The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ( TPWD ) is asking for comments on proposals to implement trapping standards for mountain lions and to end canned hunting until May 22.
The wildcat population of mountain lions ranges from Canada to South America, making them comparatively surprising, mysterious, and abundant. Mountain lions can be found throughout the Trans-Pecos, the southern Texas brushlands, and the northern Hill Country in Texas.
Bottled Expeditions
Now, Texas law does not prevent canned hunting, meaning the catch and eventually launch of a mountain lion for the purpose of hunting. The action should be outlawed in Texas, according to TPWD.
The Big Cat Public Safety Act, which was passed by Congress in December 2022, does not address the cats that may be released from traps. It does not solve the majority of cases of possession of mountain lions.
Trapping Requirements
Mountain lions must be checked using nets in Texas, not Texas. Some rock cats have been reportedly left in nets because they believe they are cruel and have the potential to harm their reputations.
A legislation that requires hunters to ensure that cats are kept alive in traps or snares for longer than 36 hours has been suggested by TPWD.
Traps that are quickly destructive or incapable of restrainting a lion would not be subject to the regulation.
The plan also provides a general provision from the 36-hour necessity for traps with breakaway equipment that allows a cable snare to collapse when pushed against a 285-pound or less. Mountain cats are capable of pulling with at least 285 pounds of force. Likewise, coyotes usually can take on snares with only 192- 250 pounds of force.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission will take suggestions into the proposed rules changes before taking any action at its May people meet. TPWD encourages people feedback on the proposed changes. Among the options to comment on these ideas are:
- Online: Up until May 22 to leave comments on each of the changes, please visit the TPWD public opinion page.
- Phone or email: Remarks on the proposed changes may be submitted to Richard Heilbrun, TPWD Diversity Program Leader, at Richard. heilbrun@tpwd.texas. governor or 512- 389- 8104.
- In people: The TPW Commission will take people comment on the proposed changes at its meeting beginning 9 a. m. May 23 at TPWD’s Austin office. Per regular exercise, people testimony is limited to three hours per person.
