In recent years, Colorado has adopted policies to combat climate change, banned wildlife killing contests, and worked to bring back iconic species like bison and wolves.
Still, 17 species are left out of this progress, classified by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) as “furbearers,” a term that reflects an antiquated view of wildlife as commodities rather than vital parts of healthy ecosystems.
Last year, CPW began to take a hard look at its furbearer management rules by appointing a task force to review and make recommendations for rule changes. You can read the report here.
The commission will now consider the rule change recommendations at its March 4 – 5 meeting, and we need your voice to help encourage key improvements, including:
- Developing a statewide program to promote coyote friendly communities and prioritize coexistence
- Implementing a three-month closed season for coyotes, ending unlimited hunting and trapping, and establishing reasonable kill and possession limits, ensuring consistent management standards across all furbearer species
- Conducting population surveys for all furbearer species, which are necessary to identify potential changes in how many animals can be hunted and trapped
CPW is accepting written comments through February 27. You can use the following talking points, but personalize your comments for the greatest impact.
Colorado has shown it can lead on wildlife conservation. Let’s make sure coyotes and other furbearers aren’t left behind. The opposition is organizing and your voice is needed!
