I would like to thank Mayor Nils Jensen for conducting an open meeting on the “deer problem” on June 12. This is what should have happened at the Capital Regional District level a year ago, as was pointed out by more than one speaker.
Deer have been migrating into Oak Bay in recent years as they have been losing their natural habit, in what used to be more rural areas of the CRD.
People want to see the deer removed, but one topic was not touched on: the method of killing or, more politely, population reduction.
The clover trap/bolt gun is not humane and is used in slaughter houses for domestic animals held in restraints, much different from a wildly thrashing live animal, thrown down and held by force while someone puts a bolt gun to her head and hopes he gets it right.
A wildlife biologist spoke about a humane alternative, a contraceptive for animals called SpayVac, which could be used in a pilot project. It would put Oak Bay on the map as being a compassionate, forward-looking place, as opposed to a place with a medieval mentality no longer controlled by thinking human beings.
With regard to the mothers who spoke out vehemently about the loss of their gardens to the deer and the inability of their children to walk barefoot on the grass, why not get a little dog for the children? They would love it, it would teach them about kindness to animals, and no deer would enter their yard. Deer stay away from dogs. The only downside might be that Mom might have to pick up the dog feces.
Val Boswell
Saanich