Get exotic or go native: managing for 'exotic' wildlife, requires planning and practical use of native range

摘要

Have you noticed lately that everywhere you turn, you see leopard prints and zebra stripes? My sister's bed at college is painted in black and white stripes and covered with zebra striped pillows. Her roommate's room is decked out in leopard print from the bed covers to the curtains, and it seems every woman has a leopard print purse. The latest trend in jewelry is turquoise. Sweaters, dresses, and coats this season are fringed to resemble early Native American fashions. So, is it proper to get exotic or go native? The question is asked, "What do fashion trends have to do with rangelands?" The answer is, "Probably very little." However, the uses of rangelands go through trends just as fashions do. Rangeland usage varies throughout time based primarily upon economic factors. Unlike several decades ago when sheep and cattle provided sufficient revenues, in Texas today, hunting significantly adds to a rancher's economic returns. White-tailed deer have comprised the majority of the hunting income, but in recent years landowners have expanded their hunting base to include exotic game such as the Greater Kudu, Axis Deer, Sika, and Fallow Deer.