In a move that brings Texas hunting regulations into the 21st century, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission has adopted new rules for mountain lion management. Announced at their May meeting, the updated regulations see the prohibition of canned hunts and introduce standards for trapping these elusive felines. Canned hunts involve the release of a mountain lion, previously captured, for the express purpose of being hunted or chased with hounds, a practice that is now officially banned in the Lone Star State.
According to a statement by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, this is a significant update, as the rules governing the treatment of mountain lions hadn't seen a revamp in over half a century. They quote Richard Heilbrun, Wildlife Diversity Program Director, saying, "The passage of these regulations is an important step toward better management of mountain lions in the state," Heilbrun commented on the need for ethical hunting and trapping practices while allowing landowners the freedom to manage wildlife on their properties.
The commission's unanimous vote also brings with it a new trapping standard. Concern over the welfare of trapped mountain lions led to the establishment of a 36-hour check rule; this ensures any live mountain lions caught in traps will not be left for over one and a half days. The rule aims to address concerns about inhumanity and potential damage to the reputation of legal trapping endeavors.
Initial regulations proposed a breakaway device exemption for certain types of snares during the March meeting. However, this was dropped after public feedback in favor of a blanket exemption, which applies to snares set vertically with a maximum loop size of 10 inches or less. Trapped inadvertently, should a mountain lion find itself ensnared in such a loop, the 36-hour rule does not apply to these specific cases.
Mountain lions, known for their secretive nature, are relatively rare in Texas, predominantly inhabiting regions like the Trans-Pecos, South Texas brushlands, and the western Hill Country. While sightings are uncommon, these regulations mark a significant step by state officials to ensure the species is managed with modern ethical standards in mind.
