Status of avocational trapping based on the perspectives of state furbearer biologists

Participation in trapping, a historically and biologically significant wild life management practice, has been declining. In addition, it does not enjo y strong; public support. Avocation is one of many motivations for trapping . We used a qualitative approach to interview furbearer biologists in each of the 50 United States (U,S.). These biologists work daily with trappers a nd have insight into the significant issues associated with avocational tra pping. From these interviews, we identified 6 issues (an appropriate descri ptor, anti-trapping sentiment, recruitment, pelt prices, public image, and access to lands). We discuss how these issues were supported or contradicte d by related studies. Our findings are important in establishing state poli cy and actions related to furbearer management.