The world had to change and for some reason the prosperity of men always results in them taking ever more from wild creatures and places.

Humans could never accept the world as it was and live in it. They were always breaking it and living amongst the shattered pieces.

They have achieved a level of organization far beyond others of their species. Unfortunately, it is being used for destructive purposes at the moment. Don't look so surprised my dear, it's in the nature of the beast.'
'But these squirrels are not beasts!' Amber protested.
'Oh pish-posh, we are all of us beasts,' the professor replied lightly. 'The trouble comes when we try to pretend that we're not.

Curious how even a little time can alter so much.

[T]here is no folly of the beasts of the earth which is not infinitely outdone by the madness of men.

Fitz: Shall we get up tomorrow and go looking for a wild pig?
Nighteyes: I didn’t lose any wild pigs, did you?