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Stop trapping in New Mexico – make New Mexico public lands trap-free

Ending Trapping in New Mexico
While neighboring states and roughly 80 countries have banned trapping on public lands, New Mexico persists in condoning the cruel practice despite extensive public outcry. Guardians and our partners are working on the ground across the Land of Enchantment to make New Mexico’s public lands trap-free.

New Mexico Trapping Incidents Map

Traps on public lands are a statewide problem requiring a humane statewide solution.

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Why Trapping Should End in New Mexico

Other states have done it already.
Arizona, Colorado, California, and Washington all have banned public lands trapping.
We don’t know the death toll.
The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish imposes no limits on how many animals can be killed by licensed trappers. The state has conducted few population studies on the fur-bearing species it allows to be trapped, and trapping counts are woefully underreported. Nobody knows how many fur-bearing species used to roam the state. Nobody knows how many live in it now. Nobody knows how many have been killed. This cannot continue.
Pets and humans are at risk.
In New Mexico, traps can be legally placed as near as 25 yards from a hiking trail or public road, and a quarter mile from a dwelling, with no warning or marking. Every year, as a result, numerous dogs and humans are injured by traps.
The public is against it.
A 2005 poll found that 63 percent of New Mexican voters, regardless of party affiliation, supported a ban on leg-hold, snare, and lethal traps on our public lands. That number is likely higher now as attitudes continue to evolve.

Make Our Public Lands Cruelty-Free

Tell your elected officials to End the War on Wildlife. Stand with wildlife against the cruel and ecologically destructive practices of the federal wildlife-killing agency, Wildlife Services.

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How You Can Help

Help protect the incredible, vulnerable wildlife of the West! Be a guardian for the wild by joining the conversation, learning about current issues, and making your voice heard. Together, we're a powerful force for nature.

Partners in Protection

TrapFree New Mexico is a coalition of conservation and animal welfare groups who oppose the cruel, damaging, and dangerous practice of trapping in New Mexico. We are working in communities across the state to see an end to this archaic form of cruelty and envision a brighter, more humane future for the Land of Enchantment.

Photo: Ray Rafiti

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