In Illinois, hunters and trappers can sell the carcasses of raccoons that they capture for fur. This gives trappers a better return for their effort, allows residents to acquire a healthy source of protein at a very low cost, and helps control the population of critters that abound in suburban areas throughout the state. Most people who buy the ‘coons are those who grew up in the South where raccoons are eaten regularly, but this food source is also attracting new consumers as well.
It’s a win-win situation for everyone. Well….maybe not the animal rights folks, but that’s another story. Bottom line, raccoon populations are healthy (overpopulation can often causes rabies outbreaks), the economy is better off, and the entire animal is utilized. The fur is sold to foreign and domestic markets to produce articles of clothing and the meat provides healthy meals for local families. Sounds like something other states should really consider allowing.
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