A proposed rule change by the Arizona Game and Fish Commission would end hunting contests that often target such apex predators as coyotes, bobcats and foxes. (GabrielAssan/AdobeStock)

May 1, 2019

CAREFREE, Ariz. – The Arizona Game and Fish Commission is considering a ban on wildlife-killing contests.

More than 20 of these events, also known as “targeted hunts,” currently are held each year in Arizona. The targeted species usually include coyotes, bobcats and foxes but sometimes focus on mountain lions, coatimundis, badgers and jackrabbits.

Sandy Bahr, who heads the Sierra Club’s Grand Canyon Chapter, said the contests often go after predator animals but serve no conservation function.

“These wildlife-killing contests do not serve wildlife management,” she said. “They focus on killing the most animals or the biggest. They really are more about killing a lot of animals. It’s not hunting.”

Typically, Bahr said, the participants join for a fee and…