Many Pennsylvanians will be appalled to learn that wildlife killing contests — a bloodsport comparable to dogfighting — occur right here in our state. In fact, Pennsylvania has more contests than almost any other state, with January and February being peak season.

In these detestable spectacles, participants kill native wild animals for cash, prizes or simply entertainment. This is unethical. It is also unsporting. “Competitors” often use high-tech equipment, including powerful guns and electronic calling devices. Readers identifying as hunters will likely agree that this violates the principles of a fair chase.

Those passionate about conservation and our native wildlife may already know that the contests do not align with scientifically based population control or wildlife management, but may even throw native ecosystems off balance by removing vital species from their habitats.

These horrific events have attracted significant negative media attention, including social media posts of participants grinning next to piles of dead animals. Many Pennsylvanians are outraged by this, prompting county and city governments — among them Pittsburgh, Carlisle, Bellevue, Sharpsburg, Braddock and Wilkinsburg — to pass resolutions or proclamations calling for a statewide ban.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission must follow suit and ensure that these contests no longer happen on Pennsylvania soil.

Christina Hoenig

Fox Chapel

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