To the Editor:

In America on is presumed innocent until proven guilty unless a wolf is involved. For nearly 300 years a bounty on wolves existed throughout the country. Once the wolf was extirpated, livestock depredations ended and big game flourished.

Since the Canadian wolf was introduced and rapidly spread in some Western states, livestock have been killed and elk and moose populations have been decimated.

According to armchair experts, wolves will not harm humans. However, animals the size of moose and buffalo are prey to wolves and sometimes to only a single determined wolf.

Those who believe in yelling and pepper spray, by all means use it if a wolf comes charging in. If a firearm is used in defense and you weren’t there, then your opinion does not count for much. The person that felt they were in danger and the intent of the wolf is all that matters.

When in danger, when in doubt, run in circles, scream and shout. Unless you have a gun and use it effectively.

Dave Traylor

John Day