Traveller Urges Tourists Not to Feed Marmots in Ladakh

A video from Ladakh caused a debate on ethical tourism when a tourist was seen telling guests not to feed marmots for photos or social media reels. In the video, which has gone viral online, the man can be seen urging tourists that the animals should be permitted to live in their natural environment.

Many people come to the region to take pictures and generate content for social media, and often feed the marmots to persuade them to come out, says the tourist in the video. “Feeding wild animals may change their natural behaviour, make them dependent on humans and harm the local ecosystem,” he argues.

Several social media users have supported the request, commending the traveller for speaking up. Several people recommended that tourists should view wildlife from a distance, rather than try to interact with animals for images or movies.

Marmots are big ground squirrels that live in the high-altitude regions of Ladakh. They are very well adapted to cold mountain circumstances and live in burrows. Wildlife professionals have long advised tourists not to feed or bother them since human food can be harmful and continuous interaction with humans can dull their instincts.

Ladakh draws thousands of tourists every year for its beautiful surroundings and unique animals. There have been several occasions when governments and communities have urged tourists to be responsible travellers by obeying environmental laws, not littering, and appreciating the local animals.

The viral video has again brought to the fore the need to protect nature and ensure that tourism is not at the cost of animals.