Washington halts fox trapping in National Forests to protect endangered Cascade Red Fox

OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife announced an immediate closure on fox trapping within the boundaries of several national forests to safeguard the endangered Cascade red fox. Effective immediately, the temporary rule will last until March 31, 2024, and applies to all fox species in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie, Okanogan, Wenatchee, and Gifford Pinchot national forests.

The urgent measure aims to prevent the incidental capture of the Cascade red fox, a species recognized as endangered within the state of Washington. Officials underscored the necessity of the temporary regulation due to the lack of time for implementing permanent rules.