(Lewis) The furbearer season is one week in, for most species. John Lorenzen with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources says that even though the market for many furs is down, there was one major surprise from last year’s Canadian fur auction. Lorenzen says that most of the fur trapped is shipped to auctions in Canada. He says that the previous year’s auction raccoons and coyotes were often left unsold because they had no value. There were over 2,000 skunks on the market, and 100 percent of them sold, averaging around $80.00 each.
You would think the worth comes from the pelts; however, Lorenzen says the skunk’s essence, produced in its glands for that smell, has always been in demand. It is commonly sold as a lure for hunting, attracting animals such as foxes and deer. Hunters also use it externally to mask their scent while hunting. The skunk essence is also utilized in certain high-end perfumes for its unique scent. These applications highlight its versatility in both the hunting and fragrance industries.
The furbearer season runs from November 1 to February 28 for most species. The beaver season continues until April 15.
