Ups, downs, highs and lows abound in the trapping world today. Let’s take a look at some recent trapping news stories.
New York Fisher Trapping Changes
Trappers in western and central New York will enjoy a new, six day trapping season for fisher next fall. Expanded fisher trapping opportunity results from the species’ population growth and expansion in recent years. Unfortunately, trappers in the north will see a reduction in the length of the fisher trapping season. Read more here.
Rapid City Considers Trapping Ban
Rapid City, South Dakota is growing, which means more human-animal conflicts, and unfortunately, more folks who have issues with trapping. After complaints from a citizen about a trapper operating within the city limits, it looks like the city will ban trapping. Strange and sad for a place like South Dakota. When I first drove across the country, I distinctly remember a nice billboard on the highway announcing that animal rights activists weren’t welcome there. Oh well. Read more here.
With the recent lower fur prices, fewer people are trapping otter in Illinois. The state is one of several that recently expanded the opportunity to trap otters due to population recovery: a great conservation success story. Looks like otter populations will continue to expand this year. Extra points to the Daily Journal for quoting Trapping Today in the story – thanks Robert! More here.
It’s Idaho’s turn to defend trapping rights in the Canada lynx fiasco. We’ve been through this before – many times. In my home state of Maine, trapping has been completely turned upside down due to a lynx lawsuit. Animal rights groups have figured out that though they can’t ban trapping outright, they can use the federal Endangered Species Act and the legal system to restrict trapping.activities where lynx reside. It started in Maine, and has reared its ugly head in Minnesota, Montana, and now Idaho. Here’s more.
Feel-Good Trapper Stories
Finally, how about a couple of nice trapper stories to brighten things up a bit? Follow Bill Swan from Tennessee and Dan Tempel from Alaska as they do what they love in the great outdoors.
Learning About Trapping – A Dying Tradition
Trapper Combines Backcountry Skills, Mechanical Know-How
Have a great week. And please consider buying my Fur Guide. My kids need to eat 