Wrong target lined up in the war on vermin

FERAL or stray cats are now considered ‘fair game’ by shooters. Many people in rural areas welcome these cats as they keep down the rodent population.

But the shooters appear to have little regard for this vital service. They would allow rats to run riot, to the detriment of the farmers they claim to be supporting in their ‘war on vermin’.

The problem, from the shooter’s point of view, is that cats pose a threat to pheasant-rearing pens. This perceived menace is taking precedence over the proven track record of cats - domestic and feral - in keeping rodents at bay.

The gun lobby’s concern for pheasant welfare rings a bit hollow, given that gun clubs are in the business of rearing these wild birds for the sole purpose of blowing them to pieces.

There are groups and individuals who specialise in removing feral cats from hotel grounds and factories and humanely relocate them elsewhere, after spaying or neutering them. Gun clubs could seek the advice of such dedicated people.

John Fitzgerald

Lr Coyne Street

Callan

Co Kilkenny