Hide auction set for CdA this year

For the first time in seven years, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game’s annual hide and fur auction is set to take place in Coeur d’Alene.

The department sells hides, furs, antlers and horns confiscated from poachers or taken from roadkill. The auction, held in different locations across the state, raises money for Fish and Game’s general fund.

More than 100 items are to be sold at the May 1 auction, which will take place at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds, 4056 N. Government Way. Viewing begins at 10 a.m.; bidding starts at noon.

This year, several wolf hides and skulls will be auctioned, said Phil Cooper, a wildlife education coordinator. Some of the hides come from animals killed because they preyed on livestock.

Most of the skins are “green hides,” which still need tanning, Cooper said. Confiscated camping gear, fishing rods and firearms also will be sold at the auction.

Anyone in the business of buying and selling hides or animal mounts must have a taxidermist-fur buyer license to participate in the bidding. Resident licenses are $40 for one year, and nonresident licenses are $170. The licenses, which must be purchased in advance, are available at the Idaho Fish and Game office, 2885 W. Kathleen Ave.

Licenses are not required for individuals buying items for their own use.