In response to "Meck coyote sightings grow" (Feb. 9):

Ridiculous to spend all that money tracking coyotes

Seriously, $3,500 for coyote collars to track these animals? How are you going to trap them, and at what expense?

A bullet costs $1 and produces the desired result immediately. Then, check stomach/intestine contents at much less cost.

How foolish to spend that kind of money when you still won't be able to control the population. If you want to control the coyote population, "shoot 'em and leave 'em lay." Then we'll know what coyotes in your area are eating.

Andy Lewis

Statesville

In response to "Open some areas to hunting to help reduce coyote population" (Feb. 9 Forum):

Let professionals thin coyote population, not shooting public

The suggestion by Forum writer Alan Boles to allow hunting within Charlotte is dangerous. If coyotes are a serious problem then the city/county should hire professionals.

State law requires written permission to hunt on private land. What public land will we open? Parks, greenways, sports fields - I'll take my chances with the coyotes.

Coyotes and other critters face enough worries from the real danger in this city - man behind the wheel.

Craig Hobaugh

Charlotte

In response to "Judge tosses case seeking rights for orcas" (Feb. 8 CharlotteObserver.com):

PETA clueless; best to let captive orcas stay that way

I had to shake my head at PETA's lack of understanding of the very animals they seek to protect. I don't disagree with a ban on catching more orcas, but these animals cannot be released back into the wild. That was tried and they came to bad ends due to human contact. They will swim up to ships, small boats, even docks and can obviously inflict damage if they choose!

These whales will live longer, safer lives in captivity.

Perhaps a donation to your local animal shelter would be a better use of resources.

Jeffry Walters

Cramerton

In response to "Dogs from Stokes breeder brought to Charlotte" (Feb. 8):

Irresponsible pet owners perpetuate puppy mill problem

If you have ever purchased a Frenchton, Maltipoo, Yorkipoo or some other designer mixed-breed puppy from somewhere other than the breeder's home or kennel, you are contributing to the puppy mill problem.

Unscrupulous breeders are everywhere and a law will not stop them. Be part of the solution, not the problem. Be a responsible consumer.

Susan Boyer

Mooresville

Shine spotlight on academic scholarships, not just athletes

At this time, when we need students to stay in school and pursue higher education, wouldn't it be refreshing to report on local students signing for full academic scholarships, rather than all the hoopla given sports signings?

Umm, academics valued over sports... Now there's a concept!

Sandy Meggitt

Charlotte

In response to "A big worry: Israel hits Iran" (Feb. 9 Viewpoint):

U.S. interests must come first when dealing with Israel

It's high-time we begin to reflect on our unconditional support to Israel, and seek out what is best for America!

Thank you Trudy Rubin for making U.S. interests a priority over Israeli interests, which seems to be a challenge in the way we run our foreign policy irrespective of Democratic or Republican administrations.

The U.S. should continue diplomatic efforts in the Middle East. Strike a more balanced approach in the region and protect U.S. interest and stability in the region.

Mohammed Idlibi

Charlotte

In response to "Attack against Komen reeked of politics, media shares blame" (Feb. 9 Forum):

Before you sling blame, review history on Komen decision

Most people seem to forget Komen acted based upon an investigation started by a congressman - not proof of anything, just an investigation by a conservative congressman.

In the land of innocent until proven guilty, Komen made a rash decision that was deservedly reversed.

Edward Garland

Charlotte

Current politics bring to mind battle against 'Evil Empire'

During his tenure President Ronald Reagan succeeded in bringing the Evil Empire to its knees. What would he think today if he saw America suppressing religious freedom and making decisions for its citizens, rather then letting them do that for themselves? Who will free us from the Evil Empire?

Kim Thomas Purcell

Mooresville

Sick and tired of all these men weighing in on abortion issue

The bickering, accusations, and threats of eternal damnation which constitute the endless conversation about abortion have gone on long enough. It's long past time someone said this:

GentleMEN: You haven't a scintilla of an idea what it's like to be a pregnant female of any age, much less single and pregnant. Therefore, unless you are the father of the fetus in question and are fully prepared to assume the lifelong role of parent, sit down and shut up!

Mary Ellen Miller

Charlotte