Humans have long been top predators, hunting and changing animal behavior on a massive scale. But a recent study led by the Centre for Ecological Sciences at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) shows the story is more complex. Published in Ecology Letters, the study reviewed 30 years of research on how wildlife respond to humans. It found that animals strongly fear humans who hunt or kill them, becoming more alert and feeding less. However, animal responses to non-lethal humans like tourists or researchers are weaker and vary widely. "The short answer is: no, not always," said Shawn D’Souza, lead author and PhD student at IISc. The study also noted that human-built areas such as roads and settlements can sometimes reduce animal alertness because predators avoid humans, making nearby areas safer for some prey species. Additionally, cleared areas near roads attract grazing animals, though they face risks like vehicle collisions. The researchers focused on changes in foraging, vigilance, and movement, key behaviors that affect animals' survival and energy. These findings support the "risk allocation hypothesis," where animals adjust their fear based on how dangerous or predictable the threat is. When danger is high and constant, animals stay cautious; if risk is low, they relax. The study also suggests these behavioral changes can ripple through ecosystems, altering predator-prey dynamics. Kartik Shanker, co-author and professor at IISc, said limited culling could reduce wild animal entry into human areas more effectively than other methods. The researchers emphasize the need for more studies, including long-term and experimental work, to understand if animals are simply adapting or evolving in response to humans. The study was published on February 17, 2026.