Lynx, Marten Pelts Fetch Big Prices For Trappers

Tuesday, February 26, 2008 at 15:00

 

 

Some recent prices for marten, lynx and lynx cat pelts are being hailed as the highest in 20 years by a North Bay, Ontario fur marketer.

 

At a recent Fur Harvesters Auction House sale in Seattle, marten pelts sold for a top price of $190, with an average price of $100 for the western variety.

 

Spokesman Dave Bazma says part of the reason why they did so well is manufacturers are now using the material for garments, not just trim.

 

Meantime, Bazma says the western lynx checked in at an average price of $370 per pelt.

 

The top price paid was $825.

 

He says the staple of the fur industry, the beaver pelt, also had a strong showing with an average price of $24.77.

 

Bazma says while otter and muskrat pelts had disappointing returns, the other varieties fetched good prices due to limited supplies.

 

He says bad weather throughout the season has reduced the opportunities for many trappers to get out.