Over the centuries, humans haven't just targeted each other in times of conflict: animals have often found themselves caught in the crossfire. Whether as "pests" to be eradicated, accidental casualties in human conflict, or targets of misguided punishment, animals have frequently been pulled into the fray. Sometimes they come out on top, but more often than not, they suffer, leaving ecosystems disrupted and new problems in their wake. And despite the lessons of history, we’re still at odds with nature’s creatures, proving that some lessons take longer to sink in.
Here are some of the most absurd moments in history when humans clashed with animals. Click through the gallery to get started.