Friends, the problem is, within our circle, there are some very stupid, ignorant and vitriolic people who make a bad name on social media for us, regardless of our responses. When we see these types of people, we need to vehemently oppose their delivery while bringing honest and open discussion.
The right leaning position has been to quote facts and this largely worked, up until the last decade or so. Now, too many people care more about their precious feelings than facts when it comes to conservation (and other topics mind you). If you want examples of what we are dealing with, I urge you to watch this
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMcjxSThD54 . Remember, in our post-modern society truth doesn't matter.
Regardless of this, like Steve said, we need to start taking back social media with a united front. We need to provide ample answers and respectful dialogue, showing that we are the champions of conservation, that our sport is a valid and ethical way to procure meat and that our way of life is worth protecting. If anyone knows of resources or sources that we can compile valid research, I'm all ears. We can do this. We can preserve hunting as a way of life for future generations but we need to go with a united front. It'll be tough but it starts with each of us.
So I ask you, who today have you engaged with to explain why recreational hunting is worth having?