Environment and Conservation
November 20, 2009Hunters Reminded
of Snaring Requirements
Several recent pine marten deaths in the province
have been attributed to the use of illegal snaring wire,
and the Department of Environment and Conservation is
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,� said the Honourable Charlene
Johnson, Minister of Environment and Conservation. �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,� said Minister Johnson. �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. Any time that a threatened species is being
negatively impacted, it is of the utmost concern for our
government. It is vital that hunters and trappers act
responsibly and review all necessary requirements
related to this activity.�
For regulations associated with small game hunting and
snaring, hunters and trappers should refer to the
2009-2010 Hunting and Trapping Guide which is available
at
//www.env.gov.nl.ca/env/wildlife/publications/2009-10
hunting trapping guide.pdf
The guide is also available at Department of Natural
Resources and Department of Environment and Conservation
offices throughout the province.
- 30 -
Media contact
Melony O�Neill
Director of Communications
Department of Environment and Conservation
709-729-2575, 689-0928
moneill@gov.nl.ca
2009 11 20
1:05 p.m.