Karen Neidrich

Beech Creek

I would like to respond to a previous letter to the editor entitled “Ban wildlife killing contest in PA” written by Silve Pomicter, of Chinchilla, Pa.

Do these people understand that hunters instill fear of humans into these animals when they are hunted? Without this fear of humans, children and the elderly (like myself) would be in danger when outside.

These wild animals are not pets. I live in the country. I know how these animals act. I use extreme caution when they visit. They may have rabies. They are devious, sly animals looking for trouble and an easy meal. Thankfully, the majority are afraid of humans (thanks to the hunters) and can be chased away. Some, like a fox and groundhog, carry rabies, others ticks.

Without the control of their population more would be infected.

The damage these predators (coyotes and others) do to other wildlife, such as fawns and song birds and also our domestic farm animals along with dogs and cats, is never mentioned by the people that want this ban. They think they are a kin to pets, but they are wild animals. They hunt and kill, sometimes very cruelly.

As for the remark that hunters supposedly shoot these animals in the leg so their dogs can tear them apart, I find these hunters remarkable shots. All the animals mentioned have small, thin legs and most would be running. That would be extremely good shooting. I would have to see it to believe it.

Because of these hunts these wild animals are reduced in numbers. They have less disease, are well fed and having the fear of humans (because of the hunters) makes them safer to be living around, especially for our children (who play outside).

Thank you, hunters!