It would greatly sadden me if either of Mr. Gorman's companion animals were to be eaten by a mountain lion ("Cambria does not have too many cats," Letters, May 19-26). I am also saddened that mountain lions are often shot due to ignorance and misconception. The fact is we have chosen to live in mountain lion habitat, and with precaution and common sense we can share this beautiful land quite peaceably.

Mountain lions hunt at night. Responsible pet owners keep their pets inside, especially after sunset when predators are active. Responsible pet owners do not feed wildlife. Those cute, cuddly little raccoons you invite to your door are not only mountain lion prey, but wild predators that can cause serious injury or death to your pets.

The recent shooting in South County was a tragedy. Usually, lions that venture near humans are young, inexperienced, and confused. If he had not been approached, he probably would have been happy to escape the situation.

In the years 1890-2004 there have been 15 verified lion attacks on humans in California, none in San Luis Obispo County. Six of those have resulted in fatalities.

The chances of a human being struck by lightning, killed by a spider ... a cat being hit by a car, a mountain lion being killed out of fear - do the numbers.

And please, put in the cat.

Deci Worland

San Simeon