Table of Contents
Short-Eared Owl on 1999 Species at Risk T-shirt ....................................................................
Mandatory Fur Harvester Courses .............................................................................................
Trap Testing in Nova Scotia ....................................................................................................
Furbearer Report ........................................................................................................................
Bobcat Reproduction, Age Structure and Bag Limit ...................................................................
Species Abundance as Recorded by Fur Harvesters ..................................................................
Additional Traps Meet International Standards ........................................................................
Black Bear in Nova Scotia .......................................................................................................
Trap Standards - Update on the EU Agreement and Canadian Trap Standards .......................
Nuisance Wildlife Operators Association ...............................................................................
Fisher Study Continues ..............................................................................................................
Anyone seeking further information on furbearer management or wishing to provide input to the Department of
Natural Resources should contact their local office, a Regional Wildlife Biologist, or the Furbearer and Upland
Game Section of DNR, Attn: Mike O'Brien, 136 Exhibition Street, Kentville, NS - B4N 4E5 By e-mail:
obrienms@gov.ns.ca Phone: (902) 679-6091 Fax: (902) 679-6176. The Furbearer Section, including Trappers
Newsletter, is on the Internet: https://novascotia.ca/natr/wildlife/furbers/furbs.htm
Accidental catches or sightings of rare species may also be reported by calling 1-800-565-2224.
Short-Eared Owl On 1999 Species at Risk T-Shirt
By Angela Bond, Danielle Degraaf and Sarah Spencer
The Short-Eared owl (Asio flammeus) is one of six different owl species that occur regularly in
Nova Scotia. It is recognized by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Species in Canada
(COSEWIC) as "vulnerable"; in spite of this designation however, it is one of the most widely
distributed owls in the world, found on most continents and oceanic islands. There are
approximately 100 Short-Eared owl pairs in the Maritimes. The life span of this bird varies with
its geographic location - for example, it lives for approximately twelve years in Europe, but only
for about four years in North America. Its range in North America is in the Arctic tundra, from
Alaska to northern Labrador, and in the boreal and temperate grass and shrub-lands south to
California and New Jersey. In the Maritimes, it is found in dyked wet meadows and marshes, and
in coastal bogs.
The Short-Eared owl is active day and night, and tends to hunt low to the ground. Its main food is
the meadow vole, but it also preys on shrews, moles, rabbits, and pocket gophers. The owl's
numbers fluctuate from year to year with changes in abundance of these small mammals. A major
threat to its population is habitat loss due to agriculture, reforestation and industrialization. Its
eggs are also destroyed by skunks, domestic cats, and dogs. These problems have contributed to
the species being placed on the National Audubon Society's blue list of declining birds in 1976.
Species at Risk t-shirts are being sold through Nova Scotia Liquor Commission outlets. By
purchasing a t-shirt, you are increasing awareness of threatened wildlife while at the same time
helping to fund future research.
Mandatory Fur Harvester Courses
Courses take place each year in early fall. Since 1986, 61 Fur Harvester Courses have been held
and there have been a total of 1,247 students. Application forms are available at all local DNR
offices, and may be submitted throughout the year. Registration and payment must be received
not later than August 15 in order to guarantee a place in courses for that fall. Students registered
by August 15 will receive notification of their course date and location in early September;
participants are required to confirm their attendance by September 15. Anyone unable to attend
must also notify DNR, Wildlife Division in Kentville, otherwise their name will be removed from
the course waiting list, and their registration fee forfeited.
Trap Testing in Nova Scotia
by Mike Boudreau
Although the conventional steel-jawed leghold trap will be banned at the end of the 2000-01
trapping season, the Fur Institute of Canada (FIC) remains committed to testing different traps
against the International and Canadian standards. As part of this continuing research, the FIC
provides funding to native trappers and trappers associations across Canada.
Nova Scotia continues to play a role by both actively testing traps and gathering information. In
the last few years, this province's trappers have tested restraining and killing traps for a number of
different species of furbearers; this is usually done on the trap line, however there has been some
laboratory testing of killing traps. A sufficient number of carcasses were available due to our
mandatory carcass return policy.
The most recent of these projects took place during the spring of 1999, when a technician from
Alberta worked on Nova Scotia bobcats. The original study was set up to look at the clamping
force of 330 conibears and modified 330s on lynx. The assumption was that both cats have similar
physical characteristics, and that by taking measurements on both lynx and bobcats there would be
no need to use live bobcats. A total of 42 carcasses were processed with a standard 330 and a
modified 330 conibear. At the present time this testing is of little significance to trappers in Nova
Scotia because of the limited use of 330s for bobcat trapping. However, it is vital for provinces
which have regulations allowing dry land sets for 330s. Study results will be available when the
data has been analyzed.
Throughout September and October of the 1998-99 season, the FIC provided funding for a
trapper from the Trappers Association of Nova Scotia to live-trap otters for compound testing of
various otter traps. After consulting with the contractor and using past provincial harvest data, it
was decided to trap in the Bras D'or Lake area of Cape Breton. This site was chosen mainly
because of its productivity and easy access. Traps were supplied by the Alberta Research Council,
and consisted of a modified #3 Victor soft catch center-swivelled, with an extra in-line spring and
swivels in the trap chain. All traps were staked on dry land and set in such a way as to reduce
injury to the otter from entanglement while in the trap. Traps were checked every day, and when
time permitted twice a day. They were set without bait or lure so as to specifically target otters
and thus reduce incidental by-catch. In all, ten otters were trapped.
During the fall of 1999, the FIC will again provide funding for a contract to test traps on coyotes.
Nova Scotia will be running this testing concurrently with trappers from British Columbia,
Alberta, and Ontario. Three different traps will be tested: a Victor #3 4-coiled softcatch attached
to an eight foot drag, a Bridger attached to an eight foot drag, and a Bridger which will be
anchored with a stake. The results will be available sometime in the new year.
Furbearer Report
by Mike O'Brien and Mike Boudreau
The number of fur harvester licenses sold in the 1998-99 season decreased by 13.3 per cent to
1649. The level of effort by those who did buy licenses appears to have remained stable, with 62.3
per cent reporting taking fur in the 1998-99 season.
Fur prices declined for most species, with significant declines in several species. Price gains for
wild fur which might have been expected with increased stability in the marketplace (as a result of
the resolution of the European Union situation) have been offset by loss of markets from Asian
and Russian economic uncertainty. More details on the European situation and progress on the
Canadian trap standards appear elsewhere in this issue, in the article Trap Standards - Update on
the EU Agreement and Canadian Trap Standards.
Snowshoe Hare
Snowshoe hares, or "rabbits" as we Nova Scotians call them, are an important prey species for
several predatory furbearers. Abundance rankings made by fur harvesters show an overall increase
in snowshoe hares in the province, with the Cape Breton area showing a slight decrease. Rankings
indicate medium to high populations in all counties, with the highest levels still in the Cape Breton
counties. Upland game harvest survey results showed an increase in snowshoe hares, with
estimated harvest up about 14.6 per cent overall.
