Two Ontario trappers have been fined a total of $5,700 for unlawful trapping practices, including abandoning a bear and a wolf in traps. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry announced the penalties on Friday, following investigations into separate incidents.
Details of the incidents
In the first case, a trapper from the Sudbury area was fined $2,500 after a bear was found dead in an abandoned trap. The trapper failed to check the trap within the required 24-hour period, leaving the animal to suffer. The second case involved a trapper near Thunder Bay who was fined $3,200 for abandoning a wolf in a trap. The wolf was discovered by conservation officers during a routine patrol.
Legal requirements for trappers
Under Ontario law, trappers are required to check their traps at least once every 24 hours and must humanely dispatch any captured animals. Failure to do so can result in fines and the suspension of trapping licenses. The Ministry emphasizes that these regulations are in place to ensure animal welfare and maintain ethical trapping standards.
Both trappers have paid their fines and have had their licenses suspended for a period of time. The Ministry continues to remind all trappers of their responsibilities and the importance of complying with trapping regulations.
