Our Wild Calling Summary

"Without a connection to wild animals, we not only become lonely but lose perspective on ourselves." – Richard Louv

1. Nature’s beauty inspires us to protect it.

A chance encounter with a wild animal can be transformative. The author recalls a memorable meeting with a black fox on Kodiak Island, Alaska. In the silent interaction, he felt a profound sense of connection. This brief yet powerful moment exemplifies how deeply humans can resonate with the wild.

When we see the beauty and complexity of other creatures, it can unlock empathy within us. Instead of seeing animals as separate or inferior, we start to relate to them as fellow inhabitants of Earth. Norwegian philosopher Arne Naess suggests that acting beautifully, rather than out of obligation, aligns moral choices with authentic inclinations, creating harmony.

Such appreciation motivates care and action. Empathy for animals leads naturally to a desire to preserve their habitats and protect them from harm. This deeply felt connection can create acts of conservation that don’t feel like a duty but a meaningful extension of care.

Examples

• The author’s lifelong memory of a stunning black fox encounter.
• Observing ground squirrels playing and surviving in the wild.
• Arne Naess’s philosophy of actions driven by beauty rather than guilt.

2. We long for connection not only with people but other species.

Modern technology fosters constant human connectivity yet leaves us surprisingly isolated. This loneliness, as some scientists argue, is compounded by our growing disconnection from non-human life – a concept ecologist Michael Vincent McGinnis calls "species loneliness."

Ancestors found meaning and companionship in animals, reflected in their myths and stories of talking creatures. These tales fostered a shared identity between humans and other life forms, reinforcing mutual dependence. However, the Anthropocene epoch, defined by humanity's overwhelming influence on Earth, marks a rapid loss of that interconnectedness.

This loss doesn’t have to be permanent. Some, like eco-theologian Thomas Berry, envision an "ecozoic era," where humans coexist with nature, blending technology and respect for the wild. Rebuilding bonds with animals and ecosystems could cure our loneliness and reconnect us to our deeper selves.

Examples

• Indigenous myths of animals as wise and communicative beings.
• Growing alienation resulting from climate change and environmental degradation.
• A reimagined future where technology aids rather than exploits Earth.

3. Anthropomorphism can both help and hinder understanding animals.

Historically, science rejected anthropomorphism – the act of giving animals human qualities. This view was epitomized by philosopher René Descartes, who argued that animals were emotionless "machines." Such beliefs enabled abusive practices like factory farming and animal vivisection.

Modern scientists now explore a balanced approach. They acknowledge shared traits between humans and animals, such as emotions or social bonds, while striving to understand each species on its own terms. Dogs, for instance, share social behaviors comparable to ours, yet experience life through their superior sense of smell.

By moving past caricatures of “talking” or overly human-like animals, researchers learn what truly makes species unique. This nuanced understanding allows us to better care for them and recognize the incredible diversity of life.

Examples

• Over 200 years of Cartesian views allowing exploitation of animals as resources.
• Research showing dogs’ dual reliance on social skills and acute olfactory senses.
• The detrimental effect of cartoonish animal education on children’s real-world knowledge.

4. Animals communicate if we listen carefully – and they talk to each other too.

Animals express themselves in complex and fascinating ways. A story of a wolf leading a man in Alaska reveals an interspecies form of nonverbal communication. The wolf used body language to protect its pack’s meal, demonstrating mutual understanding.

Emerging science uncovers similar intricacies in how animals engage with each other. Egyptian fruit bats, for example, “argue” through distinct squeaks about sleeping spots or food. Dolphins also use clicking sounds to form “sentences” and listen carefully before responding, suggesting advanced conversational structure.

Such findings suggest that language isn't uniquely human. Recognizing animal communication helps us understand their worlds and fosters respect for their intelligence.

Examples

• A wolf guiding a man away from its pack's feeding area.
• Fruit bats vocalizing over territorial disputes.
• Dolphins forming coherent “sentences” and even engaging with other species like beluga whales.

5. Different relationships with animals shape our worldview.

How we relate to nature varies widely. The Maasai people of Kenya fully integrate with the natural world, while urbanized societies often feel separated. Ecopsychologists identify three ways humans connect to animals: wild, domestic, and distorted.

Wild interactions evoke awe or fear, like seeing a lion in its natural habitat. Domestic relationships, such as owning a dog, create familiarity and joy. Distorted connections emerge when we exploit animals unnaturally, such as factory farming or zoo confinement.

The author introduces co-becoming, where humans and animals influence each other. Whether outsmarting a clever raccoon or bonding with a pet, interacting with the wild reshapes both parties and dissolves boundaries.

Examples

• Maasai people's seamless relationship with nature.
• A pet owner experiencing mutual affection with their dog.
• Indigenous Arnhem Land cultures rejecting separation of humans and natural elements.

6. Helping nature starts locally.

Change doesn’t require grand gestures; it begins at home. James Garcia’s experience trying to save a bird entangled in a fishing hook inspired him to protect his neighborhood's wildlife. Understanding his community’s struggles helped him shift from anger to constructive action.

Small, local efforts can make a big difference. People revitalize their gardens to attract insects, support wildlife rescue, or restore natural habitats. These activities not only help the environment but also foster stronger connections within communities.

By tending local ecosystems, others experience solophilia, Glenn Albrecht’s term for healing both oneself and nature by taking care of shared spaces.

Examples

• Garcia becoming an educator to teach children kindness toward animals.
• Community groups rehabilitating wildlife like raccoons and birds.
• Albrecht rejuvenating a barren Australian wetland into an animal haven.

7. The natural world holds lessons and stories for us.

For thousands of years, humans have learned from observing wild animals. These stories taught respect, survival, and interconnectedness. Neglecting those lessons brought us to the Anthropocene, but we can reverse that trend by actively listening to nature again.

8. Balance between scientific investigation and spiritual reverence is key.

Through modern research, we uncover animals’ immense intelligence and unique behaviors. Meanwhile, integrating spiritual approaches, like the ecozoic vision, reminds us to see animals as peers, not just subjects.

9. Acting beautifully brings lasting change.

Empathy-driven actions, like appreciating the beauty of animals, are sustainable because they align with our deeper values. By seeing the world this way, we focus on preserving life for its richness rather than obligation.

Examples

• Rediscovering ancient myths that celebrate animal wisdom.
• Communities rallying to heal local ecosystems together.
• Photography and storytelling being used to showcase wildlife splendor.

Takeaways

1. Spend time in nature to connect with wildlife and experience their beauty up close.
2. Take small steps locally, like planting wildflowers or advocating for sustainable practices.
3. Seek to learn about the behaviors and languages of animals around you, broadening your empathy and understanding.