Bobcat
The bobcat harvest was up 6.7 per cent from last year, with a total of 1,103 animals taken. This
increase probably at least partly reflects an increase in the bag limit from four to five in most
counties. Abundance rankings for the province continued to increase. Other indicators of
population status showed mixed results. The proportion of kittens in the harvest was down
substantially, while the pregnancy rate of yearling females was up significantly from last year. As
reported elsewhere in this issue, in the article Bobcat Reproduction, Age Structure and Bag Limit,
the bag limit this fall will remain at five province-wide. Cumberland County has also now been
raised to a bag limit of five. This is based on examination of all the biological and survey
information.
Beaver
The provincial beaver harvest declined by 9.0 per cent to 5,807 animals, but still remains relatively
high. Pelt prices declined again this year, by approximately 27 per cent. Provincial abundance
rankings showed an increase from 1997-98, but were still generally in the medium range across
the province. After discussions with Department field staff and trappers, bag limits have been set
at the same level as last year in all four zones. We recognize the fact that trappers often trap other
aquatic furbearers (such as otter, mink, and muskrat) over a geographic area that extends beyond
the boundaries of the beaver zone in which they permanently reside. As a result, regulations were
recently changed to allow trappers to retain beaver taken in any zone. This is provided that they
do not exceed in total the bag limit for the zone in which they permanently reside, and do not take
in any one zone more than the bag limit for that zone. It appears that this change has not resulted
in any major harvest management problems, and is providing us with an improved picture of the
geographic distribution of our beaver harvest.
Otter
Otter harvests declined again this year, dropping 13.9 per cent to 478 animals. This is still in the
middle of the range for harvests in recent years. While most other fur prices dropped in 1997-98,
otter remained stable. However, this year saw prices fall by about 26 per cent to an average of
$53.50, the lowest they have been since 1992-93. Abundance rankings increased slightly this year,
but remained in the low to medium range (similar to the past several years). Preliminary results
suggest that otter, like other fish-eating species, are being affected in some parts of Nova Scotia
by environmental mercury contamination. We are collecting otter carcasses again this year to
continue to improve our understanding of what is happening with the otter population. The status
of this species will be closely monitored to ensure the maintenance of a sustainable population.
Muskrat
Muskrat catches continued to decline this year, dropping 15 per cent to 26,623. This harvest is
still higher than most recent years prior to 1996-97. The average price decreased by nearly 27 per
cent to $3.17, but still remained higher than in many recent years. Abundance rankings were up
slightly overall.
Mink
The mink harvest was up 2.5 per cent from last year, with 1,724 animals taken. Abundance
rankings were also up somewhat, while prices declined by about 17 per cent to $15.70.
Fisher
Fur harvester abundance rankings, while increasing somewhat, continued to be in the low range
for fisher. Under new regulations allowing retention of one accidentally caught fisher, 184 fisher
were taken in 1997-98 by fur harvesters. Following an offer of financial support from the
Trappers Association of Nova Scotia (TANS), a decision was made before the 1998-99 season to
resume our fisher relocation program in cooperation with TANS. Consequently, the season was
closed in all counties except Cumberland, Colchester, and Pictou, with the aim of bolstering
populations in lower density areas. This resulted in a 29 per cent decline in the harvest this year,
to 131 animals. This total is very similar to the number harvested in the previous year in those
three counties. While the harvests of the past four seasons continue to be encouraging, we will
need to continue close monitoring of this species to ensure continued population recovery and
expansion. A report on the progress of the fisher live-capture and translocation and habitat
research project can be found elsewhere in this issue, in the article Fisher Study Continues. We
plan to continue this project this year, with additional animals being live-trapped and moved from
Cumberland, Colchester, and Pictou counties to the south-central part of the province. This will
hopefully bolster fisher numbers there, and eventually connect the eastern and western fisher
populations. To increase the impact of this program and to protect relocated animals, regulations
will remain the same as last year: trappers resident in Cumberland, Colchester, or Pictou counties
will be allowed to retain one accidentally caught fisher if caught in either Cumberland, Colchester,
or Pictou counties only. Fisher that are accidentally caught in all other areas of the province must
be turned in to DNR, at least for the duration of this project. As with all seasons and bag limits,
this regulation will be reviewed annually.
Raccoon
Raccoon harvests decreased by about 9.5 per cent to 5,577. Abundance rankings increased
slightly, indicating a medium population level. Average price for raccoon furs decreased
substantially from last year, with many pelts unsold by the auction houses. Outbreaks of distemper
will likely continue to result in lower populations in affected areas.
Fox
Fox harvests decreased by 6.3 per cent to 841. Abundance rankings increased somewhat. Prices
dropped about 28 per cent from last year.
Coyote
Coyote harvests increased almost 18 per cent to 1,254. Overall abundance rankings were also up
somewhat, while the average price showed little change from the previous year.
Other Species
Squirrel harvests remained high, increasing by 6.1 per cent to 6,543. Weasel harvests declined by
22 per cent to 468. Harvests of skunks increased by 50 per cent. Lynx, marten, and cougar remain
totally protected. Occasional specimens of lynx and marten continue to be taken accidentally each
year - trappers should make every effort to avoid accidental capture of these species.
Accidental Captures
Fur harvesters who accidentally catch protected species or animals in excess of their bag limits
should try to release them alive if practical. If not, you must report your catch to an office of the
Department of Natural Resources before it is removed from the trap site; this may be done by
calling any DNR office, or by calling 1-800-565-2224, 24 hours a day. The office will advise you
on how to handle the situation. Anyone found in possession of an animal to which they are not
entitled without first notifying the Department may be charged. Most animals turned in to DNR
are used for demonstration and training at the annual Trappers Workshop. Proceeds from the sale
of pelts are used to support trapper education.
