Protect wildlife from cruel trapping methods

Massachusetts voters approved the Wildlife Protection Act more than 20 years ago, but every session bills are filed that could undermine that law by allowing cruel methods of hunting and trapping in the Commonwealth. Four bills now under consideration would remove current restrictions on the body-gripping Conibear and leghold (sometimes called foot-hold) traps, which are used to capture fur-bearing mammals such as beaver and coyote. 

If the legislature passes these bills, the result would allow a return to the days of recreational trapping with inhumane and indiscriminate devices. These traps can capture non-target animals, including pets, and allow for trapped animals to suffer. Such practices are inhumane, ineffective at population control, and have no place in responsible wildlife management. (Read more in our trapping bill factsheet.)

There is a committee hearing for these bills on June 25. Voice your opposition today. 

TAKE ACTION: Please make two brief, polite calls to your state representative and state senator to urge them to oppose bills that would remove restrictions on trapping in Massachusetts (look up their numbers). You can say, "As a concerned constituent, I urge you to oppose bills that would allow cruel trapping methods or repeal parts of the Wildlife Protection Act, including H.885, H.839, H.781, and S.479. These bills have been referred to the Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture Committee, and I urge you to voice your opposition to the committee leadership before these bills are heard on June 25." 

It only takes a few minutes to make a difference. After your two calls, please send a follow-up email to your legislators (look up their emails). Personalizing your message will help it stand out.