Nevada's Wildlife in the Crosshairs — End the Carnage Now
2,786 signatures toward our 30,000 Goal
Sponsor: The Animal Rescue Site
Join us in a crucial stand against Nevada's sanctioned wildlife killing contests, where the survival of our cherished wildlife hangs in the balance.
In the heart of Nevada, a silent crisis unfolds in our wilderness. Wildlife killing contests, where participants vie for prizes by killing the most, largest, or smallest animals, cast a dark shadow over our state's rich natural heritage. These contests target coyotes, foxes, bobcats, and more, turning wildlife management into a game with devastating consequences1.
The Impact is Real
These contests don't just harm individual animals; they disrupt entire ecosystems. By removing key species from the landscape, we risk unbalancing predator-prey dynamics, which can lead to unforeseen ecological repercussions. The science is clear: ethical, science-based management practices are crucial for healthy ecosystems, and wildlife killing contests stand in stark opposition to these principles2.
A Call for Ethical Treatment
Nevada prides itself on its outdoor traditions and respect for nature. Yet, these contests betray those values, promoting a disregard for life and a misunderstanding of true conservation efforts. It's not just about the animals; it's about respecting the balance of nature and ensuring that our hunting practices are ethical and sustainable.
The Time for Change is Now
Polls show that a majority of Nevadans oppose these contests3. The Nevada Board of Wildlife Commissioners and the Nevada State Legislature have faced calls to ban these practices, yet they remain sanctioned. It's time for us to amplify our voices and demand change.
Act Now for Nevada's Wildlife
Your voice can make a difference. By signing our petition, you join a community of Nevadans ready to stand up for wildlife, ethical hunting, and the preservation of our natural landscapes. Together, we can urge our leaders to enact legislation that bans wildlife killing contests in Nevada, ensuring a more humane and balanced approach to wildlife management.
Don't let another contest pass by in silence. Sign the petition today and be a part of the movement to protect Nevada's wildlife and ensure a brighter, more ethical future for our state's natural heritage.
- Austin Tannenbaum, The Nevada Independent (2 May 2023), "Are coyote killing contests held in Nevada?"
- Emma Misiaszek, CNY Central (22 December 2023), "New York state puts an end to certain wildlife killing contests through new legislation."
- Project Coyote (24 February 2023), "Public Survey Results."
The Petition:
To the Governor of Nevada, Members of the Nevada State Legislature, and Members of the Nevada Board of Wildlife Commissioners,
We, the undersigned, call upon the leaders of Nevada to take immediate action to end the sanctioning of wildlife killing contests within the state.
Wildlife killing contests in Nevada target various species, including coyotes, foxes, bobcats, and others, rewarding participants for killing the most, the largest, or the smallest animals, among other categories. These contests not only inflict unnecessary suffering on wildlife but also disrupt the delicate balance of our ecosystems. The indiscriminate nature of these contests can lead to unintended ecological consequences, such as altering predator-prey dynamics and impacting the overall health of ecosystems.
Moreover, these contests run counter to ethical wildlife management and conservation efforts, which aim to sustain populations and habitats for future generations. They undermine the principles of fair chase and respect for life that are fundamental to responsible hunting traditions.
In light of the significant opposition among Nevadans to these contests, as evidenced by a poll showing that 66% oppose wildlife killing contests, it is clear that there is strong public support for ending these practices.
By banning wildlife killing contests, Nevada can lead the way in promoting more humane and science-based approaches to wildlife management. Such actions will not only reflect the ethical values of our community but also contribute to healthier, more resilient ecosystems.
We urge you to take decisive action to prohibit these contests, ensuring a brighter and more sustainable future for Nevada's wildlife and all who call this state home.
Sincerely,
