times and seasons but only through necessity; strangers and
so-called sportsmen are generally the offenders. I have been
a trapper myself for years, a professional, but had been
taught never to kill wantonly.... Of course, much study and
care must be exercised in preserving species of birds and
animals from destruction, or else, as you say, mistakes may
be made. There are species of such that are destructive to
others when allowed to increase beyond certain limits, and
it takes a very short time to do that in some cases....
About three years ago, ruffed grouse were so scarce
everywhere that I have travelled hundreds of miles without
seeing one. They were protected by law, which no doubt did
much near the densely populated sections, but as far as our
coast was concerned did absolutely nothing because Indians
and trappers shot them on sight for food. Last year there
were a few seen here and there and all at once, during the
present season, there are thousands. Hundreds have been shot
and they are reported abundant all over. I imagine this must
be due to particularly favourable weather conditions and the
immense number of foxes trapped last winter. There is also
this fall, an extraordinary number of muskrats--they are
swarming everywhere, even in totally, unfavourable
localities, doing much damage in some places. What is the
cause of this? Presumably it must be through some cause
decreasing the number of their enemies. This is why I think
much care must be taken before any steps are taken to
protect certain species. Some still hold their own against
all odds.

His Royal Highness the Duke of Connaught, Governor General of Canada,