Tern Nests

I sincerely hope the U.S. Border Patrol demonstrates a higher level of compassion toward sensitive species during construction of its new fence (Aug. 16) than its past record indicates. Border Patrol agents have intruded upon nesting sites for the endangered California least tern at the Tijuana River mouth, disturbing parent terns off their nests and occasionally trampling on eggs. However, during discussions about these violations, they insinuate that their mandate is far more important than provisions of the Endangered Species Act.

KATHY KEANE

Statewide Coordinator

for Least Tern Monitoring

Long Beach