A proposed initiative in Colorado seeks to ban the hunting and commercial trapping of mountain lions, bobcats, and lynx. Proposed Initiative #91 “Prohibit Trophy Hunting” has gained enough signatures to qualify for the general election on Nov. 5. Backed by wildlife advocates, including the Cats Aren’t Trophies organization based in Grand Lake, Colorado, the initiative aims to stop the inhumane killing of wild cats for their heads and fur coats. The proposed measure, while prohibiting recreational trophy hunting and commercial fur trapping, allows for the lethal removal of problem animals for the safety of people, pets, or farm and ranch animals.
During the last hunting season, Colorado hunters killed 502 cats in the state, according to Colorado Parks & Wildlife. If the initiative passes, it would bring an end to the hunting of mountain lions and other wild cats in the state. California has already implemented similar protections for mountain lions, preventing hunting of the animals since 1972 and designating them as a “nongame species.” In 2015, California banned the trapping of bobcats, and in 2020, bobcat hunting was also banned. Mountain lions, also known as pumas, are solitary cats that are most active at dusk and dawn, according to the Mountain Lion Foundation in Sacramento.
Supporters of the proposed initiative see it as a way to protect these wild cats from unnecessary and cruel practices. The initiative has garnered nearly 200,000 signatures, indicating significant public support for the measure. This move aligns with efforts in other states, like California, to protect species of wild cats from being hunted for trophies or commercial purposes. While recreational hunting and commercial trapping would be banned if the initiative passes, exceptions would be made for the lethal removal of problem animals in cases where they pose a threat to people, pets, or farm and ranch animals.
The initiative has sparked a debate among residents, conservationists, and hunting advocates in Colorado. While some see it as a necessary step to protect these wild cats from exploitation and cruelty, others argue that hunting can help control their population and minimize conflicts with humans. Colorado Wildlife & Parks has yet to comment on the proposed initiative, but the upcoming general election will give voters the opportunity to decide on the future of mountain lions, bobcats, and lynx in the state. The outcome of the ballot measure will likely have significant implications for wildlife conservation efforts and hunting regulations in Colorado.
If the proposed initiative is successful, it would mark a significant shift in wildlife management policies in Colorado. The ban on hunting and commercial trapping of mountain lions, bobcats, and lynx would provide these animals with greater protection from being exploited for trophies or fur. The measure reflects a growing awareness and concern for the welfare of wild cats and other wildlife species, as advocates and conservation organizations continue to push for stronger protections and sustainable management practices. The decision on Nov. 5 will be a crucial moment for the future of wildlife conservation and hunting regulations in Colorado.
