Protecting Endangered Foxes: Public Comment Period Open

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife reported on Wednesday that it is mulling stricter wildlife trapping restrictions to protect endangered Cascade red foxes.

The Cascade red fox is found only in Washington and occupies subalpine and alpine habitats in the southern Cascade Mountain Range, according to the WDFW. In Washington, it was classified as endangered in 2023.

If the proposed rule is adopted, fox trapping would be closed within the exterior boundaries of the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie, Okanogan, Wenatchee, and Gifford Pinchot national forests this year and in future trapping seasons, the department reports further.

“Fox trapping was closed in these locations last season due to an emergency rule the Department filed in February,” said Stephanie Landry, WDFW carnivore section manager. “If the current proposal is adopted, it would establish the same restrictions as a permanent rule.”

As an endangered species, it is illegal to harass, harm, or kill a Cascade red fox, the WDFW reports further.

“The Cascade red fox is indistinguishable from other red foxes except through genetic testing, so a trapping restriction for all foxes in the locations where these sub-species’ territories overlap helps protect the endangered foxes from accidental take,” said Hannah Anderson, WDFW wildlife diversity division manager.

The public is invited to comment on the proposed rule through Aug. 9 via web form, by email, by phone (855-925-2801, project code 7087), or by mailing written comments to Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife ATTN: Wildlife Program, PO Box 43200, Olympia, WA 98504.

A decision is tentatively scheduled for the September meeting, according to the WDFW.