Dropping food into the water may seem harmless. It can attract fish, create an impressive photograph and make animals appear comfortable around people. But those are exactly the reasons responsible divers should avoid it. Wild marine animals should be allowed to find their own natural food. Feeding changes the encounter from observation into interference. Feeding can change animal behaviour Wild animals learn. If food repeatedly comes from divers, boats or swimmers, animals may begin approaching people in expectation of a reward instead of following normal feeding patterns. It creates unnatural concentrations Food placed in one location can draw animals together in numbers or combinations that would not normally occur there. A crowded feeding event may look exciting, but it does not necessarily represent healthy natural behaviour. Human food may not be appropriate Marine species have diets shaped by their physiology and habitat. Food designed for people may be unsuitable, while even natural-looking food can alter how an animal forages. Feeding can encourage unsafe approaches An animal that expects food may come very close to hands, pockets or equipment. This can create unwanted contact and increase the chance of defensive behaviour or accidental injury. It changes what other divers experience One group feeding wildlife affects the experience of everyone who visits later. Animals may begin approaching all divers expecting food. Natural feeding is more interesting Watching a triggerfish forage, a parrotfish graze or a turtle feed naturally teaches you much more about the animal than watching it take a handout. What if wildlife approaches you? Stay calm and avoid offering food. Maintain buoyancy and allow the animal to choose the distance. Do not touch or handle wildlife either The same principle applies beyond feeding. Avoid picking up animals, moving them for a photograph or handling them because they appear docile. Responsible diving is built from small decisions Maintain good buoyancy. Keep fins away from coral. Do not feed or touch wildlife. Do not collect shells or coral. Secure gauges and accessories. Follow local environmental rules. Phoenix Divers has more practical advice in its guide to reef-safe sunscreen and the article on responsible marine-life encounters. Leave wildlife wild The most respectful dive is one where the animals do not need to change their behaviour because you arrived.