Dear Editor: Rebutting the "Serial Killing" of Coyotes

Dear Editor,

To the individual who has an opinion on the "serial killing" of coyotes. You are clearly misinformed about the benefits that such an event provides. Why someone who lives four towns east of Whitehall has an opinion on a town they don't live in is like a democrat complaining about the conditions in a third world country but doesn't send money to help. If you don't like the way we do things in Montana, maybe you should move back to whatever state you came from.

A well-managed coyote hunting contest provides several benefits, particularly for rural communities that rely on livestock and land conservation. While these events can be controversial, it's important to consider their role in wildlife management, public safety, and economic benefits for small towns.

1. Livestock Protection and Predator Management: Coyotes are highly adaptable predators known for attacking livestock, especially sheep and calves. When coyote populations are unchecked, ranchers suffer significant financial losses due to predation. Hunting contests serve as a method of population control, helping to reduce the pressure on local farmers and ranchers.

2. Conservation and Ecosystem Balance: Despite claims that culling increases coyote populations, studies have shown that hunting can help regulate predator numbers when implemented strategically. Without population control, coyotes can overpopulate and disrupt the balance of other wildlife species by preying on deer fawns, small mammals, and ground-nesting birds.

3. Economic Benefits for Rural Communities: Events like these often bring in participants from surrounding areas, supporting local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and sporting goods stores. Additionally, if organized as a fundraiser, the proceeds often go towards youth programs, education, or conservation initiatives.

4. Encouraging Responsible Hunting and Ethical Wildlife Management: Hunting contests promote responsible firearm use, ethical hunting practices, and outdoor traditions that have been part of rural life for generations. Many hunters follow strict ethical guidelines, ensuring that animals are taken humanely and that no unnecessary suffering occurs.

5. Addressing Misconceptions: It is incorrect to assume that those participating in such events lack empathy or are engaged in "sociopath training." Most hunters and ranchers deeply respect wildlife and the environment. Predation management is a necessary reality for those living in rural areas, and these contests are one method of addressing the challenges posed by coyote overpopulation. It's the kids who weren't disciplined by their parents or who are told they can be any gender they want that grow up to be sociopaths.

While alternative non-lethal methods like fladry, range riders, and livestock guardian dogs can be effective in some cases, they are not always feasible for every rancher, especially small-scale operations. Coyote hunting contests provide an additional tool in managing predator populations while supporting local communities.

Thank you,

TAYLOR S.

Bozeman, Montana