Mailbag: Local wildlife control must be humane

It has come to my attention that another poisoning campaign aimed at eradicating squirrels is possible in Glendale.

This letter is to respectfully voice my objections to such an unethical and ineffective method of wildlife management and to suggest a more humane and logical way of dealing with the issue.

Poisoning wildlife is a temporary response to a problem that should be solved in a more humane, ethical and permanent manner. Poisoning threatens non-target wildlife and the environment.

Squirrels could die in their burrows, potentially contaminating the ground where grass and trees grow, and where animals and children play.

Citizens who use Glendale parks want to experience ecology of the area, not a sterile environment devoid of life.

The anti-coagulant rodenticide should not be used in public parks.

Squirrels have the natural ability to control their own population. They will produce offspring only if there is sufficient food, water and shelter to sustain them.

The first step to effectively control the squirrel population is to find and eliminate human-caused food sources.

When humans intentionally or unintentionally feed wild animals, they cause the animals to be dependent. This also causes an unnatural surge in the animals’ population.

The public should be informed as to why they should not feed wildlife. They must know that the city needs their cooperation.

Hopefully, any plans to poison squirrels will be put on hold and eventually eliminated, and other avenues of control will be explored.

To take drastic action for expediency is unacceptable.

A great man once said that the greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way it treats its animals.

Glendale is a great city and can do great things when more thought is given in developing humane and long-lasting solutions to a problem.

KANYA BUGREYEV

Glendale