Illegal snaring wire has been determined the cause of several recent pine marten deaths in the province, the provincial government announced today.
The Department of Environment and Conservation is thus reminding the hunting and trapping public of the small-game snaring requirements.
Only 22-gauge brass wire or six-strand picture cord may be used for the purpose of snaring small game (snowshoe hare, ptarmigan and grouse) on the island portion of the province in areas where snaring is permitted during the open season.
“We implemented changes to small game snaring requirements in the 2008-09 hunting season, after considerable review and public input concerning the mortality of non-target animals, particularly the threatened pine marten,” Environment Minister Charlene Johnson said.
“All hunters and trappers should be fully aware of these requirements, including the fact that wire types such as stainless steel can no longer be used.”
The minister also said that illegal snaring activities are very concerning, particularly for the majority of those who conduct their activities in a legal and conservation minded manner.
“Snaring small game is one of our most popular small game hunting activities and is an important part of our province’s culture,” Johnson said. “The illegal use of improper wire is very disconcerting, not only from our wildlife management perspective, but also for the many hunters who take the regulations very seriously.”