Fur Harvest as Calculated from Licence Returns
and Fur Buyer Slips in 1997/98
County |
Beaver |
Mu'rat |
Otter |
Mink |
B'cat |
Fox |
Coon |
Skunk |
Squirrel |
Weasel |
Coyote |
Fisher |
Anna |
309 |
1438 |
16 |
64 |
78 |
40 |
149 |
23 |
256 |
17 |
32 |
13 |
Digby |
361 |
1146 |
19 |
248 |
33 |
27 |
207 |
2 |
1398 |
52 |
41 |
10 |
Kings |
149 |
3706 |
8 |
76 |
12 |
77 |
615 |
2 |
429 |
3 |
77 |
3 |
Lunen. |
485 |
423 |
37 |
160 |
69 |
77 |
530 |
9 |
377 |
31 |
67 |
2 |
Queens |
242 |
151 |
19 |
93 |
99 |
3 |
179 |
0 |
413 |
9 |
52 |
5 |
Shel. |
253 |
1292 |
32 |
83 |
102 |
25 |
138 |
0 |
63 |
22 |
70 |
0 |
Yar. |
363 |
4435 |
19 |
201 |
78 |
25 |
221 |
0 |
259 |
60 |
34 |
5 |
Anti. |
303 |
786 |
15 |
39 |
35 |
27 |
553 |
2 |
219 |
13 |
83 |
4 |
Col. |
371 |
2332 |
10 |
56 |
43 |
44 |
651 |
4 |
250 |
26 |
84 |
47 |
Cum. |
754 |
6884 |
25 |
132 |
20 |
54 |
1064 |
4 |
174 |
31 |
66 |
61 |
Guys. |
102 |
60 |
33 |
30 |
21 |
12 |
61 |
0 |
67 |
19 |
13 |
10 |
Hfx. |
456 |
774 |
90 |
265 |
154 |
79 |
342 |
9 |
222 |
77 |
107 |
5 |
Hants |
381 |
1144 |
22 |
65 |
45 |
73 |
365 |
16 |
145 |
15 |
54 |
2 |
Pictou |
662 |
1341 |
15 |
20 |
70 |
106 |
977 |
3 |
230 |
8 |
74 |
36 |
C Bret |
372 |
2092 |
35 |
52 |
44 |
132 |
50 |
0 |
149 |
15 |
42 |
0 |
Inv. |
514 |
2645 |
52 |
61 |
68 |
105 |
22 |
0 |
478 |
147 |
53 |
0 |
Rich. |
216 |
552 |
57 |
20 |
34 |
33 |
14 |
0 |
56 |
49 |
47 |
0 |
Vic. |
92 |
330 |
51 |
16 |
24 |
50 |
27 |
0 |
14 |
8 |
35 |
0 |
Total |
6385 |
31531 |
555 |
1681 |
1029 |
989 |
6165 |
74 |
5199 |
602 |
1031 |
184 |
Fur Harvest as Calculated from Licence Returns
and Fur Buyer Slips in 1998/99
County |
Be'ver |
Mu'rat |
Otter |
Mink |
B'cat |
Fox |
Rac'on |
Skunk |
Sq'rel |
Weasel |
Coyote |
Fisher |
Anna |
188 |
1384 |
26 |
46 |
61 |
8 |
57 |
0 |
308 |
29 |
47 |
0 |
Digby |
333 |
695 |
13 |
296 |
31 |
42 |
121 |
1 |
1520 |
35 |
42 |
1* |
Kings |
128 |
3500 |
10 |
66 |
13 |
70 |
522 |
23 |
159 |
5 |
120 |
3* |
Lunen. |
539 |
530 |
38 |
121 |
117 |
39 |
223 |
3 |
751 |
27 |
77 |
0 |
Queens |
177 |
116 |
30 |
81 |
82 |
4 |
65 |
0 |
97 |
4 |
19 |
1* |
Shel. |
195 |
1222 |
28 |
82 |
111 |
16 |
128 |
0 |
32 |
9 |
36 |
0 |
Yar. |
250 |
2716 |
10 |
190 |
66 |
20 |
103 |
1 |
579 |
40 |
54 |
0 |
Anti. |
354 |
777 |
30 |
44 |
40 |
35 |
613 |
1 |
134 |
8 |
103 |
2* |
Col. |
487 |
2312 |
22 |
90 |
71 |
78 |
784 |
5 |
1254 |
37 |
84 |
46 |
Cum. |
851 |
6403 |
20 |
165 |
60 |
87 |
1129 |
12 |
371 |
65 |
142 |
39 |
Guys. |
60 |
54 |
29 |
18 |
17 |
6 |
39 |
3 |
33 |
2 |
24 |
1* |
Hfx. |
437 |
687 |
79 |
211 |
120 |
54 |
322 |
0 |
168 |
39 |
107 |
3* |
Hants |
245 |
690 |
18 |
48 |
53 |
50 |
342 |
12 |
32 |
7 |
63 |
0 |
Pictou |
502 |
1111 |
14 |
26 |
59 |
56 |
970 |
90 |
57 |
16 |
65 |
35 |
C Bret |
281 |
1625 |
11 |
81 |
37 |
113 |
54 |
0 |
5 |
4 |
31 |
0 |
Inv. |
516 |
1783 |
38 |
79 |
95 |
81 |
47 |
0 |
864 |
87 |
112 |
0 |
Rich. |
175 |
805 |
56 |
50 |
43 |
58 |
51 |
0 |
110 |
50 |
75 |
0 |
Vic. |
89 |
213 |
6 |
30 |
27 |
24 |
7 |
0 |
69 |
4 |
53
|
0 |
Total |
5807 |
26623 |
478 |
1724 |
1103 |
841 |
5577 |
151 |
6543 |
468 |
1254 |
131 |
* Incidental catches turned in to the Department of Natural Resources
Average Value of Wild Fur for Nova Scotia (Per Pelt)
|
90/91 |
91/92 |
92/93 |
93/94 |
94/95 |
95/96 |
96/97 |
97/98 |
98/99 |
Beaver |
$14.84 |
$15.14 |
$13.60 |
$32.30 |
$27.34 |
$32.37 |
$43.00 |
$34.90 |
$25.39 |
Muskrat |
$1.74 |
$2.25 |
$1.64 |
$2.94 |
$3.26 |
$3.82 |
$7.06 |
$4.32 |
$3.17 |
Otter |
$31.86 |
$44.99 |
$49.74 |
$106.47 |
$88.73 |
$63.65 |
$72.42 |
$72.43 |
$53.50 |
Mink |
$27.64 |
$29.13 |
$17.76 |
$22.60 |
$15.16 |
$19.54 |
$19.09 |
$18.84 |
$15.70 |
Bobcat |
$42.72 |
$40.69 |
$32.28 |
$72.35 |
$66.84 |
$44.32 |
$76.96 |
$58.95 |
$48.92 |
Fox |
$15.35 |
$16.91 |
$12.99 |
$24.43 |
$25.43 |
$24.43 |
$25.59 |
$23.38 |
$16.79 |
Racoon |
$6.50 |
$6.15 |
$10.04 |
$15.67 |
$14.35 |
$14.62 |
$23.97 |
$21.53 |
$12.14 |
Weasel |
$2.76 |
$2.47 |
$3.56 |
$4.54 |
$3.05 |
$3.61 |
$5.69 |
$2.88 |
$2.90 |
Squirrel |
$0.75 |
$0.95 |
$1.22 |
$1.00 |
$1.00 |
$0.77 |
$2.42 |
$1.05 |
$0.74 |
Skunk |
N/A |
$3.04 |
$5.06 |
$4.01 |
$3.60 |
$4.29 |
$4.00 |
$1.97 |
$4.37 |
Fisher |
N/A |
$21.90 |
$16.37 |
$27.08 |
$19.95 |
$29.79 |
$46.64 |
$39.93 |
$28.12 |
Bear |
N/A |
$47.54 |
$38.64 |
$76.64 |
$64.59 |
$51.12 |
$99.21 |
$76.47 |
$70.57 |
Coyote |
$17.21 |
$26.25 |
$27.10 |
$35.32 |
$22.36 |
$20.00 |
$33.14 |
$20.25 |
$20.53 |
FurBearing Animals Taken by Fur Harvesters
from 1990 to 1999
|
90/91 |
91/92 |
92/93 |
93/94 |
94/95 |
95/96 |
96/97 |
97/98 |
98/99
|
Beaver |
2368 |
2769 |
3340 |
4801 |
7677 |
6090 |
8642 |
6385 |
5807 |
Muskrat |
10719 |
11115 |
11420 |
12956 |
18248 |
22118 |
36834 |
31531 |
26623 |
Otter |
226 |
378 |
415 |
585 |
1027 |
797 |
765 |
555 |
478 |
Mink |
1229 |
1362 |
1609 |
1531 |
1929 |
1829 |
2168 |
1681 |
1724 |
Bobcat |
420 |
311 |
337 |
499 |
809 |
703 |
976 |
1029 |
1103 |
Fox |
626 |
894 |
1147 |
846 |
1741 |
1118 |
1549 |
898 |
841 |
Raccoon |
911 |
1997 |
2745 |
3599 |
6676 |
5435 |
6490 |
6165 |
5577 |
Weasel |
224 |
232 |
522 |
1164 |
1207 |
1375 |
1037 |
602 |
468 |
Squirrel |
658 |
3800 |
4112 |
1914 |
6852 |
8355 |
6890 |
5199 |
6543 |
Skunk |
17 |
25 |
35 |
122 |
168 |
131 |
229 |
74 |
151 |
Fisher |
3 |
3 |
11 |
9 |
16 |
124 |
217 |
184 |
131 |
Coyote |
777 |
865 |
1276 |
1087 |
1887 |
1155 |
1311 |
1031 |
1254 |
Fur Harvester Licence Sales
|
90/91
|
91/92
|
92/93
|
93/94
|
94/95
|
95/96
|
96/97
|
97/98
|
98/99
|
Annapolis |
85 |
91 |
114 |
92 |
105 |
92 |
96 |
102 |
77 |
Antigonish |
50 |
44 |
122 |
63 |
72 |
70 |
82 |
75 |
68 |
Colchester |
115 |
119 |
156 |
112 |
134 |
136 |
137 |
115 |
83 |
Cumberland |
153 |
118 |
242 |
177 |
211 |
200 |
216 |
181 |
137 |
Digby |
74 |
73 |
101 |
82 |
111 |
102 |
110 |
86 |
108 |
Guysborough |
