More Animal Traps certified in Canada which meet the International Welfare Standards
The Fur Institute of Canada’s (FIC) trap research and testing program has recently determined that 11 more species-specific animal traps have met the requirements of the Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards (AIHTS). This mandatory treaty was negotiated and ratified by Canada, the European Union and Russia in 1999 and sets out animal welfare thresholds for a list of 19 species taken for reasons of animal control, fur or meat, as well as for research and conservation programs.
Added to the current FIC certified trap list is one new beaver trap, two otter traps and one ermine trap all of which meet the AIHTS welfare thresholds to render a quick and humane death for those animals trapped for the reasons mentioned.
The AIHTS also requires that all restraining type traps used to capture the listed species be certified as complying with the welfare thresholds. The FIC’s Trap Research and Development Committee (TRDC) co-operates with the USA Best Management Practices Group to share trap testing data to avoid unnecessary duplication. As a result of both USA and FIC field testing two new foot hold traps used to capture coyotes and five new bobcat traps are in compliance with the AIHTS. In addition one new “encapsulating foot trap” used to capture raccoon in semi rural areas has met the Standards. Such devices are ‘dog proof’ in that pets walking off leash in areas where raccoon traps can be legally set cannot accidentally, and unintentionally, capture a dog.
Randy Mersereau, Chairman of the FIC’s TRDC said that “the addition of these 11 trapping devices to the 154 already in compliance with the AIHTS requirements is proof-positive that Canada has, and is, making major progress in implementing the mandatory Treaty”. Mersereau stated that “the FIC trap research and testing program will continue over the coming years and more species-specific AIHTS approved traps will be made available for individuals engaged in projects related to the wise and sustainable use of wildlife resources”.
Funding for the AIHTS related trap research and testing program is provided by Environment Canada, the International Fur Trade Federation, other industry interests and several provinces provide significant in-kind resources to assist the program in meeting its objectives.
The new list of certified animal traps can be obtained from the FIC website at: http://www.fur.ca/files/trap%20list/certified_traps_Oct18_E.pdf
Source: FIC