As subdivisions continue to replace farms, the amount of land inhabited by wildlife is dwindling. As a result, wildlife and man now need to share the same turf. Turf wars in which man always wins.

Deer are reported to have caused traffic accidents throughout the country and generally causing all kinds of other problems.

But the truth about deer is that they ruin vegetable and flower gardens. I think that people become crazed when deer consume their vine ripened tomatoes. Personally, I don't like it when they invade my property either.

Princeton, New Jersey has recently had its own deer fight. At least two lawsuits were filed concerning the means chosen to thin out the deer population. The upscale central New Jersey community hired a company from Connecticut to kill large deer numbers.

One, to say the least, very controversial approach that had been considered is called the net and bolt technique. In my opinion this is really disgusting and people need to evaluate whether this is necessary.

According to published reports, the deer are trapped in nets and then, while held down, killed with a device that fires a retractable bolt into their skulls.

The bolt is four inches in diameter and made from steel. Could you imagine being shot with something that size? Of course it kills, but what a terrible death.

There are reports of captured deer struggling so violently that they break their legs and antlers. Do we endorse such activity? What can be more inhumane?

Apparently, this method is used by slaughter houses. At least there, the animals are secure and the method works efficiently.

When the deer is struggling, we are told that the bolt often misses its subject or does not hit head on. It just makes the story even more cruel,more uncivilized. At least that is what I believe.

There are other forms of deer control: contraceptives, reflectors, simple fencing, to name a few. We are supposed to be a civilized and just people. How can anyone allow the pain and suffering that is associated with these net and bolt methods to continue?

This is not an anti-hunting column. Nor is it an anti deer thinning column. Rather, I am suggesting that we do not forget our obligation to avoid cruel and inhumane conduct. I believe this approach is just that.

If you agree read and learn more about the subject. Then, speak up if this is being considered in your community. Cruelty is never justified.

The information provided in this column is written by Stuart Lieberman,a practicing environmental attorney, and is for general information purposes only. It is not legal advice and should not be used in place of legal advice.

Stuart Lieberman, Esq., and IRED.Com, Inc., will not accept any responsibilty for any reliance on the information in this column or any damages whatsoever resulting from reading this column.