Trappers in Wyoming: Opinions on Trends in Mammalian Predator Populations, Motivations for Trapping, and Methodologies

Abstract

Wyoming trapper numbers have declined 58 percent since the peak in 1979 (P < 0.001 ). In an effort to preserve the collective knowledge of long-term trappers and hunters of furbearers, predators, and trophy game species, i.e., mountain lion (Fe/is concolor) and black bear (Ursus americanus) , we surveyed 522 trappers and houndsmen by mail to assess their attitudes and opinions on methodologies used for trapping, motivations for trapping, and population trends for various furbearers, predators, and trophy game species in the state. Most trappers listed recreation (79%) as their primary motivation to trap, but income from fur sales (67%) and reduction oflivestock losses (54%) also were important motivators. Steel traps were the primary method of taking furbearers and were used by 89 percent of trappers. Common methods also included snares (48%) and calling and shooting (47%). Predators were taken primarily by calling and shooting (83%), steel traps (79%), and snares (58%). Using hounds (74%) was the most common method used to harvest mountain lions. Mountain lions, coyotes (Canis latrans), raccoons (Procyon lotor), river otters (Lutra canadensis), and black bears were all reported to have increasing population trends during the last two decades. Only two species, jackrabbits (Lepus spp.) and lynx (Lynx Canadensis), were thought to be decreasing. Our respondents wanted management actions taken to increase all species of Wyoming's fully-protected furbearers, i.e. lynx, wolverine (Gulo gulo), river otter, fisher (Martes pennantz), gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), and swift fox (Vulpes velox) as well as bobcats (Fe/is rufus). They also supported actions that would decrease populations of coyotes, spotted skunks (Spilogale putorius), and mountain lions. Trapping and hunting are important pursuits in Wyoming with >30 percent of the population participating in one of these activities. As legislative restrictions further curtail trapping and hunting, other strategies will be required to address management of furbearers, predators, and trophy game species.