Editor:
Regarding the town’s decision to get rid of the rabbit infestation, I wanted to bring an alternative perspective to this problem.
I am fully in support of the decision to cull these animals, and I know other Canmore residents who also support this action.
Rabbits (I refuse to call them ‘bunnies’) are non-indigenous rodents introduced into the area by foolish human actions. We are now obliged to remedy this for a number of environmental reasons.
The fact that they attract predators into town cannot be disputed. I have personally witnessed a number of coyotes in town with rabbits they have captured. The town is correct in trying to prevent predators coming to town.
Additionally, rabbits breed all year round and do not hibernate. They are not harmless. They will, in time, push other natives species out of their natural habitat. Witness the destructive nature of rabbits in places like Britain and Australia, where they have become a major pest.
If the rabbit protection lobby is looking for a wildlife cause to support, there are plenty more serious Rocky Mountain issues to be addressed.
David Anthony
Canmore
