Keep deer wild and adopt cats

EDITOR: Toomany folks are feeding feral cats. All cats are susceptible to infections like rabies and Parvovirus.Feral cats can get fleas, ticks or rabies that can spread to humans or other animals. Feral cats may leave behind diseased feces.

UrbanWildlife Research Project’s Feral Cat Feeding Station Data noted, “A sign found on a feeding station, near the habitat of theWestern Burrowing Owl read ‘this is a humane project for 100 percent benefit of our feline friends’. But is it humane for the wildlife? Kibble was found in the scat of Raccoons, Gray Fox and Skunks andmany birds eating from the feeding stations.

The California Towhee and Oak Titmouse take the cat food back to feed their young.” This feeding may be affecting the natural cycles and health of wildlife and the catsmay be a minority at the feeders.

Feeding deer and other wild mammals is illegal and contributes to their domestication and their getting sick.

Deer bring ticks that carry Lyme disease into areaswhere dogs are walked, and children play.

No one does any wild mammal a favor by physiologically or behaviorally contributing to a change in their natural environmental conditions.

California Dept. of Fish &

Wildlife says, “Allowing deer in your garden or landscaping, or intentionally feeding deer, can be deadly. Wild animals naturally fear people, keep a distance, and will not bother you, if they remain truly wild. If they become accustomed to humans, their natural ways are ruined. That’s when conflict occurs.”

— Mary Rose Kaczorowski,

Fort Bragg

Editor’s note: Kaczorowski is a former staff member and current freelancer for the Advocate-News and Beacon.