Editor:
Readers might recall the previous two letters I have sent regarding the nuisance and dangers of raccoons in Ladner.
In 2009, after witnessing a raccoon I call Bruce kill a cat outside my bedroom window and having several encounters personally with these hostile varmints, I asked others if they had any run-ins. People were more than willing to tell me their personal stories and how they have lost their beloved cats or cut down trees to deter raccoons in their yards so their children and pets were safer.
In 2010, I sent yet another letter after coming across Bruce. We parted ways after I reasoned with him that although he was a threat, I could take him down with my car keys that I shook violently at him. I think I actually heard him laugh as he walked away.
Yes, I use humour because if I didn't I wouldn't go for my nightly excursions to take photos or run to the store. I know they are wild creatures and are carnivores, but I don't consider Ladner a "wilderness" where the sounds and sights of hearing a cat being eaten alive are unforgettable and very disturbing.
Now here it is two years later and I am writing a third letter regarding these dangerous pests. Last night I witnessed two raccoons killing a cat in the complex community area.
This hit me hard and someone somewhere is missing their beloved cream and mocha pet. I know this was an outdoor cat because I saw her almost daily wandering the street and was always worried about her because of the raccoons.
I told friends and family on my Facebook page about what happened. Not one response was in Bruce's favour: "Get a pellet gun. A slingshot would do it. Shoot it." And then the warnings: "Don't go near them, they will attack. They are fast so be careful. They are danger-ous."
Newspaper carriers have to take extra caution on garbage days. People cross the street to avoid a confrontation. Small dogs and children are at a high risk of being attacked. What will it take for the community to rally together to make this a safer place to live?
And as for them being nocturnal, well tell them that because I have seen them cross the street or sit on sidewalks during the day like they haven't a care in the world.
And I am not the only one. People are always complaining about the Bruces in their neighbourhoods. As a community, we should be looking at this serious issue.
I, for one, am tired of Bruce being the neighbourhood bully and getting away with his shenanigans.
Who is responsible for making our community a safe place to live? We are! So please make a noise and call animal control if you see them. Bruce, sorry buddy, but you've got to move.
Connie Senft (nee Pinder)
