A proposed initiative in Colorado, known as Proposed Initiative #91, aims to ban the hunting and commercial trapping of mountain lions, bobcats, and lynx, as well as other wild cats. The initiative, backed by wildlife advocates, including the Cats Aren’t Trophies (CATs) organization, has gathered enough signatures to qualify for the general election on Nov. 5. If passed, the measure would protect these animals from being killed for their heads and fur coats, while still allowing for the lethal removal of problem animals for the safety of people, pets, or farm animals.
Last hunting season, Colorado hunters killed 502 cats in the state, according to Colorado Parks & Wildlife. The proposed ballot measure seeks to put an end to the recreational trophy hunting and commercial fur trapping of these wild cats, while still allowing for necessary lethal removal in certain circumstances. California has had similar regulations in place for years, having banned mountain lion hunting in 1972 and trapping of bobcats in 2015, with bobcat hunting also being banned in 2020. The state protects these animals as “nongame species,” recognizing their value in the ecosystem.
Mountain lions, also known as pumas, are solitary creatures most active at dusk and dawn. The Mountain Lion Foundation in Sacramento provides information on the behavior and habits of these majestic cats. The proposed ban in Colorado is seen as a step towards protecting these animals and ensuring they are not killed unnecessarily for trophies or commercial purposes. The initiative reflects a growing concern for wildlife conservation and humane treatment of animals within the state.
The initiative to ban hunting and commercial trapping of mountain lions and other wild cats in Colorado has gained considerable support, with nearly 200,000 signatures backing the proposal. Wildlife advocates see this as a crucial step in preventing the inhumane killing of animals for sport or profit. If the measure passes, it would mark a significant victory for conservation efforts and could set a precedent for other states to follow in protecting vulnerable species from exploitation.
The Cats Aren’t Trophies (CATs) organization has been instrumental in pushing for the proposed initiative in Colorado. Campaign manager Samantha Miller emphasized the importance of halting the unnecessary killing of these animals for their heads and fur coats. The measure seeks to strike a balance between protecting wildlife and ensuring public safety, allowing for the lethal removal of problem animals while putting an end to recreational trophy hunting and commercial fur trapping of wild cats. The initiative’s passage would send a strong message about the value of wildlife and the need to protect vulnerable species from exploitation.
Colorado residents will have the opportunity to vote on Proposed Initiative #91 in the upcoming general election. The outcome of the ballot measure could have far-reaching implications for wildlife conservation and animal rights in the state. If successful, the ban on hunting and commercial trapping of mountain lions, bobcats, and lynx would bring Colorado in line with other states that have already implemented similar protective measures. The proposed initiative reflects a growing awareness of the importance of preserving biodiversity and respecting the rights of wild animals in the face of increasing threats to their survival.
