Proposition 127, which introduces the idea of banning all intentional killings of mountain lions, lynx, and bobcats, will be included on Colorado’s upcoming ballot. The exceptions include the need to protect life, property, or livestock from these animals.
One of the main arguments that sides with passing this proposition is the belief of a small population of mountain lions. According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the population of mountain lions in Colorado is estimated to be around 3,800-4,400. Mark Vieira, Colorado Parks and Wildlife Carnivor and Furbearer program manager said, “These animals aren’t endangered or threatened in any way.” Mountain lions and bobcats are not endangered in Colorado, but Lynx are. In fact, Lynx have been listed as a state-endangered species since 1976. Lynx are currently protected in Colorado and therefore cannot be killed by hunters.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife has also stated that there has been an increase in mountain lion sightings in the past two years. There have also been a few high-profile attacks of mountain lions on humans. Avid hunter Blake Johnson (26), said “Without hunters reducing the predator population, there could be more to attack people and their animals.” Johnson believes that hunters are important to the balance of wildlife conservation.
Mountain lions prey on animals such as deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and other species of small wildlife. Hunting is a common activity in the Eaton community, and many students of Eaton High School like to spend their free time doing so. The most well known tags include deer and elk. The proposition could affect this hobby for students and their families because it will cause an increase in the mountain lion population. If the population is high, it will result in a decrease in the population of deer and elk. “Mountain lions are the predators, and they are gonna start killing all of the elk,” said Garret Hembree (26). “There will be less elk for us to hunt.” The elk and deer populations are already facing a decline in their numbers, and this will continue if the proposition is passed. People who are against Proposition 127 fear that the ecological balance will be damaged if hunting is only permitted for certain animals.
Another argument for this proposition is the use of dogs by hunters, which help to tree the mountain lions. People believe this practice to be inhumane because they think it is wrong to use trained animals to help kill wild ones. This practice is often misconcepted by people who don’t fully understand what takes place. The trained dog does not kill the mountain lion but instead chases it up a tree for the hunter to see. Mountain lion hunting can also be seen as a “trophy hunt,” as some hunters only kill them for their fur and skull. This is not true among all hunters, as some use it as table fare. “I have family friends that trap bobcats,” said Eaton teacher Mrs.Cochran. “It’s not trophy hunting because they use everything for a purpose.” Mrs. Cochran is a passionate hunter, and she lives a life where hunting provides the meat for her family.
