After two Canada lynx were killed because of traps, the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (IFW) implemented an immediate change in trapping regulations through an emergency provision.
According to James Connolly, IFW Bureau of Resource Management director, immediate measures were taken to significantly reduce the chances that another lynx will be killed by a trap. The new regulations were enacted swiftly thanks to the emergency provision in the incidental take plan for the unintended catching of Canadian lynx.
This means effective immediately, deadly traps commonly used for catching marten and fisher will no longer be allowed above snow or ground level in areas of Maine where lynx are found, most especially Wildlife Management Districts (WMD) 1 to 11, 14, 18, and 19. However, in WMDs 7, 14, 18 and 19, traps less than 7 inches in size may be used on the ground as long as the traps are enclosed by lynx exclusion devices. Foothold traps above snow or ground level are prohibited in the mentioned WMDs.
Out of the two lynx deaths, one was reported by a trapper to the Warden Service according to regulations and incidental take permit conditions. The other was discovered by a Maine Game Warden during a scheduled check of traps in the township of St. Croix. Traps involved in the deaths were deemed in compliance of trapping regulations though.
"Although trapping related deaths are uncommon, we have worked diligently with Maine trappers in order to change the regulations to protect lynx. We are committed to protecting Maine's lynx population," said Connolly.
Brian Cogill, Maine Trappers Association president, said their association supports the department's efforts at protecting lynx, adding trappers have always understood and believed that the IFW's measures are needed to protect the lynx population in the state. As the Department continues developing long-term regulations for trappers, the Association looks forward to working with the agency this season and beyond.
Under the Federal Endangered Species Act, lynx are threatened species. Back in 2006, the lynx population in Maine was estimated to be anywhere from 750 to 1,000. The IFW increased protection in areas where lynx have been spotted and will be surveying the population this winter for more accurate numbers.
The lynx population in Maine is a subset of Canada's larger lynx population. Maine lynx are still seen from time to time interacting with lynx from Canada.