98 |
83 |
157 |
93 |
106 |
66 |
71 |
77 |
84 |
Halifax |
108 |
124 |
174 |
181 |
200 |
139 |
190 |
190 |
104 |
Hants |
48 |
63 |
102 |
91 |
106 |
89 |
99 |
107 |
70 |
Kings |
101 |
99 |
142 |
112 |
126 |
110 |
111 |
106 |
97 |
Lunenburg |
94 |
97 |
140 |
123 |
125 |
116 |
117 |
106 |
107 |
Pictou |
125 |
105 |
163 |
154 |
164 |
157 |
169 |
159 |
140 |
Queens |
75 |
72 |
92 |
72 |
79 |
68 |
76 |
76 |
65 |
Shelburne |
82 |
71 |
100 |
91 |
107 |
99 |
100 |
94 |
90 |
Yarmouth |
91 |
79 |
129 |
120 |
137 |
127 |
151 |
145 |
128 |
Cape Breton |
59 |
56 |
86 |
88 |
100 |
94 |
97 |
110 |
83 |
Inverness |
72 |
74 |
98 |
82 |
92 |
85 |
82 |
80 |
75 |
Richmond |
52 |
54 |
80 |
63 |
76 |
68 |
76 |
70 |
74 |
Victoria |
20 |
27 |
62 |
41 |
40 |
32 |
37 |
24 |
20 |
TOTAL |
1,502 |
1,449 |
2,260 |
1,837 |
2,091 |
1,850 |
2,017 |
1,903 |
1,649 |
Note: Four year license rule announced during 92/93 resulting in increased sales.
Bobcat Reproduction, Age Structure and Bag Limit
By Mike O'Brien and Mike Boudreau
The state of Nova Scotia's bobcat population has been of concern since a decline occurred in the
early 1980s. In order to monitor this situation, the Department has collected bobcat carcasses
from fur harvesters during most trapping seasons since that time (including a mandatory collection
for the past twelve years). These collections have provided information on location, date of
capture, and harvest methods, and allowed DNR to determine sex and age ratios, as well as
reproductive success of the population.
Figure 1 shows that the percentage of kittens in the harvest has been fluctuating in recent years. In
the 1998-99 harvest, it decreased considerably after a substantial rise in 1997-98. This decrease is
indicative of the number of new animals entering the population. It may reflect some unfavorable
environmental factor(s) in 1997-98, resulting in poorer reproductive success for yearlings and/or
poorer survival of young. It may also be showing that increases in bobcat numbers had begun to
catch up with expansions in snowshoe hare populations at that time, so that competition for prey
had become more of a factor for younger, less experienced animals. Other factors such as trapper
interest and effort, and effects of weather on trapping conditions, are difficult to measure directly.
However, they may influence representation of age classes in the kill.
In bobcat populations, the percentage of pregnant adult females is generally quite high, around 90
per cent in most seasons. The percentage of pregnant yearlings shown in Figure 2 has been much
more variable, probably reflecting environmental factors and overall population conditions. These
"yearlings" (actually only around 10 months old when they are bred) are much more likely to
become pregnant when they are in good body condition. The relatively easy winter of 1994-95
appears to be strongly reflected in the 1995-96 results, with 59 per cent of the yearling females
pregnant. In both 1996-97 and 1997-98, the proportion of yearling females showing evidence of
pregnancy the previous spring declined to 37 and 31 per cent respectively. In 1998-99, the
percentage of pregnant yearlings increased once again to around 44 per cent. This increase may
reflect increasing trends in snowshoe hare abundance in mainland counties. These fluctuations are
perhaps a bit more difficult to attribute to winter conditions, since the winters of 1995-96, 1996-97, 1997-98, and 1998-99 have all been relatively easy.
Various indices of snowshoe hare populations suggest the numbers of this important bobcat prey
species may be past their peak in the current cycle in Cape Breton, but still increasing on the
mainland. Bobcat populations appear to be healthy and supporting increasing harvests. Abundance
rankings are also continuing to increase. Considering this information, as well as other indices
discussed above, the bag limit for the 1999-2000 season has not been changed for most counties.
There is a bag limit change from one to five in Cumberland County, as data gathered in that area
no longer supported a reduced bag limit. Consequently, the bag limit is now five animals across
the province.
Species Abundance as Recorded by Fur Harvesters
By Mike O'Brien and Mike Boudreau
Fur harvesters were asked again last year to record their perception of population levels for 14
animal species. Population levels for five of those species have been reported for ten years, while
population levels for the other nine species have been reported for six years. This has been a very
successful program as it gives us the ability to draw on hundreds of skilled observers, who tell us
how abundant each species is in their area. We encourage all fur harvesters to fill in this section,
as higher numbers of participants increases the accuracy of the data.
Rankings for individual counties may not provide a reliable picture of annual trends because of
low response numbers from some areas. The summaries for each of the three regions, as well as
the provincial totals, are considered very reliable. The table shows results for the 1998-99 season.
The numbers are averages calculated by assigning values to the ranks selected by each fur
harvester. The values given to the ranks are shown under the table.
The lowest possible value for a County is "0", which means that all respondents in that County
felt that none of that particular species was present in their area. The highest possible value is "4",
which means that all respondents from that County felt that numbers for that species were "very
high".
This type of information is most valuable when looking at changes from year to year, and graphs
are presented to show the rankings for five species over a ten year period for all of Nova Scotia.
