There is a planned "Coyote Derby" called Dog Days of Winter in Dillon, Montana this upcoming weekend of Jan 11th -13th. It is sponsored by Rocky Mountain Supply and includes various prizes awarded to the participants who kill the most or largest coyotes, determined by weight or a point system.
The mass slaughtering of these animals for thrills and prizes is unethical to say the least, and a far cry from traditional fair chase hunting. This bloodshed glorifies killing and violence and sends a dangerous message to our younger generations of hunters that life is of little value.
It is out of step with our current understanding of ecosystems and the important role each species plays. Studies have shown that over 96% of a coyotes diet are rodents, rabbits, other small mammals and plants. Our fields and pastures are overrun with holes and burrows created by these animals and are a hazard. In addition, the widespread disruption of the hierarchical order within wildlife family structures can create wildlife management problems. Far more tourism dollars are spent on wildlife watching and ecotourism activities than wildlife killing contests.
We must put an end to this cruel, pointless, unsportsmanlike event.
