Wild animals including Raccoon, Muskrat, Mink, Beaver, Coyote, Red Fox and Opossum are harvested for their fur and are often caught with leg traps. Our Humane Society estimates that 100 million animals are killed for fur each year – 85% of which come from fur farms. Anti-fur advocates contend the steel jaw leg-hold trap is a painful, inhumane and nonselective way to trap wild animals. Animals caught in this trap often further injure themselves trying to escape before finally dying. Even if released, they may perish later from internal injuries or reduced ability to hunt or forage for food. It is estimated that these traps catch and kill two unwanted animals for every animal that is targeted. These unintended victims include golden and bald eagles, hawks and other birds, rabbits, sage grouse, deer, antelope, porcupines, sheep, calves and family pets.

Pending Legislation: H.R.5217 - Refuge From Cruel Trapping Act
Sponsor: Rep. Jerrold Nadler (NY)
Status: House Committee on Natural Resources
Chair: Rep. Bruce Westerman (AR)