In response to your recent article as well as similar articles you have published in the past, I object to the tone taken by the Thousand Oaks Acorn.

The slant of the article "Coyotes getting far too bold in Sunset Hills" is a very negative, alarmist portrayal of wild animals.

As polls show, many of the residents of this area moved here because of the open space and natural beauty of Conejo Valley. Since our growth into this area has reduced the areas in which the wild animals forage and live, we're seeing more frequent encounters with wild animals.

While it's unfortunate that Sunset Hills residents are uncomfortable in their open access areas with their dogs, I urge us all to be a bit more understanding of the dilemma we've created regarding these wild animals.

By moving into their natural habitat, we've limited their choices.

We humans, on the other hand, have the choice of walking our dogs in more public park areas that aren't frequented by coyotes. We have the choice of following the excellent guidelines provided by the Acorn to minimize our encounters with the animals.

Yes, perhaps we are giving up a bit of flexibility in our lives, but I, for one, think it's a small price to pay to enjoy this beautiful open space that surrounds us!

Acorn, you did a great service in providing guidelines to minimize our interaction with wildlife. I just ask that your headlines and article tones be more objective. Maryjane MacLeod Thousand Oaks