In a controversial move, California has turned to sharpshooters in helicopters to hunt invasive mule deer on Catalina Island. According to the report, The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has approved a plan by the Catalina Island Conservancy to kill 2,000 deer, or about 40% of the island's population.

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The deer were introduced to Catalina Island in the early 1900s as a game animal. However, their population has since exploded, and they are now considered to be an invasive species. The deer are causing significant damage to the island's ecosystem, including overeating native plants and grasses. They have also been pushed into developed areas by drought and wildfires, where they pose a threat to public safety.

The CDFW has said that the culling is necessary to protect the island's ecosystem and public safety. However, the plan has been met with opposition from some residents of Catalina Island, who argue that the deer are an important part of the island's ecosystem and that the culling is inhumane.

Arguments in favor of the culling

• The deer are causing significant damage to the island's ecosystem.
• The deer are a threat to public safety, especially in developed areas.
• The culling is necessary to restore balance to the island's ecosystem.

Arguments against the culling

• The deer are an important part of the island's ecosystem.
• The culling is inhumane.
• There are other ways to manage the deer population, such as contraception or relocation.

The culling of the deer on Catalina Island is a complex issue with no easy answers. There are valid arguments on both sides of the debate. Ultimately, it is up to the CDFW to decide what is in the best interests of the island and its inhabitants. 

Our solution is pretty simple..sell tags to hunters. But, California doesn't think like the rest of us.

image via KTLA