Saying a Deer NEEDED to get out of the gene pool is the equivalent of saying they are on the HIT List. Something I find mildly repulsive in that you are now degrading the hunt to nothing but horns.
Have we reached the point where we can determine what is best for a species based entirely on one physical characteristic? Some people are naturals when it comes to physical characteristics, but fail when it comes to smarts. Some are prime examples, but are flawed with a type 1 diabetic gene.
It would be wise not to manage for one particular body part at the expense of the rest.
Addition: The one that NEEDED out of the gene pool, just may be the ONE that has the genetics to defeat CWD.
Have you ever raised any animals? At all?
The answer is in there. Nature gives the best an appearance. And its teh best tool we ahve to work with.
As noted I've SEEN how this helps herds.
Those that have not seen it may never see it I suppose.
Comparing animals to humans gets no where in my books. I've certainly seen family genes that never should have been passed along. But we can't do that to humans...
Yes, its a hit list for sure. Just like we cull out cattle that are not promising. I've not problem with it being a hit list. Its no different than targeting older does that are no longer producing when you thin the herd out.
I fail to see how this is simply about antlers. Its for the best of the herd, and along the way you end up with better antlers at times.
Just my take.
