New legislation is stirring controversy in Wyoming as the state grapples with defining acceptable treatment of wolves and coyotes. Two draft bills, introduced by Representative Liz Storer on August 28th, aim to clarify the laws regarding the treatment of predatory animals. The move follows a disturbing incident in February where a man ran over a wolf with his snowmobile and brought the injured animal to a local bar.

The Proposed Legislation

The first bill, titled “Animal Abuse/Predatory Animals,” focuses on penalties for intentional harm to predators using vehicles. It mandates that anyone injuring a predator with a vehicle must immediately make “all reasonable efforts” to kill the animal. Failure to do so would result in animal cruelty charges, with increased fines and potential jail time for first-time offenders.

The second bill, “Requirements For The Taking Of Predatory Animals,” addresses predator control by Game and Fish officials. It permits them to kill predatory animals and birds without a license, at any time, using “humane” methods. The department would be required to provide annual reports on the methods used.

A Polarizing Issue

These proposed bills have ignited debate, reflecting deep divisions within the state on the treatment of predators. While some argue the bills don’t go far enough to protect animals, others believe they strike a necessary balance between conservation and predator management.

Representative Storer acknowledged the contentious nature of the issue, stating, “The chasm between what the public thinks we should do to address the legality of wanton animal cruelty in Wyoming and what the committee has been willing to support to date remains quite vast.”

Conservation groups, in particular, have voiced opposition to the legislation. Andrea Zaccardi, Legal Director of the Center for Biological Diversity’s Carnivore Conservation Program, expressed her dismay that the bills fail to explicitly prohibit the use of snowmobiles to chase and run over animals.

The Road Ahead

The Treatment of Predators Working Group, a diverse group of legislators, public agency officials, and representatives from various interest groups, will reconvene on September 4th to review the proposed legislation. The bills will then be presented to the Travel, Recreation, Wildlife and Cultural Resources committee at the end of September.

As Wyoming navigates this complex issue, the outcome of this legislative process remains uncertain. The debate serves as a stark reminder of the challenges inherent in balancing human activities and wildlife conservation in a state where both hold significant value.

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