Friday, August
3, 2007, Page A14
Letter to the editor as published
I read with dismay that Metro is using a rather barbaric method, poison, to clear Metrorail stations of birds ["Metro Shuts 3 Stations Because of Dead Birds," Metro, July 30].
Poisoning birds results in unnecessary pain and suffering, leading to a cruel and inhumane death. Many organizations and governments use natural methods -- from sonic repellent machines to scarecrows -- to keep pigeons away.
It is promising that Metro will meet with the Humane Society of the United States to discuss alternatives ["Metro to Consider Other Ways to Get Rid of Birds," Metro, July 31]. I hope that Metro seriously considers alternatives to its bird problems and isn't simply trying to deflect another public relations disaster.
LUKE W. REYNOLDS
Washington