Is recreational trapping falling by the wayside?

Is recreational trapping falling by the wayside? Vermont lawmakers made reforms to the practice just a year ago but already animal advocates are calling for more. A new proposal would ban the practice except in special circumstances. Advocates are pushing again to ban recreational trapping in Vermont, calling it inhumane. “Mainly for recreation, tradition, often for an intolerance for predator species like coyotes and bobcats, that’s our main concern,” said Brenna Galdenzi of Protect our Wildlife. Galdenzi says the longstanding practice of recreational trapping in Vermont can’t continue. “That is the problem with these traps that are indiscriminate by their very nature,” Galdenzi said. That’s why she’s supporting a ban on the recreational trapping of fur-bearing animals or nuisance pests across the state. Galdenzi says this will help protect all animals that call Vermont home. But lawmakers say the practice wouldn’t totally disappear from Vermont’s landscape. “Farmers would be able to trap these sorts of animals in defense of their crops or their livestock,” said Rep. Larry Satcowitz, D-Randolph, the bill’s sponsor. Last year, Gov. Phil Scott signed a law stating Vermont Fish and Wildlife must implement best management practices for trapping. It’s a law Bradley says was largely well-received by his organization, and he believes it should have a chance to take effect. But Galdenzi believes with the exceptions in place, this law would be a fair compromise.