Trapping Reform in Wyoming

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Number of Trappers for Animal Control, Fur Continues to Shrink

We’ve been hearing similar reports from several sources that fur prices are down, therefore resulting in fewer people trapping and fewer furs being sold. Trade issues with Russia and China, the depreciation of the Russian ruble and the Greek debt crisis have all contributed to lower fur prices.

“In 1977, Rob Erickson, an expert on suburban coyote control and removal, caught more than 200 red foxes in less than a month and used the proceeds from selling their pelts to buy a house. If he were to repeat this achievement in today’s market, he would make barely enough to buy a used car.”

“In part because of the reduced pricing of skins, the practice of fur trapping has continued to decline over the years, and Erickson said he doesn’t foresee it improving at any time in the near future.”

The intrinsic value to wildlife is much more than $2 for a pelt. Our wildlife should not be tortured and killed for the financial gain of one person. Getting to see wildlife in their natural habitat is much more of a reward than selling their pelts overseas. We hope to see the trend of fur prices continue to decrease and stay low as this will continue to discourage some trappers. However, there are still some who continue to trap for “recreation” purposes.

Read full article: Number of Trappers for Animal Control, Fur Continues to Shrink

Photo: Matthew Apgar, Daily Chronicle

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