It was in response to the idea that animals are useless.

Did anyone even bring up that idea?

Their nonfood utility is beside the point.

They have an extremely valuable nonfood utility. It's called "the ecosystem".

I think it's already been pointed out a bunch of times that humans are simply one more type of animal that populates the earth. Regardless of animals' behaviors there is absolutely no moral distinction between them. So no, thanks, I don't need any explanation from you.

What do you mean? It was a totally germane point. I would like to see you be mauled by a bear in order to humble you a little bit. I think you need to learn about humility since you believe that you are superior to non-human animals. You're not, that's all.

For reference, when I use 'animals' I AM referring to non-human animals.

I disagree. I think humans are superior. Top of the food chain, the smartest, etc. I don't put humans on pars with rats or livestock or any other animal.

As for being mauled by a bear, no thanks

and nobody is saying that animals are useless. Even aside from the fact that a lot of them provide very good meats. I'm just saying they taste good and I don't have any problem with killing livestock for food purposes.

For reference, you're using the word incorrectly.

I know - that's why I tried to correct you. Food chains and intelligence aside, all animals are exactly 'on par' with each other, morally speaking.

I don't blame you. It wouldn't mean anything if it happened, anyway. Just another animal-fight in which one maims or kills the other.

When 99% of people here 'animal' they don't think of humans. So keep in mind when I say animal I don't mean humans. I thought that was pretty much common sense, maybe others hear the word 'animal' and think of people. Not me.

Lol... Ok food chains and intelligence aside... Now why would you put them aside as if they don't exist? We are smarter and atop the food chain. What's the point in ignoring that?

We're not smarter, we just have a different means of communication.