Along with several small game seasons being currently ongoing, trapping of furbearing animals is also ongoing.

Iowa Department of Natural Resources Conservation Officer Jeremy King says that there are a few things that help to determine the number of trapping licenses that are issued, including the price of furs. He tells Raccoon Valley Radio that different furs have different prices, and shares on what has been in demand recently.

“It dictates a lot on how many fur harvesters licenses we sell, and how many people are trapping. But the fur market this year, if you have a prime raccoon and you finish it, might bring three, four or five dollars for a good raccoon pelt. Well, the hot one this year for whatever reason was skunk. And so a good skunk right now is bringing between $30 and $45 for a good skunk pelt.”

King mentions that many trapping licenses aren’t acquired by those who solely are trappers, but by those who are hunters and wanting to be able to take the opportunity to collect furbearing animals while hunting. He adds that for those who wish to take part in trapping, it’s important to make sure they know the regulations as well.