Average Abundance Rankings Made by Fur Harvesters on License Reports in 1998/99
Co. |
Hare |
B'ver |
Mu'rat |
Otter |
Mink |
B'cat |
Fox |
Coon |
Skunk |
Sqr'el |
Weasel |
C'yote |
Fisher |
Bear |
Anna. |
1.64 |
2.12 |
1.73 |
1.37 |
1.40 |
1.90 |
1.29 |
1.39 |
2.00 |
3.21 |
1.60 |
2.56 |
0.81 |
1.95 |
Digby |
2.63 |
1.91 |
1.85 |
0.91 |
1.75 |
1.57 |
1.72 |
1.41 |
0.47 |
2.97 |
1.42 |
2.17 |
1.02 |
1.29 |
Kings |
1.69 |
1.74 |
2.25 |
1.10 |
1.52 |
1.63 |
1.63 |
1.91 |
2.50 |
2.68 |
1.11 |
2.21 |
0.58 |
1.63 |
Lun. |
1.82 |
2.02 |
1.62 |
1.08 |
1.40 |
1.51 |
1.43 |
1.82 |
1.36 |
2.89 |
1.38 |
2.21 |
0.39 |
1.71 |
Q'eens |
1.82 |
2.28 |
1.73 |
1.69 |
2.09 |
2.31 |
1.03 |
2.42 |
1.00 |
3.17 |
1.36 |
2.26 |
0.69 |
2.14 |
Shelb. |
2.35 |
1.84 |
1.97 |
1.54 |
1.70 |
2.18 |
1.37 |
2.54 |
0.35 |
2.53 |
1.45 |
2.52 |
0.43 |
2.06 |
Y'mth |
2.77 |
2.08 |
2.22 |
1.32 |
1.73 |
20.7 |
1.16 |
1.55 |
0.35 |
2.79 |
1.68 |
2.02 |
0.70 |
1.64 |
WEST |
2.14 |
1.98 |
1.93 |
1.28 |
1.64 |
1.89 |
1.40 |
1.84 |
1.27 |
2.86 |
1.44 |
2.29 |
0.67 |
1.78 |
Co. |
Hare |
B'ver |
Mu'rat |
Otter |
Mink |
B'cat |
Fox |
Coon |
Skunk |
Sqr'el |
Weasel |
C'yote |
Fisher |
Bear |
Ant. |
2.24 |
2.49 |
2.20 |
1.59 |
1.55 |
2.10 |
1.78 |
2.55 |
2.34 |
2.62 |
1.63 |
2.67 |
0.79 |
1.79 |
Col. |
2.43 |
2.27 |
2.09 |
1.67 |
1.85 |
2.13 |
1.58 |
2.84 |
2.56 |
3.17 |
1.61 |
2.45 |
2.16 |
2.23 |
Cumb. |
2.30 |
2.12 |
1.83 |
1.09 |
1.53 |
1.80 |
1.80 |
2.55 |
2.17 |
2.87 |
1.59 |
2.15 |
1.49 |
2.26 |
Guys. |
1.30 |
2.13 |
1.47 |
1.74 |
1.52 |
1.78 |
1.45 |
1.94 |
1.65 |
2.94 |
1.65 |
2.70 |
0.36 |
1.27 |
H'fax |
1.96 |
1.98 |
1.54 |
1.53 |
1.70 |
1.82 |
1.24 |
1.97 |
1.45 |
2.55 |
1.49 |
2.27 |
0.36 |
1.76 |
Hants |
2.34 |
2.02 |
1.94 |
1.41 |
1.59 |
2.04 |
1.80 |
2.17 |
2.37 |
2.64 |
1.49 |
2.31 |
0.56 |
1.44 |
P'tou |
2.31 |
2.41 |
2.18 |
1.33 |
1.46 |
1.85 |
1.86 |
2.48 |
2.45 |
2.76 |
1.66 |
2.39 |
1.61 |
1.71 |
EAST |
2.18 |
2.19 |
1.89 |
1.42 |
1.60 |
1.91 |
1.65 |
2.38 |
2.13 |
2.78 |
1.58 |
2.36 |
1.17 |
1.85 |
Co. |
Hare |
B'ver |
Mu'rat |
Otter |
Mink |
B'cat |
Fox |
Coon |
Skunk |
Sqr'el |
Weasel |
C'yote |
Fisher |
Bear |
CB |
2.89 |
1.95 |
2.02 |
1.12 |
1.48 |
1.93 |
1.86 |
1.63 |
0.13 |
2.52 |
1.57 |
1.96 |
0.05 |
0.38 |
Inv. |
2.88 |
2.33 |
2.30 |
1.30 |
1.52 |
2.48 |
1.78 |
1.80 |
0.07 |
3.03 |
1.57 |
2.52 |
0.00 |
1.46 |
Rich. |
2.69 |
2.09 |
2.14 |
1.80 |
1.49 |
1.86 |
1.81 |
1.56 |
0.26 |
2.98 |
1.87 |
2.35 |
0.09 |
0.20 |
Vict. |
2.46 |
1.35 |
2.20 |
1.00 |
1.44 |
2.11 |
2.11 |
1.13 |
0.29 |
2.73 |
1.42 |
2.83 |
0.08 |
1.22 |
CB |
2.77 |
2.04 |
2.17 |
1.35 |
1.49 |
2.13 |
1.86 |
1.60 |
0.17 |
2.85 |
1.64 |
2.39 |
0.04 |
0.92 |
Prov. |
2.27 |
2.08 |
1.95 |
1.36 |
1.60 |
1.94 |
1.60 |
2.05 |
1.55 |
2.82 |
1.54 |
2.34 |
0.85 |
1.69 |
Ranks were assigned values as follows: None - 0 Low - 1 Medium - 2 High - 3 Very High - 4
Additional Traps Meet International Standards
The most recent test results from the Fur Institute of Canada's trap research program indicate that
eight more killing traps and three more restraining traps have met the requirements related to
animal welfare as set out in the Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards. This
brings to 18 the number of trapping devices that have met the specific performance thresholds
included in the Agreement.
Bob Carmichael, chairman of the Institute's Trap Research and Development Committee, said
that "...these latest results are very encouraging for Canadian trappers and trap manufacturers as
many of the devices are those currently being used for various species."
Newly added to the growing list are the Woodstream Conibear 330, used on land for beaver and
lynx, as well as the Woodstream Conibear 330 modified for lynx. The modification, which adds
power to the Conibear 330, is one that trappers can make themselves to the standard trap by
welding flat steel bars to the striking frames. The flat bars are 19.7 cm long, 1.6 cm wide, and 0.6
mm thick. The four killing traps listed for marten are new additions, as are the two leghold traps
for lynx and the footsnare for bobcat.
Expert trappers across Canada are working with the Fur Institute of Canada and the Vegreville,
Alberta-based Trap Effectiveness Research Team on this important and ongoing trap testing
program. More test results are expected later this year. Mr. Carmichael said that "...this latest
announcement is another step toward meeting the Institute's objective of ensuring that the best
possible furbearer capture technology is available to Canadian trappers."
The Institute will update the list of trapping devices that meet specific performance requirements
of the Standards as trap testing is completed and the results evaluated.
