s best to not use them as a gun rack. Leave the firearm out of the shot or abide by the previous point about muzzle control and hold onto your rifle with care.
• Celebrate the Process
  • For many, the time spent hunting is a precious thing. It’s easy to put on the blinders and just go. Many of us bring our smartphones and grab a few pictures here and there, but if it doesn’t add too much weight to your pack, consider a disposable camera to document the journey. That way, once you get back home and the film’s developed, you’ll have something physical to hold and by which to remember the days, the friends and family you spent them with.

• Bonus Tip: Wear Your Orange (or Pink)
  • Last but not least, let’s not forget to wear your blaze orange or fluorescent pink. If you’re in plain clothes or camo, we won’t be able to share your wonderful images with the masses! 
  • In Colorado, hunters are required to wear at least 500 square inches of either blaze orange or fluorescent pink clothing above the waist while in the field. A matching head covering visible from all angles is also needed. Should a hunter’s daypack lack the required orange or pink, they are urged to use a cover to ensure the color is not concealed on their back.
  • Fun Fact: Some studies indicate that pink is more noticeable than orange among humans while being less detectable by deer. So, choose that next hunting vest accordingly.

Written by Ryan Jones. Ryan is a visual coordinator for Colorado Parks and Wildlife.