We often think of social networks as a modern invention, but we are not the first to use them. The instinct to connect with others is not unique to humans – the natural world is built on a complex web of connections. Mother Nature’s lonely hearts don’t use dating apps, but they still find ways to get noticed - with a poop rather than a post! Birds, fish, and animals form social groups to avoid predators, ‘like’ their wild friends, and ‘block’ their enemies.
As humans, we have an inherent need to connect with the natural world. But for a long time, we have exploited nature’s networks – from fishing techniques that take advantage of fish shoaling behaviour to farming that relies on livestock’s herding instincts. Maybe it’s time for a different approach, one where we don’t just take but also reconnect with nature’s networks.