International Humane Trapping Standards
The list on the opposite page applies to traps meeting specific performance requirements as set
out in the Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards. They are subject to
certification by the provincial and territorial governments and those aboriginal agencies that are
sanctioned to regulate trapping methods. - The Fur Institute of Canada
Killing Traps
These traps meet the time to loss of consciousness and sensibility thresholds as set out in the
Agreement. Killing traps similar to those listed and produced by other manufacturers could meet
these standards provided that their mechanical performance is higher than or equal to a reference
trap for each species.
Beaver |
Woodstream, Conibear 330 - underwater and on land
Woodstream, Conibear 330 modified - underwater |
Weasel |
Victor, Rat Trap |
Fisher |
Sauvageau, 2001-8 |
Marten |
Sauvageau 2001-5
Sauvageau C120 Magnum
Belisle Super X 120
LDL B120 Magnum |
Muskrat |
Woodstream, Conibear 120 - on land
Jaw-type leghold trap - with submersion system |
Lynx |
Woodstream, Conibear 330
Woodstream, Conibear 330 modified |
Raccoon |
Woodstream, Conibear 160
Woodstream, Conibear 220 |
Restraining Traps
These traps meet the injury and behavioral thresholds as set out in the Agreement.
Lynx |
Victor #3 Soft Catch equipped with 4 coil springs
Victor #3 equipped with 3/16 inch jaw laminations and 4 coil springs |
Bobcat |
Belisle foot snare |
Coyote |
Belisle foot snare |
Editor's Note:
The traps listed in the above press release from the Fur Institute of Canada have been shown to
meet the requirements related to animal welfare as set out in the Agreement on International
Humane Trapping Standards. Certification for use in Canadian jurisdictions is the responsibility of
the wildlife management authorities of the provinces and territories. The certification process is
currently under development by the Canadian Furbearer Management Committee (a committee of
representatives from the wildlife agencies of each of the provinces and territories). Certification
will most certainly also include consideration of such factors as capture efficiency and user safety,
in addition to animal welfare performance requirements.
Black Bear in Nova Scotia
By Vince Power
The Province issued 614 bear hunting licenses in 1998; of these, 220 hunters (35.8 per cent)
reported having harvested a bear. The 11 per cent increase in success rate over 1997 means a 35
per cent increase in kill. Of the 142 trappers who pursued bear in 1998, 65 (45.5 per cent)
reported having snared a bear.
Bear hunters who chose to carry a firearm in pursuit of a bruin required an average of 17.2 days
afield to harvest a bear in 1998; this compares with 26.9 days afield in 1997. Bow hunters
averaged 23.3 days afield to be successful in 1998 compared with 21.7 days in 1997. Trappers
averaged 24.9 snare nights per bear in 1998; due to problems with our reporting system, the 1997
results are unavailable. Archers accounted for 16.6 per cent of the total harvest in 1998, down
from 22.4 per cent in 1997. Firearm users increased their portion of the total take to 83.4 per cent
in 1998 compared with 77.6 per cent in 1997.
Age profiles derived from the premolar teeth submitted by successful hunters and trappers is still
the most significant biological information we have on bears in the province. Young male bears
(less than five years), have averaged 55 per cent of the total harvest since 1996. Females older
than five years - in their prime breeding age - have averaged only 10.4 per cent of the total take
over the same period.
Hunters and trappers should anticipate the 1999 season to be much like the last two. Three out of
every ten hunters will probably take a bear, as will almost half of those setting bear snares. The
age profiles continue to indicate that our prime breeding animals are not being over-exploited, and
better than half the animals taken this year should be young males.
Nova Scotia Bear Harvest, 1990-1998
|
Hunting Licenses |
Calculated
Hunter
Harvest |
Mean
Hunter
Success |
Snaring
Permits |
Calculated
Snaring
Harvest |
Non-Hunting
Related
Mortalities |
Resident |
Non-Resident |
1990 |
245 |
13 |
99 |
35.20% |
111 |
57 |
18 |
1991 |
364 |
10 |
178 |
47.60% |
102 |
53 |
26 |
1992 |
239 |
30 |
76 |
29.70% |
104 |
43 |
15 |
1993 |
286 |
44 |
111 |
44.24% |
129 |
60 |
29 |
1994 |
481 |
37 |
232 |
44.84% |
181 |
110 |
40 |
1995 |
708 |
81 |
255 |
32.41% |
227 |
91 |
41 |
1996 |
656 |
102 |
222 |
29.33% |
184 |
67 |
30 |
1997 |
540 |
116 |
163 |
24.81% |
162 |
66 |
19 |
1998 |
505 |
109 |
220 |
35.77% |
142 |
65 |
30 |
Trap Standards - Update on the EU Agreement and Canadian Trap
Standards
By Mike O'Brien
In late 1997, the European Union (EU), Canada, and Russia signed the Agreement on
International Humane Trapping Standards (IAHTS). This Agreement averted the implementation
of European legislation that would have prohibited the importing of 13 species of wild furs into
Europe from Canada. The effects of such a ban would have been very serious, affecting all our
major furbearing species except mink and fox. Likely even the market for these would have been
indirectly affected. The industry has been seeking and developing alternate markets (for example
Asian countries), but the European market currently accounts for approximately 70 per cent of
the market for Canadian wild fur. Recent gains in Asian markets have been significantly affected
by the economic uncertainty in that region. The industry has been dealt a further serious blow by
market losses as a result of the severe downturn in the Russian economy.
The United States had previously withdrawn from the official Canada-EU-Russia negotiations. In
late 1997, the Americans concluded a separate understanding with the EU which is similar to the
one agreed to by Canada, though a bit more lenient. As a result, complications and negative
effects of having US fur blocked out of EU markets were also averted. However, the greater
leniency in the US agreement on such issues as implementation schedules is frustrating from a
Canadian perspective. Federal diplomatic officials in Ottawa indicate that we will not be able to
obtain such changes to our Agreement.
A major event in the implementation of the IAHTS occurred on June 1 of this year, with the
ratification of the Agreement by Canada on a bilateral basis with the EU. The bilateral option had
been included to allow for the Agreement to move forward in the event that Russia was unable to
ratify within a reasonable time period. It became apparent earlier this year that due to its economic
and political situation, it was unlikely that Russia would be able to ratify within the near future.
After careful consideration of the options available, including the risks and uncertainties of leaving
the Agreement un-ratified in the face of upcoming changes in the EU administration, the various
Canadian stakeholders asked the federal government to proceed with bilateral ratification. Prior to
ratification, consultations had taken place with our US and Russian partners. The separate US
agreement with the EU only went into effect in the event of ratification by Canada, Russia, and
the EU. However, after Canada's ratification in June, the US decided in August to also bring their
agreement in to force as of June 1, 1999. Canada will continue to make every effort to encourage
and support Russian ratification at the earliest possible opportunity.
