SIR:This message is particularly for the crow shooters, both legal and illegal.
I would speak to you personally of my concern, but I don't know who you are. The intent of this letter is not to speak for or against the shooting/killing of crows in rural areas. I am personally aware of the problems being encountered within the urban centre of Chatham.
My concern has been heightened, now that the public has finally been informed that yes, live shooting is taking place within the confines of the city limits.
I have real fear for the lives and future of the many, many owls living in our city. Are you aware that the owls are active (flying) at the very same times the crows are leaving or coming into the.city - sunrise or sunset? Are you aware there have been sightings of a rare owl in the very same neighbour hood, where shootings took place last week - in the area of the CAW Hall? Owls have been calling Chatham their home long before you and I were born. Can you imagine the stress they must be under now - "feeding time" has now become "shooting time?" Breeding and nesting times for many owls begins in March. I wonder will the year 2000 see any baby owls in Chatham?
Also, are you aware that southwest Chatham is home to a very unusual, rare, partly-albino crow? This bird is breathtaking to see and to watch. What a pity if he is shot and killed in his "safe" environment?
Chatham's tree-lined streets and gardens are year-round home to a marvellous variety of birds. With spring around the corner, will it be "Nest In Peace" or "Rest In Peace?"
MARTITA WOODS