Deer population may be a problem in the islands without natural predators, as discussed by Steve Ulvi in the Dec. 12 edition of the San Juan Journal. Increased hunting might help, although I am not a fan of hunting, but neither will I oppose those who choose that route down the food chain.

However, as to the suggestion of introducing a predator population to these islands (coyotes, bobcats) I can only say DON’T.

As a former suburban resident of SoCal, a major attraction to these islands is the lack of those critters.

They may reduce the deer population, but they will assuredly also reduce the population of family pets, bicyclists and small children.

Michael Devirian

San Juan Island