Wild, but barely wary of humans: the Veluwe red deer Hubertus. Photo Maarten van der Belt/wildfotografie.nl The death of the iconic red deer Hubertus is deeply mourned by nature-lovers. Nevertheless, he will end up on the menu at the Hoge Veluwe nature park’s restaurant. Matthijs Schouten, retired WUR-professor of Ecology and Nature Management, on how this reflects our relationship with nature.
Hubertus is no longer among us. The most frequently photographed deer in the Netherlands -his impressive antlers and lack of wariness made him photogenic – was recently found gravely injured after a fight with a rival. Hunters put him out of his misery. The news of his death caused a wave of sad reactions and homages. When National Park De Hoge Veluwe announced that Hubertus’ remains would be served in their restaurant as is done with other animals that are shot in the park, the reactions intensified.
Ambivalent
Matthijs Schouten, a retired professor of Ecology and Nature Management, says Hubertus’ story is ‘exemplary of the ambivalent, and even somewhat schizophrenic, relationship between humans and nature.’ He clarifies: ‘It illustrates that humans will automatically feel bonded with nature if that nature comes close enough. This approachable deer was even named and became an individual. Having such a beloved creature end up on someone’s plate seems wry. However, we must not forget that “food from nature” forms the basis of our existence.’
Having such a beloved creature end up on someone’s plate seems wry
Schouten, who declines to eat meat on principle, understands how the idea of Hubertus steak and sausages appals people. ‘Must we really eat such an animal?’, he asks rhetorically. ‘The fact that this bothers people indicates that our relationship with nature is changing. We no longer automatically assume that nature is there to serve humans.’ Schouten is happy about this development. ‘Although this moral principle should not only apply to the iconic red deer, but also to the chicken we buy at the grocery store.’
