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Exploring how observing animal behaviour reveals deep insights into human existence, adaptation, and survival.
Nature, including animals, has been inspiring and guiding us humans from the very beginning of time. Every invention, big or small, has been fuelled by Nature and her ways. As a nature and wildlife photographer, I have keenly observed animal behaviour and have constantly been educated about things beyond common sense. I have often found the simplest solutions to the most complex problems by simply allowing nature to teach me her ways.
If we go back to the early days of human evolution, we were mimicking animals and learning the most efficient ways to get tasks done. The science behind it may have been discovered much later, but the foundation came from watching the animal world. From choosing the quickest, safest path to a destination to ensuring that humans didn’t eat poisonous foods, every bit of knowledge came from observing the behaviour of animals in the region. Their impeccable architectural skills, like that of intricately designed ant colonies, have inspired human dwellings for generations. Even today, animal behaviour continues to spark human innovation.
Social structures seen in animals, such as wolves or other pack-dwelling creatures, were also observed and replicated by humans. Watching these animals and the dynamics within their groups helped us understand the importance of structured living and the strength that comes from unity. No species is superior in intelligence, but some have walked this planet longer and have gained a larger store of knowledge. Both humans and animals have learnt the importance of adaptation, which is one of the main reasons we’ve thrived through the ages.
There are countless legends of greats being inspired by animal behaviour. For instance, the story of King Bruce and the gritty spider teaches perseverance and hope. Watching bees tirelessly contribute to the planet’s balance while remaining humble teaches us lessons in hard work without seeking recognition. The comparisons can go on endlessly, but what sets humans apart is our ability to improvise on these tried-and-tested methods used by animals and tailor them to our specific needs.
Years of observing animal behaviour have deeply influenced my love for nature. Understanding their way of life has shaped my perspective on everything. I have been inspired by their grit, selflessness, love, mutual respect, and their ability to coexist. Their struggles for survival have often made me realise how trivial some of our challenges are in comparison.
Travelling and witnessing the vastness of nature has made me aware of how minuscule we are in this immense world. Yet, it has also made me realise that even the smallest contribution from us is essential to leaving behind a better world for future generations. In doing so, nature has taught me the importance of purpose.
There is always something to learn from the wild, and we just need to look for it in the right places. Animals and humans are interlinked in more ways than just behaviour, each playing its part in maintaining the planet’s balance. The mysteries of our complex, beautiful world are still waiting to be solved—and perhaps, animals hold some of the answers we’re looking for.