Animal Groups Protest Hunting Traps in Taiwan, Urge Presidential Action

Animal welfare advocates are calling for a ban on hunting traps and snares, which they say pose a significant threat to wildlife and domestic animals in Taiwan. The groups are protesting the use of such devices, which they claim have injured protected species including pangolins, Taiwan black bears, leopard cats, and muntjacs, as well as innocent pet dogs.

These methods, often used in traditional hunting practices in mountainous areas, are criticized for their indiscriminate nature. Activists argue that the traps do not differentiate between target game and endangered animals, leading to accidental deaths and injuries among Taiwan's vulnerable wildlife.

Following the rejection of a public referendum on the issue by the Central Election Commission, the animal welfare organizations have shifted their strategy. They are now encouraging citizens to send individual letters to the president, urging government action to prohibit the use of these harmful hunting tools. The campaign aims to raise public awareness and pressure policymakers to enact stricter regulations to protect animals.