I agree we should not decimate these predator populations to the point of extinction, as they play a role. But, consider the major loss of habitat, which equates to less available habitat for them to co-exist, and in the case of turkeys a lot of subpar habitat for brooding and nesting. My eyes tell me we have more coyotes, coons, and possums than I can ever remember. Bobcats and gray fox I can't say, but we are loaded with both right now. Trapping was previously much more prevalent than it's been over the last couple of decades or so. We need more removal than we have right now, in my opinion.
In Arkansas baiting is legal for deer, the majority of the year in CWD zones. Maybe it's year round in other counties, I'm not sure. But, a ton of corn, etc. being fed. I've seen pictures of 10-12 coons at one feeder, at the same time. I think a balanced approach with removal is best and can see where an unbalanced approach could be counterproductive. But, I think a continual and steady removal just keeps them in check, as they keep filling in, and at the rate of trapping/removal right now we won't decimate the populations. Not enough people doing it.
Last year was the first year I dedicated a full 60 consecutive days of trapping. A friend and I had access to some timber company leases for January and February. I was surprised at what we caught within basically two trap lines, in two generally small areas square mileage wise. A good balanced mix. We could have (and should have) removed more coons, so we will target those a little harder this winter.
I think each area is unique, so it's difficult for a biologist or anyone to say it's a waste of time. For turkeys some argue don't waste your time, focus on habitat. I agree it's #1 priority, probably by a long shot, but think it's a mistake to completely discredit predator removal. I've heard it said if it's less than perfect habitat you are wasting time, and if it's perfect habitat you don't need to remove predators. With that I disagree. In Arkansas, we have never had perfect habitat in a lot of places, but adequate enough to support thriving turkey populations in the past.
As far as coyotes, our populations have exploded over the last 20+ years. You will never decimate them, but they need thinned out. Coon hunting has made a little comeback, but not to the level it was in the 70s and 80s, and a lot of those now shoot a lower percentage of treed coons, just in talking to a few.
