Snaring big cats without boundaries is now history in Texas, as the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission has given the green light to new regulations — a first for the state. The pivotal change puts a lid on the controversial "canned" hunts and now requires checked traps every 36 hours, a rule designed to prevent prolonged suffering for these wild creatures.
Despite being the last of the 16 states harboring breeding mountain lion populations to enforce such laws, the unanimous decision by the commissioners is no less significant. The new rule tosses out the possibility of capturing mountain lions for later release during hunts, or worse, letting them languish in trap or snare for over a day and a half. As reported by the San Antonio Report, an offender is looking at a misdemeanor with up to a $500 slap on the wrist, though it won't land them behind bars.
Previously, the state didn't set any harvest limits, didn't require killers to report their takes, and hadn't penciled in a hunting season for mountain lions. But these cats are more than targets in the eyes of Texans; they are part of the state's rich cultural tapestry. "Mountain lions are important to the culture of Texas and belong in the future of our state," Ben Masters, a wildlife filmmaker and member of the Texans for Mountain Lions coalition, told the San Antonio Report.
A 2022 survey by Texas A&M University found broad support for humane trapping measures, with 75% of respondents giving the thumbs up to the 36-hour trap checks. Masters shared the sentiment of unity this stance has fostered, remarking, "It was inspiring to see ranchers, trappers, hunters, hippies, outfitters, biologists and wildlife advocates from across the state all converge to support more respectful management of our cats." The Texas Parks and Wildlife commissioners later ushered in the public comment period preceding their final vote, marking a stride towards conservation and respect for the majestic creatures that roam the Texan wilds.
Reflecting the depth of appreciation Texans have for mountain lions, the new regulations aim to ensure they continue to prowl their natural habitat for generations to come. "It is heartening to see the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department genuinely and thoughtfully move the needle on behalf of a species that so many Texans value as part of our natural heritage, and that gives back in supporting the health of our ecosystems," wildlife researcher Patricia Harveson, also a member of the Texans for Mountain Lions coalition, said in the afterglow of the historic decision.
