Proposition 127 on Colorado’s 2024 ballot seeks to ban hunting and trapping of mountain lions, bobcats, and lynxes. This measure comes amid growing debates about wildlife conservation and ethical hunting, with both proponents and opponents presenting strong arguments.
Supporters argue that Proposition 127 is necessary to prevent what they see as unethical trophy hunting practices, where animals are killed for display rather than essential population control or food. Advocates, including some conservation biologists, argue that hunting these wild cats is “unscientific and unethical,” suggesting that hunting with tools like GPS-collared dogs creates an unfair advantage and detracts from the natural ecology. Supporters also point to California, where a similar ban has reportedly maintained stable populations and minimized conflicts without increased attacks on livestock or people. Proposition 127 would limit hunting only to cases where professionals deem animals a safety risk, allowing for more humane wildlife management.
Opponents, including Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) and several hunting advocacy groups, claim that a ban would undermine decades of science-based wildlife management. They argue that hunting helps maintain a balanced population of these cats and prevents them from encroaching into human-populated areas, potentially leading to more human-cat conflicts. Opponents also believe that hunting is not primarily for “trophy” purposes, as hunters are legally required to utilize the meat of hunted mountain lions. They worry that passing this ban might set a broader precedent, affecting management of other wildlife and increasing conservation challenges.
Proposition 127’s outcome could significantly shape wildlife policy in Colorado, impacting future wildlife and land management strategies in the state. We oppose this proposition because it is an unnecessary change to current wildlife management practices that are in the best interest of these big cats.
Here are some additional resources to help you in your decision in this matter: