Joe Manchin III, Governor

Frank Jezioro, Director

News Release
For release: January 25, 2005

Hoy Murphy , Public Information Officer (304) 558-3380 hoymurphy@wvdnr.gov

Contact: Curtis Taylor , Wildlife Resources Section Chief (304) 558-2771 wildlife@wvdnr.gov

Trapping Seasons Close

  Trappers are reminded that trapping season for bobcat, foxes, raccoon, coyote, skunk, opossum, weasel, mink and muskrat end at noon on Monday, February 28, 2005 . Beaver season continues through March 31, 2005. Beaver, bobcat and fisher pelts must be tagged at an official game checking station or by a DNR representative within 30 days of the close of the season.

  Beaver, bobcat and mink pelts brought good prices at the West Virginia Trappers Association Auction in January. The next West Virginia Trappers Association Auction is March 4-6, 2005 at the Glenville Recreation Center .

  Trappers should also note that a shipping tag is required for pelts shipped outside the state. Also, any bobcat pelt that may be shipped outside of the United States must be sealed with a CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) tag. Shipping and CITES tags are available at District Offices and the Elkins Operations Center .

**DNR**