What Are Furbearers?

Wildlife species that are harvested specifically for their pelts are commonly known as furbearers. Typically, they are harvested in the winter when their furs are in the best condition (called “prime”), but some furbearers may be harvested at other times of the year to control damage they may be causing or for wildlife management purposes, such as relocation and restoration. Although trapping is the primary means of harvesting furbearers, some species may also be hunted during established seasons.

Furbearers are important for a number of reasons.

• Economically, they are valuable for furs, meat, and by-products, such as perfume and fishing lures. However, they may also have negative economic impacts due to crop depredation, property damage, and flooded roads.
• Furbearers serve important ecological functions, including their roles as both predators and prey in functioning ecosystems, and as functional environmental indicators (e.g., for measuring contaminants and toxicants). In some cases, excessive numbers of furbearers may have a detrimental impact if they harm habitats, prey on endangered animals, or expose humans to diseases and parasites.