Lynx Deaths Prompt New Trapping Regulations

Maine wildlife officials have ordered new emergency trapping regulations after two Canadian lynx were killed in traps in recent weeks.

Lynx are considered a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act.

The Department of Inland Fisheries says lethal traps that are used to catch other animals, such as fisher and marten, will not be permitted above ground or snow level in areas of the state where lynx are common.

Lethal traps smaller than 7 1/2 inches would still be allowed above ground in other wildlife management districts if they include a device that would prevent lynx from becoming ensnared.

Wildlife officials says the two recent lynx trapping deaths were the first in six years in Maine, though 26 of the animals have been killed by vehicles since 2009.