West Virginia -(Ammoland.com)- The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds that various trapping and small game seasons are ending soon.
The hunting and trapping seasons for red and gray fox, bobcat, and raccoon will end Feb. 29, 2016. The trapping seasons for coyote, otter, mink and muskrat also will end Feb. 29, 2016. Trapping season for beaver continues until March 31, 2016.
Beaver trappers are reminded that it is illegal to set traps during the month of March for beaver unless those traps are in water. Trappers should be aware that it is illegal to set traps or leave traps set after noon on the last day of the respective season.
All beaver, bobcat, otter and fisher pelts are required to be checked in within 30 days of the close of their respective season. Hunters and trappers can check game one of the following three ways:
1) Internet – www.wvhunt.com
2) Stopping at any license agent (You will not have to bring the animal with you.)
3) Telephone – Call 1-844-WVCHECK (1-844-982-4325)
Trappers, hunters and fur dealers are reminded that furs shipped out of West Virginia must have a fur shipping tag, which is available at DNR district offices. Also, anyone who plans to sell an otter or bobcat pelt outside of the state of West Virginia should obtain a Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) seal for each pelt. All otter and bobcat pelts, usually exported from the United States by licensed fur buyers, must have a CITES seal from the state where the animal was harvested.
The public is reminded that now, before the trapping season ends, would be a good time to deal with nuisance furbearer problems. Trappers may be more likely to assist landowners with nuisance problems while their gear is in working order and pelts are prime.