by Anne Landman • October 7, 2024 • 1 Comment
Propositions with three numbers (e.g., Proposition 127, Proposition 128, etc.) are measures amending state statutes.
Proposition 127 is a grassroots citizens initiative that would make it illegal to hunt, shoot at, or trap bobcats, lynx, and mountain lions in Colorado. The only exceptions are for the protection of human life, property and livestock. Violation would be a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by a fine and limiting of the violator’s wildlife hunting privileges.
The measure is supported by Cats Aren’t Trophies, and is endorsed by animal welfare societies, wildlife sanctuaries and rescues, Audubon Societies, Wild Earth Guardians and the Sierra Club, among others.
Arguments in favor of Proposition 127 are that big cats aren’t hunted or used for food, but rather as trophies, and that hunting and trapping them is cruel. Researchers say the measure would not contribute to an explosion in the number of these wild cats. In 1971, California enacted a moratorium on killing mountain lions with a measure that was signed by then-Governor Ronald Reagan. The state then enacted a permanent ban on killing mountain lions in 1990, and the population is estimated to have decreased during that time owing to road kill accidents, poisonings, poaching and habitat destruction due to climate change and development.
Arguments against the measure are that ballot measures like this, initiated by citizens, undermine scientifically-based management of wildlife.
Recommended vote on Proposition 127: YES
Mountain lion caught in a leg hold trap in Wyoming. (Photo: Instagram)
Exposing the Big Game 
