Weren't they the ones who found out about the raptors in the first place? That would explain why they're low in supplies. If you're concerned, we can trade them for some supplies. It'd feel more official-like for them and less threatening, because then we're showing what we're expected in return instead of just offering assistance for, what they see as, no reason.
Which I know probably goes against your practices, but working around the situation can bring about the same results.