I brought a chicken inside to rest and heal that I could have easily culled from my flock , and I briefly thought about how anti-trappers view our heritage. Trappers were once seen as essential members of early communities, providers of food, fur, and knowledge of the land. Yet now, mention the word “trapper” and many people immediately picture cruelty, or neglect.
What people often forget is that trapping, for many, is neither sport nor spectacle. It’s management of wildlife populations, an understanding of ecosystems, and a way of life handed down through generations. Most trappers I’ve met or read about, care deeply about the land and the animals on it. They know the trails, the habits, the seasons. But the moment the word “trap” enters the conversation, defenses go up. It’s as if the simple act of harvesting an animal—no matter how regulated, humane, or necessary automatically paints someone as a villain.

I suppose the bad reputation comes from a mix of misunderstanding, outdated images, and the emotional response many people have when they imagine an animal in a trap. And yes, there have been irresponsible trappers, people who misuse the craft or ignore ethics—just as there are irresponsible people in any field. But they are not the whole story, and they shouldn’t define everyone who practices trapping respectfully. I'm proud to tell others I trap and I hope that legacy continues through my children.

I had a one legged chicken for years I called her Ilean she was more like a cat she even took care of a litter of kittens when the mother was not around in the winter.

… I’d have culled it and turned it into some wildcats lol

I’m proud of you. Whatever let’s you have a clean conscience and feel good. It wouldn’t have been wrong to cull it but that’s not always easy and not always necessary .
Compassion and care can easily be misconstrued and you may get a brow beating from some, but that doesn’t matter.

I think your dog is wondering if it will be fried or baked!

Amen, girl!






Jeremy Frances.... heck ya lol!

Never even given being cold hearted a thought when it comes to being a trapper. That natural world ain’t nothing like Disney makes it out to be. lol.

It's the "other side " in my opinion. When I was pregnant, anti's would wish harm upon my daughter. It's insane.

Kristen it’s great to see you back on here. I remember how much you went through, even with your vision.
Thank you for your posts.
Jim

You are 1 in a Trillion...Wonderful post

Jim, thank you for remembering. I still deal with vision issues but at least I'm Earth- side!!

You always are so positive, I appreciate you!

Reel it back in Scott, she's married, lol.

Glad to see you back . Great looking chicken as far as trappers I’m a go to guy in my area of rural Illinois when a critter problem arises and I’m always glad to help out

I thought id warned about coming across too desperate lol

Hate to say it! But, that hen would be in a gumbo pot!! I don’t see that breed of dogs down here! He looks like a good dog!!

Mental illness is rampant these days. Hate to hear that threats like that were made towards you. SMDH….

Good to see you back Kristen, glad to see you are doing better.

My girls, Kali (bernese mountain dog) and Sophee (Australian shepherd)