Trapping and furbearer hunting season has begun in Iowa this week and lasts until January 31, 2018, for most species.

According to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources only one bobcat is allowed per season per licensed furharvester and only two otters are allowed per licensed furharvester. Populations are steady across the board for the furbearer and trapping season, with beaver population trending up slightly and the bobcat population expanding and increasing in eastern Iowa. The bobcat harvest quota in the 2016-2017 season was 591. Taking animals by shotgun or spear is prohibited. A furharvester license and habitat fee is required to hunt or trap furbearers. Coyote or groundhog may be hunted on a hunting or furharvester license. Iowa DNR reminds people to abide by the 200 yard separation distance from occupied dwellings and driveways regulation, and to check all traps every 24 hours, except for those placed entirely underwater. Furharvesters are required to contact a conservation officer within seven days of taking an otter or bobcat to receive a CITES tag which must remain with the animal until it is sold.