Hunting with traps with regard to animal welfare, species protection and safety]

The present paper critically examines the subject of huntsmanlike hunting with traps as it is practiced in the Federal Republic of Germany. In this context, consideration is given to the aspects of protection of animals, protection of species and safety for people and domestic animals. Hunting with traps is regarded a necessary element within the legal duties of game preservation. Basically, the focus is placed on efficient hunting of predatory animals that are mainly active at night such as foxes, raccoons and martenlike beasts. Trapping instruments and catching methods that respect the above mentioned aspects are presented. The legislator is requested to set up binding quality standards for the traps to be used. Special training for all trappers with a final examination in theory and practice is considered inevitable.