Nasty pigs
From Anne Gwynn Sir: While sympathising with Barry Unsworth's problems in Umbria (`They even kill cats', 18 November), here in Piemonte we have more cause to back our local hunters. Their main quarry is becom- ing a menace, not only to farmland but also to hapless motorists.
The `cinghiale' (wild boar) population has increased alarmingly and the short hunting seasons will not reduce their numbers enough. The beast is a cross between the true wild boar and escapees, a porcastro'; it is larger, heavier and has the impact of a mini- rhinoceros on a vehicle. I know, as I had a close encounter with a specimen which decided to cross the road two metres in front of my car last month. We both got off lightly (according to the locals) — the front bumper had to be replaced and I presume the animal had a sore backside. Had I been with a pas- senger I might have risked stopping, but con- versations with local hunters have taught me that wounded animals, or those with young, are extremely nasty — cattivi — and the best policy is to leave well alone. They can charge, lift cars with their tusks, and inflict horrible wounds on any dogs unlucky enough to get in their way.
Again, last Sunday, another large boar was killed on the same road and duly carted off to await veterinary inspection in our local municipal hall. Local reaction was scathing — far better to get help and pre- pare a good stock of salami and stew for the winter. I quite agree. I much prefer wild boar accompanied by polenta.
I have great respect for those who hunt them. However, I wonder what the Blair/Foster camp would do if their lobby was antiporcine, not antivulpine? Go on, Tony and Mike, cuddle up to a piggy-eyed monster with tusks and see what happens!
Anne Gwynn Salussola, Italy From Mr Tom Troubridge Sir: Barry Unsworth can count himself lucky that, in Umbria, his property is invad- ed only during the shooting season. When the proposed Right to Roam legislation is passed in this country, we will be able to enjoy the day-and-night presence of poach- ers throughout the year, with only outdated and almost unenforceable poaching laws to. protect us. The police, like the carabinien, already give minor rural crime a low priori- ty, and are hardly likely to take much notice when a poacher's lurcher kills a cat.
Tom Troubtidge
London SW10
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