Is the “yoink man” style of influencer acceptable? I’ve been reflecting on this after hearing about a recent American influencer who took a baby wombat from its mother, which really got me thinking about the whole “yoink” trend and others who do similar things for their videos.
I used to find it amusing, but now I’m questioning whether it’s ethical to grab wild animals for the sake of content, unless the situation involves invasive species. What do you think? Is it okay to disturb wildlife just for the sake of making videos?
The actions of influencers like “yoink man” raise important ethical questions about wildlife interaction for entertainment. While capturing the attention of followers is a crucial part of influencer culture, it’s vital to prioritize the well-being of animals over viral content. Taking a wombat baby from its mother for a video not only risks the health and safety of the animal but also disrupts natural behaviors and can contribute to stress for both the animal and its mother.
Unless the intent is to rescue an animal in danger or address an environmental issue, engaging with wildlife in such a manner often crosses an ethical line. Promoting appreciation and understanding of wildlife should be prioritized over sensationalism. It’s important for influencers to consider their impact on both animals and ecosystems and to encourage responsible behavior and respect for wildlife. Conversations like this can help raise awareness and promote more ethical content in the influencer space.