The signing of this Agreement with the EU has kept the critical European marketplace open to
Canadian furs. However, it was reached only at considerable cost to the wild fur producing
nations. With the initialing of the original Agreement in 1997, we became obligated to ban the use
of conventional steel-jawed leghold restraining traps not later than the end of the 2000-01
trapping season - regardless of whether or not the traps would otherwise pass thresholds set for
restraining trap standards, (which is very likely for some species). The bilateral ratification of the
Agreement on June 1, 1999 started the clock ticking on the schedule for testing of various other
restraining and killing trap systems against the standards in the IAHTS. Significant effort and
expense over a relatively short time frame will continue to be required to test and improve current
systems, as well as to develop new traps and trapping systems. Without such an effort, trappers
will not be able to continue efficiently harvesting wild furbearers. After testing and development
are completed, the cost to trappers of retooling with traps which meet the standards mandated by
this Agreement may be considerable. A report on traps which have so far been shown to meet the
animal welfare requirements of the Agreement is included elsewhere in this issue of Trappers
Newsletter.
On the positive side the markets are still open, and we can certainly be proud of the many capable
representatives from the various players in the fur industry (such as governments, the Fur Institute
of Canada, trapper organizations, fur auctions, fur farmers, etc.) who have made, and continue to
make, important contributions toward dealing with this situation. Unfortunately, this is not simply
an issue of science, factual information, and technological improvement, but also of animal rights,
public relations campaigns, strong emotions, and politics. And though the threat to the EU
markets may have been successfully resolved, the lobby groups will undoubtedly continue their
attacks on the industry in other arenas. Canada's leadership in humane trap standards, trapping
system development, fur harvester training, furbearer conservation and management, and in
implementing this Agreement are strong demonstrations of our commitment to humane,
sustainable furbearer resource utilization. Our efforts will also be invaluable assets in combating
propaganda campaigns against management and use of wild furbearer populations.
In late September 1997, a meeting was held in Quebec City between representatives of federal,
provincial, and territorial government agencies, aboriginal peoples, and trappers to discuss the
implications and requirements of the Agreement. Discussion centered around timetables and
options available for complying with the Agreement, along with such issues as direction and
funding for required trap testing, research, and certification, and coordination between different
jurisdictions. While the federal government coordinated negotiations and signed the Agreement on
behalf of Canada, the actual mandate for managing furbearing species rests with the provincial,
territorial, and aboriginal land claim governments. Consequently, only they can implement the
requirements of the Agreement, and approaches for doing this may vary between jurisdictions.
Following the meeting in Quebec, discussions between the various jurisdictions and interest
groups on implementation and coordination have continued both nationally and internationally.
The Trap Research and Development Committee of the Fur Institute of Canada is leading the trap
testing and development work for our country. Its primary goal is to ensure that effective,
economical, safe, and humane traps are available for Canadian trappers. The FIC also plays a key
role in facilitating many other processes and activities necessary for the implementation of the
Agreement. The Canadian Furbearer Management Committee (a national committee comprised of
representatives from each of the provincial and territorial government wildlife agencies, that
reports to the wildlife directors) has been working on various issues to ensure harmonization and
coordination of interpretation and implementation of the Agreement in the various Canadian
jurisdictions. The process for certification of traps as required in the Agreement is currently under
development. This group also advises the wildlife directors on furbearer management related
issues, and provides representation for the provincial and territorial jurisdictions at various
international meetings pertaining to the implementation of the Agreement.
The Canadian Wildlife Directors are moving ahead with the formation and mandating of the
Canadian Management Committee for the implementation of the IAHTS. From that group will
come direction on the composition of the Canadian delegation to the IAHTS Joint Management
Committee, as well as on the actual work eventually undertaken by that delegation. It is being
suggested that Canada should offer to host the first Joint Management Committee meeting, which
the Agreement requires to take place by June, 2000.
Trappers and trapper organizations continue (along with other stakeholders when appropriate) to play key roles in various aspects of the efforts surrounding this Agreement: participation in FIC
activities and committees, cooperation in trap testing, research and development, delivery and
development of furharvester education, representation on international delegations, and direct
input to provincial and territorial governments. This work is being done in close cooperation with
US and Russian counterparts to ensure coordination of efforts and sharing of information. Anyone
wanting more details on the EU Agreement and how it will affect trappers here and in other parts
of Canada, as well as information on trap research and development or related topics, should
contact the Furbearers and Upland Game Section of the Wildlife Division, Nova Scotia
Department of Natural Resources (contact information inside the front cover of Trappers
Newsletter).
It had been hoped that the Canadian General Standards Board Humane Trap Standards process
would be completed by now. Representatives of trapper organizations, native peoples,
governments, the Fur Institute of Canada, trap manufacturers, humane trap researchers, animal
welfare groups, and other interested parties have been meeting regularly since the summer of
1995. After considerable effort, a standard for killing traps on land was agreed to, and received
final committee ratification in 1997. Work continued on Canadian standards for restraining and
submersion devices. Drafts of both standards had been approved in principle at committee
meetings held in Halifax in April 1997. A follow-up meeting in Calgary in fall 1997 failed to
complete this work. Revised drafts were completed following that meeting, but have been put on
hold pending certain decisions about the implementation of the IAHTS and the results of some of
the testing efforts related to that initiative. Canada is a world leader in humane trap research and
development, and is the first country to develop and implement a trap standards process. Even
with the implementation of the EU Agreement it is still important that our Canadian Standards
process be completed and in place. These are the only standards developed by Canadians for
Canadians, and will stay in place regardless of whether the EU Agreement remains in force or is
terminated by any party at some future date. Trappers have played an important role in these
efforts, a fact of which we can be justifiably proud. Current Nova Scotia representatives on the
Canadian General Standards Board Trap Standards Committee are Paul Tufts from the Trappers
Association of Nova Scotia and Mike O'Brien from the Department of Natural Resources.
Anyone with questions about the Canadian standards process should contact either of the above.
Undoubtedly the fur industry faces difficulties now and in the future. However, continued hard work and cooperation between government, fur harvesters, and other players in the industry
should ensure the wise use of this natural resource, as well as the survival of a distinctly Canadian
industry and way of life.
Trappers Association of Nova Scotia
Application for Membership
I hereby apply for membership in the Trappers Association of Nova Scotia and I agree to abide by
its bylaws.
(Please Print)
Date __________________________
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Town, City, etc. ___________________________________________________________
County ____________________ Province _____________ Postal Code ___________
(Your complete address is important)
Occupation ______________________________________________________________
Age _________________ Approx. number of years trapping ____________________
Please check one: Renewal ________ New Member _________
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Please Send me the following:
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T-shirts @$15.00 each $ _________________
plus postage and handling cover (per order): $ 3.00 Total $ _________________
Hats (adjustable size) come in orange and other colours. Indicate colour preferred.
Please send payment with application to: Trappers Association of Nova Scotia
R.R. #2 New Ross, NS BOJ 2M0
Nuisance Wildlife Operators Association
By Mike Larade, President, NWOANS
Trapping nuisance wildlife has historically been under government jurisdiction. In 1993, it was
opened up to private business. The Nuisance Wildlife Operators Association of Nova Scotia
(NWOANS) was formed about four years ago with the goal of establishing a code of ethics wand
working guidelines for this area of work. The Association also looks after the interests of the
nuisance wildlife operators across the province in dealing with government regulations, and in
determining what steps should be taken to ensure the best interests of the animals and the public
are served.
