Many of our examples will use the larger, better-known species because their popular appeal enhance our presentation of the ecological principles. Little is known about most of the wildlife species in the world, and our endeavors to learn about them teach us much about who we are and the world we live in. Utilitarian values are characteristics of wildlife that make them useful to humans . Many wildlife fall into this category. All of our livestock and pets were domesticated from wildlife, and native animals may still play an important role in development of new breeds.
Wildlife are also important for medical purposes and for biomedical research.
Primates, because of their close relationship to humans and the relative ease of maintaining groups in captivity, are used for research in the cure for many diseases. Venom from venomous snakes is used to make antiventium and drugs that fight heart disease and pain. Bears and other wildlife that hibernate have extremely efficient kidneys, and research on these animals may lead to new cures for kidney diseases or important advances allowing prolonged space flight. Commercial values are qualities of wildlife that make them economically valuable. The exotic pet trade is another example of commercial use of wildlife.