Bill 215: The Wildlife Amendment Act

This bill primarily affects hunters, trappers, outfitters, and guide services operating in Manitoba who work with or around protected wildlife species. Trappers who previously relied on poison-based methods to control or capture animals will no longer be able to obtain permits exempting them from the prohibition on poison use, requiring them to switch to other methods. Farmers and ranchers who manage land in Manitoba and have historically dealt with wildlife conflicts will face expanded restrictions on which animals they can kill in defence of their property — now covering all protected species, not just antelope and cougar. The escalating fines ($10,000–$100,000 for a first offence) and potential licence cancellations or permanent bans make compliance especially critical for anyone whose livelihood depends on holding a valid hunting or trapping licence.