It is shocking that in 21st century, environmentally enlightened Malta, the authorities condone the licensed killing of the local wild rabbit (The Sunday Times, June 1). This depleted local species is on the brink of disappearing, a fact conceded by the hunters' federation itself, admitting that rabbits were not "in abundance". The practice of hunting is necessary for basic survival, the control of pests and the environmental damage caused by the overpopulation of a particular species. In the local context, wild rabbits hardly fall into this category any longer; however, I stand to be corrected by scientists who have studied the matter. Rabbits are hunted for the thrill of the sport. Anyone who has had the privilege of experiencing chance sightings of these elusive, timid creatures, as I have, must undoubtedly be appalled at this "new practice" - licensed destruction being permitted by the environmental authorities. The thrill is in catching a glance and seeing the creature hop away, not in shooting it dead! What will we destroy next?

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