We need your voice to prevent bobcat trapping in Indiana.
In 2024, Indiana lawmakers passed a bill mandating the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to establish a bobcat trapping season by 2025, the first in decades. This decision will allow up to 250 of these elusive and once-endangered wildcats to be trapped and killed in southern Indiana.
Indiana’s bobcats have faced significant challenges over the years, with unregulated hunting and habitat loss leading to their designation as an endangered species in 1969. Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, they were removed from the state’s endangered list in 2005.
Bobcats Trapping Isn’t Necessary
The legislators pushing forward this proposal, despite a clear lack of demand from the public and no scientific evidence to justify it, raises serious ethical concerns. In fact, the state rallied in 2018 to defeat a similar measure.
These legislators claim the bobcat population threatens game like deer, rabbits, and turkeys, but research does not support these claims. Rather, it shows that bobcats play a key role in controlling rodent populations, helping maintain balance in the natural world.
The proposed trapping methods—foothold traps and cable snares—are widely recognized as inhumane. These traps often cause prolonged suffering and can unintentionally capture non-target animals such as pets and endangered species.
Instead of prioritizing the protection of Indiana’s wildlife, this effort seems more aligned with catering to a small group of recreational trappers. Without a comprehensive population survey, there is no solid scientific justification for allowing a hunting or trapping season. Their population is still recovering from coming within a breath of extinction and remains fragile.
January 16th Bobcat Trapping Regulations Public Hearing
Mark your calendars! The Natural Resources Commission (NRC) is holding a critical public hearing on January 16th where you can comment on the proposed quota of 250 bobcats to be trapped and snared. This is an opportunity to make your voice heard and demand a quota of ZERO for bobcat trapping.
Event Details:
- When: January 16th, 5:30 PM
- Where: Johnson County Fairgrounds (Scott Hall), 250 Fairgrounds Street, Franklin, Indiana
If you care about bobcats and their vital role in Indiana’s ecosystems, this is your chance to stand up for them! We want to fill the room with supporters, so please attend if you can.
Can’t Attend? Here’s How You Can Help:
If you’re unable to attend the hearing, you can still make a difference by submitting a written comment:
- Email: Send your comment to abonar@nrc.in.gov
- Online Submission: Use the NRC’s Rulemaking Docket and select “Bobcat Amendments” to submit your feedback.
Even if you’ve already submitted a comment or spoken at the November hearing, your work isn’t done. Encourage at least two friends to participate by submitting a comment or attending the hearing. Additionally, consider writing a letter to the editor of your local newspaper to raise awareness about this issue.
Tips for Writing Your Comment or Testimony
Whether you’re speaking at the hearing or submitting a written comment, here’s a simple outline to follow:
- Introduce Yourself: Share your name and where you’re from.
- Express Your Concern: Explain why you care about bobcats and why you oppose the proposed trapping quota.
- Make Your Ask: Politely and firmly request a bobcat trapping quota of ZERO.
If you need assistance crafting your testimony or comment, send us an email.
Pack the Room for Bobcats!
The Indiana chapter of the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is asking for people to show up at the meeting and rally for bobcats. They will provide buttons for attendees to wear in support of bobcats. Even if you choose not to speak, your presence and visible support can make a huge impact.
It’s time to get loud again. This time, your voice can once again be the difference. The DNR is required to listen to public opinion before making its final decision, and the time to act is now.