Education Is the Key to the Coyote Problem

* I attended the meeting on coyote trapping, and I would like to clarify a few points brought forth in your story “Coyote Trapping Debate Continues” (March 24).

First, you mention that the conflict is between wildlife conservationists who oppose trapping and San Fernando Valley residents who say trapping is needed for protection. The majority of people who attended the meeting are Woodland Hills and West Hills residents who oppose trapping the coyotes. It is not residents vs. conservationists.

Second, you fail to mention the scientific facts regarding coyote populations that were discussed by various experts. Trapping will not resolve the issue of the coyotes’ alleged presence in our hillside neighborhoods.

Finally, you close by discussing the option of “nontoxic salt” to discourage coyotes from entering neighborhoods. You fail to mention that the board overwhelmingly agreed that more education of hillside residents seems to be a key to resolving this problem, not poisoning the coyotes.

I hope that any further articles The Times undertakes regarding this issue will include all information presented, not just an emotional account of a select few who are obviously ignorant of the facts regarding the coyote populations residing in our hills.

JANA K. SOMMERS

Woodland Hills