Each fall, thousands of Wisconsin residents head outdoors with hopes of successfully outsmarting and capturing their prey. Wisconsin trappers often find themselves trying to ensnare nearly 10 different species of animal, from beavers to foxes as well as raccoons. The Wisconsin Trappers Association is dedicated to educating the public about how and why they trap. Allen Nickel, trappers education instructor says he was introduced to trapping at a young age.
Currently, there are around 2,500 members in the Wisconsin Trappers Association, with additional non-members who trap on their own. They utilize species-specific traps and test them to ensure they hold the animal securely and humanely while minimizing any harm.
Trapping in Wisconsin is regulated and has specific seasons for each species. Some species have year-round trapping available for landowners experiencing problems. However regulated trapping is also necessary to avoid interfering with breeding times.
“To be a successful trapper you have to be outside scouting and looking for tracks and scat to get a better idea of their movements as well as how to effectively trap them,” says Nickel. “You really have to know your surroundings and their patterns.”
Trappers continue to utilize all parts of the animals trapped, including their fur, glands, as well as bones. The skunk essence that makes them smell is utilized in very high-end perfumes. Some parts of the animals are even used in food products such as vanilla ice cream.
“It’s two different cultures, you’re either for trapping or you’re against it, or some people are on the fence,” says Nickel. “We’re not going to try to switch anybody over from not believing in trapping, we just want to educate them on why we do it and how we do it.”
If you have questions, it is best to contact your local warden.