I have a couple questions about getting into trapping. I have wanted to get a license for trapping for quite some time but got delayed when I started my own business a few years back & now may be able to use trapping as a source of revenue but would like to get some feedback 1st.
1- Can you trap for yourself privately & as a business owner could I then trap as a business too? Some of my customers have mole & raccoon problems.
2- What is the best legal way to put critters down once caught?
3- Can I legally sell the furs & what is the process to do so?
Thanks in advance for any input
You can trap privately with a trapping license. You will have to take the Trapper Ed class and pass the test or challenge the course at a regional office.
I assume when you ask about a business you are talking about trapping for hire. You will need to take the Wildlife Control Operators class and be permitted as a WCO in addition to your trapping license to do this.
I will add because of your last sentence I do not think there is a legal and effective way to trap moles in WA. There are illegal methods that seem to get a pass when homeowners violate the law. WCOs are held to a higher standard though and you may be flirting with prosecution if you use illegal mole traps.
Dispatch is a mixed bag depending on the circumstances. In populated areas gassing with CO2 is the preferred method for terrestrial animals. Water animals are often trapped in underwater traps which takes care of dispatch. Outside populated areas a small caliber firearm is usually used for terrestrial animals. Skunks are normally dispatched with CO2 or lethal injection.
You can legally sell the furs during season. Outside the season if you are a WCO you can keep them for personal or educational purposes.
Bobcats and otters must be CITES tagged within 20 days of the close of the season and a report of catch must be submitted within 20 days of the end of season. Other then that once you have caught them they are yours to sell whenever and to whomever you wish. There are a couple furbuyers in the State and Receiving agents for NAFA and FHA. Those are fur auction firms. You will almost assuredly have to learn how to process the furs for sale. That is covered when you take Trapper Education.
