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Email: timberwolfinfonetwork@gmail.com
Email: timberwolfinfonetwork@gmail.com

ID: Ready, Set, Go – Wolf-Trapping Season Stars Today in Idaho

BOISE, Idaho – Snares and leg-holds are being set today in Idaho as wolf-trapping season gets under way. It’s the first trapping season since wolves were re-introduced, and zones are open in north-central and northern Idaho.

Trapping is a long-honored tradition in Idaho, says Daniel Gaillard, Rocky Mountain region representative for Defenders of Wildlife, and trappers are some of the most knowledgeable people about the state’s backcountry.

Gaillard says his concern about wolf trapping is unintended captures.

“It’s the only place in the Lower 48 where wolf trapping by the public is overlaying with habitat for some threatened species: the grizzly bear and the Canada lynx.”

Not just anyone can set a trap for wolf season, though. Gaillard says trappers have to be licensed by the state, and the Idaho Department of Fish and Game is working to educate trappers so they can better target wolves, and abide by ethical and safety guidelines.

“They have classes required for any trappers that want to go out and trap wolves. In those classes, they do address these issues.”

Gaillard says government agency wolf trapping has accidentally snared wolverines and dogs.

Details on wolf hunting and trapping in Idaho are online at fishandgame.idaho.gov.

Deb Courson Smith, Public News Service – ID

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