Trapping is a cruel and dangerous activity threatening native wildlife, humans, and companion animals. Traps are indiscriminate, which means nearly any animal whose feet touch the ground can trigger them—whether it’s an endangered species like the Mexican wolf, a bald eagle, or a family dog. Traps are also inhumane, exposing animals to psychological trauma, dehydration, excruciating pain, injury, self-amputation, depredation, and a slow death.

The public generally abhors trapping, yet many states persist not only in permitting it, but allowing it to happen largely unregulated. In New Mexico, for instance, trappers aren’t required to report the non-target wildlife they capture and kill, and the state imposes no limits on how many animals can be killed by licensed trappers. Montana has no trap check requirement except in limited areas where we forced them to implement a check through litigation.

WildEarth Guardians is campaigning against the vicious practice of trapping, our own and in coalition with partners. By ending trapping on our public lands, we will make our public lands safe and enjoyable for recreationists and wildlife.