Tim Hiller, biologist and trapper over at the Wildlife Ecology Institute is looking to take on one of the greatest research challenges faced by furbearer managers and trappers today: the long term decline in muskrat populations. We've discussed the muskrat decline here in the past, but nobody has come up with a solid answer yet. Here's a great writeup from Tim on the … [Read more...]
Cleaner Water Contributing to Muskrat Decline?
The seemingly widespread, long term decline in muskrat populations has been puzzling to trappers and wildlife managers for years. Despite less trapping pressure and far lower harvest, muskrat numbers continue to go down. Theories attempting to explain lower rat numbers range from habitat loss, higher populations of predators, disease, and many others. Pennsylvania … [Read more...]
What are You Trapping This Season?
The low fur prices have a lot of us down, but most trappers can't stand to sit at home when the season opens. So far I've stuck close to home, trapping muskrats in the swamp across the road from home. It keeps the gas bill low and I haven't got much to lose if fur continues to be near worthless this season. Trapping season for all furbearers opens soon here in Maine, and … [Read more...]
The Flag Tape Muskrat Set
The other day I was watching a Youtube video on muskrat trapping and saw a set I'd never seen before. The young trapper in the video made a baited set with a 110 conibear, but it wasn't bait he used on the trigger - it was a piece of flagging tape. The tape works as a visual attractor and its bright color resembles some sort of food under the water. I found it hard to … [Read more...]
North Dakota Trapper Targets Muskrats
Muskrat trapping is a lot of fun. And it's becoming more rewarding with increasing pelt prices over the past couple of years. But for most trappers, the experience trumps the financial considerations of trapping. Nat Bornsen is a North Dakota trapper who targets muskrats. Click here to read Nat's story. … [Read more...]
Market for Muskrats Gains Attention
The Wall Street Journal just posted an interesting article on the recent rise in demand and prices for muskrat furs. They took the time to interview several trappers and relay their thoughts on the muskrat market, as well as the fur market in general. The North American muskrat market has been booming, thanks to soaring purchases by Chinese and other newly rich nations that … [Read more...]
Muskrat Trapping Extended in Illinois
Illinois governor Pat Quinn signed a bill on Tuesday that extends muskrat trapping in the state. Muskrats are found throughout the state, and trapping of the species is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Congratulations, Illinois trappers! In a time where it seems like trapping rights are constantly being eroded, it's nice to see new trapping … [Read more...]