P.E.I.'s New Snare Regulations: A Tight Squeeze for Trappers and Wildlife Balance?

New regulations for snaring foxes and coyotes on Prince Edward Island are sparking significant debate, as trappers and wildlife advocates voice concerns that the well-intentioned changes could inadvertently harm the province’s wildlife management efforts and the traditional practice of trapping itself.

At the heart of the contention are two primary amendments: the mandatory use of a "relaxing lock" on all snares and a stringent 24-hour check requirement.

While designed to enhance animal welfare by preventing strangulation and reducing the time an animal might spend in a snare, trappers argue these rules present substantial practical hurdles and could lead to unforeseen negative consequences for both the animals and the ecosystem.

Trappers, many of whom are part-time and deeply connected to the land, are particularly worried about the "relaxing lock." This mechanism is intended to loosen its grip when an animal pulls back, theoretically preventing fatal injuries.

However, experienced trappers fear that instead of ensuring a humane catch, it could make snares less effective, allowing animals to escape more frequently, often with injuries that could lead to a slower, more painful demise. They express concern that a wounded fox or coyote might evade capture, only to succumb to its injuries later or suffer from infection.

The 24-hour check rule also poses significant logistical challenges.

For trappers with extensive trap lines covering vast areas, or those who work off-island, adhering to such a strict timeframe is often impractical, if not impossible. This could effectively sideline many part-time trappers, who contribute significantly to the province's wildlife management through their traditional activities.

The P.E.I. Wildlife Conservation Fund (WCF) highlights that trapping is more than just a pastime; it's an integral part of managing wildlife populations, preventing overpopulation of predators, and protecting other small game and livestock.

The WCF, which often relies on trappers for various wildlife initiatives like relocating geese, warns that a decline in trapping activity could lead to an unchecked boom in fox and coyote populations.

Such an increase could have cascading effects, decimating small game like pheasants and rabbits, and posing a greater threat to local farmers' livestock. Trappers argue they are not just taking animals but are actively participating in maintaining the island's delicate ecological balance.

As an alternative to the relaxing lock, some trappers propose the use of a "breakaway lock." This mechanism is designed to release if a non-target animal, such as a deer, becomes entangled, allowing it to escape unharmed.

They suggest this offers a more targeted approach to preventing incidental capture of larger animals, without compromising the effectiveness of snares for their intended purpose. The current relaxing lock, they argue, might not be suitable for all situations and could still lead to injury for larger, non-target species if not properly implemented.

The debate underscores the complex interplay between traditional practices, evolving humane standards, and ecological stewardship.

As P.E.I. navigates these new regulations, the challenge lies in finding a balance that supports both the welfare of individual animals and the long-term health of the island's diverse wildlife populations, without inadvertently marginalizing the experienced individuals who have long contributed to its management.