Sorry, this described an INCREASE in biodiversity, just as the clearing of native peoples and others have often increased diversity. No evidence was presented that the increase in white tailed deer pushed any species toward extinction. Given that the disturbances introduced more open sunny areas, total species will usually increase. If white tailed deer are more abundant, this means more high quality protein available in culled animals. The total sustenance gained from the landscape will grow BOTH from ag on cleared land AND also from availability of venison. The potential benefits of clearing land to biodiversity is well known worldwide. Why was this missed?
Sorry, this described an INCREASE in biodiversity, just as the clearing of native peoples and others have often increased diversity. No evidence was presented that the increase in white tailed deer pushed any species toward extinction. Given that the disturbances introduced more open sunny areas, total species will usually increase.
If white tailed deer are more abundant, this means more high quality protein available in culled animals. The total sustenance gained from the landscape will grow BOTH from ag on cleared land AND also from availability of venison.
The potential benefits of clearing land to biodiversity is well known worldwide. Why was this missed?