WHAT WE’VE BEEN UP TO…
Letter sent to The Buffalo News
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We read with dismay the article about the fawn who was shot with an arrow. It’s clear to all that the agents that are responsible for killing the deer in the park and arresting people for feeding them wouldn’t be concerned about poaching, even of fawns. They do not have the interest of the deer at heart. It was cynical of the agent involved to say that they euthanize so the deer don’t suffer. Their brand of “euthanasia” is a bullet to the head.
Ms. Depczynski amazes me the more I read about her. She removed the arrow from the fawn and tried to get follow-up medical help by calling 911.
Instead, when the officer arrived, it was reported that he wanted to write her a summons for feeding deer! Was he interested in medically helping the deer? Was he interested in finding out who shot the deer? Was he interested in more broadly stopping the crime of poaching in the park? Sadly, NO. That a fawn had to suffer such agony was lost on this man who seemed focused on tormenting the woman who tried to help this baby.
We need to change wildlife policies and personnel to ensure that compassionate people are the ones with authority over both wildlife and the people who try to humanely help them.
If you would like to help turn things around for the deer and for their protectors, please e-mail us at: wildwatch@verizon.net.
Anne Muller
Wildlife Watch
New Paltz NY 12561
845-255-1400