The NWOANS is open to anyone who is licensed nuisance wildlife operator in Nova Scotia. We
meet annually (on the last weekend in April), and have demonstrations at the meetings, as well as
a representative from the Department of Natural Resources present. One of our latest initiatives
is working to set up a training course specifically geared toward nuisance animals.
Many challenges lie ahead for the nuisance wildlife industry, including inevitable scrutiny from the
media and the public and promoting the fur industry as a viable wildlife management tool. Our
focus must remain on education, both for our clients and the general public.
Membership in the Association costs $20 a year, and applications can be sent to:
Nuisance Wildlife Operators
Association of Nova Scotia
P.O. Box 25023
Halifax, NS
B3M 4H4
FUR MARKETING INFORMATION
North American Fur
Producers Marketing Inc.
(formerly Hudsons Bay Fur Sales)
65 Skyway Ave., Rexdale, Ontario M9W 6C7
Phone: 416-675-9320
Nova Scotia Representative
Furafee Trading Inc.
115 Brunswick St., Truro, N.S. B2N 4P6
Phone: 902-895-2511
Fur Harvesters Auction Inc.
Fur Harvesters auction Sales Inc.
1971 Bond St., North Bay, Ont. P1B 4V7
705-495-4688
Maritime Representative,
Larry Estabrooks Maritime Depot
Comp 14, Site 3, R.R.9
Fredericton, New Brunswick
Phone: 506-453-0618
Fur Harvesters Auction Inc. Annual Convention March 24,25 and 26, 2000
1999-2000 Auction Dates:
Sale Date: December 16, 1999
Last Receiving Date:
Wild Fur - November 29, 1999
Sale Date: February 24-25, 2000
Last Receiving Date:
Wild Fur - January 10, 2000
Sale Date: May 17-18, 2000
Last Receiving Date:
Wild Fur - April 3, 2000
1999-2000 Auction Dates:
Sale Date: December 13, 1999
Last Receiving Date: November 27, 1999
Sale Date: February 13, 2000
Last Receiving Date: January 8, 2000
Sale Date: April 18, 2000
Last Receiving Date: April 1, 2000
Sale Date: June 6, 2000
Last Receiving Date: May 18, 2000
Note: Depots will have earlier last receiving dates; please check with the depot nearest to you for more information.
Fisher Study Continues
By Derek Potter
Folks in the Parrsboro and Collingwood areas of the province have undoubtedly noticed a half ton truck with a tv antenna mounted on the roof driving around. Many have stared as they were driving by, and some have stopped to ask what was going on. The truck, along with its various attachments, is part of a study on fisher habitat use. The information gained from the study will contribute to a better understanding of the factors affecting fisher populations in the province.
At the urging of the Trappers Association of Nova Scotia (TANS), the Department of Natural Resources began a project to reintroduce fishers to areas of their former range within the province. Along the way, the researchers hope to learn more about this species' habitat needs, as well as movement patterns. Examination of the variables associated with reintroducing this forest carnivore into new territory will help to pinpoint the factors which contribute to a successful release. This is especially important if the emphasis on re-introductions as a means of species conservation is to continue.
During the 1998-99 fur harvest season, a few trappers in Cumber-land and Colchester counties
were paid to live trap fishers for the project. Animals were held at the Melynx fur ranch in Maccan
until such time as they could be transferred to the Wildlife Park at Shubenacadie. Most of the
animals were held there until they could be fitted with radio collars, then were released and
monitored.
Originally, captured fishers were to be relocated to central areas of the province (possibly Halifax
or Hants counties) in order to provide a connection between eastern and western populations.
This would also help to bolster the provincial population as a whole. However, in collaboration
with the Biology Department at Acadia University, it was decided that it would be better to learn
more about what the animals do in their home areas before releasing them into new ones.
Hopefully data gathered in the home areas will help in determining whether their movements in
new areas is the result of it being an unfamiliar environment, or is simply a part of an individual's
normal habits.
A total of twelve animals were live trapped and fitted with radio collars so that their location
could be determined after release. Toward the end of April, seven of these animals were released
in the area surrounding the Chignecto Game Sanctuary, while five more were released near
Collingwood; the latter were left as close as possible to their capture site, but spring road
conditions made it impossible to reach the actual capture site on several occasions. Two of the
Collingwood animals slipped their collars only a few days after their release, and three more
individuals have not been found since they were released. This is possibly because they have
moved too far away for the signal from their collar transmitters to be picked up. The remaining
seven animals are providing useful information with respect to habitat choice and activity patterns.
Department personnel have been monitoring these animals on a daily basis since early May, and
will continue to do so into the fall. Each animal's position is determined by the use of a receiver
which can be tuned to the frequency of the collars. Since each collar has a separate frequency, one
animal can be distinguished from another. The collar antennae which were used are directional;
therefore, by pointing the antenna in the direction of the strongest signal, it is possible to tell the
direction to the animal. Changing the receiver's position by moving the truck further along the
road allows three bearings to be taken. The animal's position is the point at which the resulting
three lines intersect.
Each animal has been located an average of thirty times so far, thus giving a fairly good
representation of their home range. Using this information in conjunction with data in the
province's GIS forestry database should also help to determine the fishers' preferred habitat.
While data analysis has yet to be performed, home range sizes seem to be about 17 to 20 square
kilometres for males, and 5 to 10 square kilometres for females. The habitat most often used
includes both mixed forest and coniferous stands. The age of these stands has yet to be
determined, but the animals seem to travel and presumably hunt in both early and late-aged forest.
Some of the animals in the study are often found along streams and their associated valleys, while
others seem to ignore watercourses. No other geographic feature stands out as a preferred
attraction.
Each animal has also been 'followed' for at least one full 24 hour period, with a location recorded
each half-hour. This has been done in order to ascertain the periods of peak activity, the paths the
aimals use to get from one area to the next, and how quickly the animals travel. Peak activity
includes the periods between 4 a.m. and 9 a.m., and 7 p.m. and 10 p.m., although they have
traveled during midday as well. Males seem to travel further with more rest areas than females,
who seem to use the same rest area or den site for several days, venturing out from it to hunt at
dawn and dusk. One male traveled a total distance of 16 kilometres during a single day, and was capable of covering one kilometre per half hour over a six hour period.
This fall, the collared animals will be trapped again and relocated along with other individuals to areas in the central part of the province. By attempting to extend the population, it is hoped to eventually connect the eastern and western populations. This linking of the two populations will enable fishers to inhabit most of their former range in Nova Scotia. Along with several years worth of harvest location data, the information provided by this study in Cumberland and Colchester counties will provide a good idea as to where fishers should be released in order to increase their chances of survival.
Where are the Lynx?
The Canada Lynx was once very common on Cape Breton Island. Competition with bobcat and
coyote, along with other factors, has contributed to a significant population decline in recent
years. DNR staff are trying to determine the present range and numbers of lynx on the island.
As a trapper, you can help in several ways:
- Carefully release any live lynx accidentally captured in a trap.
- Report any lynx accidentally killed in a trap to your local DNR office.
- Keep a written record of where and when you see lynx or lynx sign during the trapping season.
Return it along with your Fur Harvester Report at the end of the trapping season. The form at the
bottom of this page can be used to record your information.
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