Automatic fire

Edward Camilleri (Firing Zone, August 14) accused hunters of shooting illegally on a Sunday morning in the summer months.

One might enlighten Mr Camilleri that the periodic shots he heard probably originated from vineyards which use small automatic cannons which simulate gunshots in an attempt to scare away local birds which would otherwise attack the precious fruit. Funnily enough, these birds also happen to be protected by law, but that is another issue. Vineyards are very common in the area mentioned by this presumably anti-hunting writer. Maybe next time he might take some interest and enjoy walking towards the periodic noises and I am sure he would get a surprise. One must also mention that during the summer, the rabbit hunting season is open, so nobody must conclude that any real gunshots heard are illegal. I would have wished to conclude this on a higher note but more words seem wasted on this matter.