1. United States
2. Wyo.
3. Letter

The proposal to remove otters from Wyoming's list of protected animals is concerning and short-sighted. Otters play a vital role in maintaining healthy aquatic and riparian ecosystems. Their recovery in Wyoming has been slow but steady after being nearly extirpated in the past. Allowing them to be trapped again for their fur could reverse this fragile progress. While some may view otters as a nuisance due to rare confrontations or impacts on privately stocked fish ponds, the ecological benefits they provide by moving nutrients and supporting biodiversity far outweigh these minor issues. Responsible wildlife stewardship means allowing keystone species like otters to recover and flourish across their native ranges. Otters are a valuable part of Wyoming's natural heritage. Instead of opening a renewed trapping season, we should celebrate their return and ensure robust otter populations can be enjoyed by future generations. I urge you to oppose this misguided proposal and keep otters protected under state law.