Chapter 8: Trapping and Furtaking Basics
Introduction

The trapping of wildlife species for food and furs has long been a part of human existence. Since prehistoric times, man has utilized traps of one design or another to provide the basic needs for survival. However, in the modern era, trapping is more a tool of wildlife management and a form of recreation than a quest for food. Organizations and individuals opposed to trapping say it is unnecessary and harmful to the environment, but the opposite is true.

By identifying the best equipment and practices, wildlife management agencies should be able to manage furbearers effectively through regulated trapping. These practices will provide information that will help make traps more humane and trappers more efficient.