May 22, 1996
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)

1996-97 small game hunting seasons

Beaton Tulk, minister responsible for wildlife, announced today that the small game hunting seasons and regulations will soon be finalized for 1996-97. The minister was extremely pleased at the excellent response rate to the small game questionnaire recently mailed with the big game application form. This questionnaire was initiated in an effort to gather and evaluate the opinion from hunters regarding provincial small game management strategies. Approximately 90,000 questionnaires were mailed and nearly 50,000 were returned.

Due to the large volume of questionnaires received, a thorough review will not be completed in time to be considered for the 1996-97 small game seasons.

While changes are anticipated when compared to last year, two issues require further evaluation and consideration. These include implementing bag limits for snowshoe hare and the banning of stainless steel wire for snaring snowshoe hare.

According to Mr. Tulk, there has been a significant public lobby for tighter harvest controls for small game, and in particular for snowshoe hares. Much of the public concern has been centred on the absence of a bag limit for snowshoe hare. Mr. Tulk feels that while there may be some merit in the establishment of bag limits, scientific evidence suggests that hare populations are naturally cyclic and that the impact of human harvests is not well understood. It is therefore questionable if the establishment of bag limits would be of any value to helping increase hare populations. Studies confirm that the summertime survival of juveniles is the single most important factor responsible for increases or decreases in populations.

"Bag limits appear to be favoured by residents of areas where harvest pressure is high. While this in itself may be justification to establish harvest limits, further evaluation of the issue will be undertaken before any final decisions are made, including a full analysis of public concerns contained within the small game questionnaire," said Mr. Tulk.

Another issue related to small game management which has been given some recent consideration is the use of stainless steel wire for snaring hares. Compared to other types of wire used for snaring rabbits, including picture cord and brass, stainless steel appears to be the wire type favoured by most hunters in the province in the recent past. Its efficiency, durability and low cost have made it a favourite for snaring rabbits in Newfoundland. However, according to Mr. Tulk, the very durability of the wire has lead to suggestions for its elimination. Some argue that because it is non-corrosive, unattended wire may entrap animals years after the initial setting. In some parts of the province, the use of stainless steel wire has been a factor in accidental capture of the endangered Newfoundland Pine Marten. Complaints have been increasing recently regarding snares being left out after the close of the season. The minister does not condone such actions, adding "while the wire gets the blame, it is those who participate in such unethical acts who are the true culprits. This issue is being taken very seriously, and my officials will be evaluating all aspects of the issue in the coming weeks, including implementing such options as a complete ban on the use of stainless steel wire for snaring."

The minister would like to thank all who participated in the small game survey and urges their continued involvement. This includes the submission of annual small game and big game hunter returns.

Contact: Anna Buffinga, (709) 729-3750.