Because this is a nature simulation, animals get eaten and plants die. But because it’s an Everyone-rated game, fights between animals are shown as a cloud of dust and then one animal disappears. Procreation is shown as affectionate actions like rubbing necks, nothing more.
Interestingly, predators in this game can be retrained to eat plants instead of animals, so if you want to spend your time making sure no animal eats another, you can.
SimAnimals is a wonderful nature game because it teaches by letting you learn through your actions. To play alone, you have to be able to read; but for younger children, the Wii version offers cooperative play for up to four players. This is a great way for a parent and child to go on an interactive nature walk together.