Story perspectives

Study Reveals Mammals Fear Humans More Than Predators

10/21/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A study from Western University finds mammals in Africa fear humans more than any predator, with 95% of species more likely to flee from human conversations than lion vocalizations.
Elephants and rhinos were among the species showing this heightened flight response.
Conservation biologist Liana Zanette notes this fear could affect prey populations over generations.
The findings suggest playing human sounds in poaching areas could help protect the Southern white rhino.

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Story summary

A study from Western University finds mammals in Africa fear humans more than any predator, with 95% of species more likely to flee from human conversations than lion vocalizations.
Elephants and rhinos were among the species showing this heightened flight response.
Conservation biologist Liana Zanette notes this fear could affect prey populations over generations.
The findings suggest playing human sounds in poaching areas could help protect the Southern white rhino.