I refer to the Reuters report on the killing of a Tibetan conservationist, Zhaba Duojie (South China Morning Post, November 17). I find this murder, which is the second killing in four years of a conservationist in the area, deeply disturbing. The killing is believed to be the work of poachers who operate in an area which is home to many endangered species. Currently their prey is the Tibetan antelope. The Government of China should bear some responsibility for this latest outrage and put more effort and resources into making sure the wildlife in the area and those who work to preserve them are properly protected. To put one man in charge of such a vast terrain is an invitation to ruthless poachers to do their worst. Protests should also be made to the Consulate-General of India in Hong Kong. The antelope's fur finds a ready, though illegal, market in India. Efforts should be made on both sides, by India and China, to end this trade. Two good men have died and thousands of beautiful animals have been machine-gunned to the brink of extinction in the name of fashion and vanity. It is time to stop this catastrophic waste of endangered species. Anyone concerned about this and other issues of animal conservation and abuse should contact Animals Asia Foundation (2719-3340). This organisation is working to improve the lives of animals all over Asia. ELIZABETH GURNEY Wan Chai
