For example, if one were trying to protect a species he might “hunt” to find it but not kill it. A definition of hunting is “the activity of looking thoroughly in order to find something or someone”. Obviously the type of hunting I am speaking of excludes “someone” (For the most part).

Hunting has an extremely long history; there is evidence that humans used animals up to 16,200 years ago. With language being invented hunting became a “theme” for stories and myths long ago. Even when animal domestication became popular the practice of hunting continued for food and garments as well as for trade.

People long ago did not have guns. Instead they used things like bows and arrows, rocks, spears and the atlatl (An early dart/spear throwing device). One type of hunting is known as “Persistence Hunting” and this is before weapons like the spear thrower or bow and arrow were invented. In this case a hunter would run at an animal (for example an antelope or a deer). The animal would easily outrun the hunter at the start but before the animal had time to rest in the shade the hunter would catch up. It went like this until the animal was too tired to go any farther.

The hunter would run up to the animal and stab it with a spear or knife. Obviously the hunter would need to be in perfect shape to do this. Believe it or not Persistence hunting is still practiced in some parts of Africa.

Since then hunting has changed significantly. Although it is still necessary for survival in some parts in others it is more for recreation. Today people hunt with dogs and high-powered rifles. The food does not go to waste and a limit is set along with some safety rules. There is also a hunter safety course people must take before buying a license. People today hunt all kinds of game ranging from rabbits to bears.

Varmint hunting is the practice of shooting non-game animals. (I.e.) No tag or license is required. Common varmints include rodents, coyotes and foxes.

Hunting has been going on for quite some time and many people feel hunters will not become extinct any time soon.