Sir, - Ann Duggan (April 4th) suggests leaving food out for foxes. In the past five weeks I have lost five ducks, four silky hens, two bantams and two guinea fowl. Ms Duggan states that foxes are not harmful; neither were the fowl I lost. She also states that it is sad to see the fox go hungry. Well, it was also sad that I lost a lot of fowl to the fox. Many farmers in my area have lost new-born lambs as a result of foxes' visits.
Ms Duggan also says foxes are interesting to observe at night. I agree - the only difference being that the fox in question won't be returning the next night. - Yours, etc.,
David Carton, Kiltegan, Co Wicklow.