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DEBRA MUCCI is forever on the lookout for wild animals who may need help, especially in her neighborhood. Unfortunately, it doesn’t take long for her to find them. Debra doesn’t mince words when she enlists the support of those who can help achieve permanent change. Her letter was emailed to: County Executive, Aileen Gunther, NY Assembly Member; Congressman Patrick Ryan, parks@orangecountygov.com Sean Patrick Maloney; the DEC; and Bridget Fahey of the Fish and Wildlife Service.
The subject line read:
Fishing Line in Thomas Bull Memorial Park Killing Wildlife
Debra wrote:
Good Afternoon
I am writing because I just took a robin off of a bush that was caught up in fishing line. Its leg was broken so badly that the foot was twisted in the opposite direction and the line cut clear to the bone. The robin must have been there for some time as he was gasping for air and appeared exhausted. The bird was finally cut loose and took off. Unfortunately it will die.
While I was there I also noticed fishing lines hanging from a tree near the lake! It is obvious to me that people have no idea what they are doing but are allowed to fish anyway.
You may not have noticed, but there are fewer birds than normal this year, and now one robin and perhaps her clutch of eggs–are dead due to ignorance and a total disrespect for wildlife.
I feel that nothing is being done to check the lakeshores for fishing line. Last year, my dog and I were walking along the lake and she got caught up in fishing line! Thank God that turned out okay or you would have a lawsuit on your hands!
I spoke to several park employees, as well as the person in charge at Thomas Bull Memorial Park, but came away with the knowledge that no one cares!
As a tax payer and someone that cares about our wildlife, I would like to have park employees scan the lake area for animals caught up in fishing line on a daily basis as they have to empty the trash cans in that area anyway. This is not the first time I have come across this situation.
I am asking for you to intervene and do something about this situation. There is no reason for animals to die unnecessarily.
By the way, is anyone checking for fishing licenses?
Sincerely,
Debra Mucci
To see how to remove fishing line or monofilament, visit:
catchalure.com/blogs/news/cmon-bro-dont-leave-me-hanging