I WHOLEHEARTEDLY agree with Perry Little’s enlightening defence of foxes (Oxford Mail, June 16).
Her views are of paramount importance because, as manager of a wildlife sanctuary, she has had a unique opportunity to study these misunderstood creatures.
Sadly, man himself is the most destructive and murderous of all the Earth’s beings.
Think of the millions slaughtered through world wars or tortured to death in inquisitions and concentration camps. We must face the fact that there is a barbaric and primitive aspect to us which we disown and project, thus demonising the fox and other animals.
Only man is capable of cruelty, because he has the ability to empathise with his suffering victims. The ban on hunting was a most compassionate advance. If this coalition Government reverses it, then we shall be plunged back into the Dark Ages.
Gandhi once remarked that the moral calibre of a civilisation can be judged by its treatment of animals, both wild and tame.
GRAHAM BUTLER, Banbury Road, Bicester
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