Conservation of non-game wildlife in California: A model programme

Public interest prompted the California State Legislature to provide needed authority and precedent-setting mandates for the management and protection of its non-game wildlife resources. Newly established activities and regulations include: research and field surveys on species-specific problems; the introduction of protective categories for threatened or unique species; bag limits and seasons on the taking of any unprotected animal; a moratorium on mountain lion hunting; measures to promote increases in the numbers of the rare Tule elk; curtailment of imported wildlife; a ban on the trade in endangered species; protective measures for intertidal organisms; and land acquisition of areas with important habitats. These constitute a comprehensive programme that merits wider adoption in the USA.