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Refers to all
non-domesticated plants, animals, and other organisms.
Domesticated organisms are those that have adapted to survival
with the help of (or under the control of) humans, after many
generations. Domesticating wild plant and animal species for
human benefit has occurred many times all over the planet, and
has had a major impact on the environment, both positive and
negative.
Wildlife can be found in all ecosystems. Deserts, rainforests,
plains, and other areas—including the most built-up urban
sites—all have distinct forms of wildlife. While the term in
popular culture usually refers to animals that are untouched by
human factors, most scientists agree that this wildlife around
the world is impacted by human activities. Many wildlife species
have spiritual significance in different cultures around the
world, and they and their products may be used as sacred objects
in religious rituals. For example, eagles, hawks and their
feathers have great cultural and spiritual value to Native
Americans as religious objects. |
