By: Marlene Affeld
Since the beginning of time, fur bearing animals have been an important part of human culture and man’s survival. Fur bearing animals have long been utilized as a sustainable source of clothing, shelter, food, medicine and goods for trade.
Animal trapping was one of the very first means of hunting in what is now Montana. Native Americans hunted or trapped fur bearing animals for meat and the warm, insulating qualities of their pelage as protection from the bitter cold winters. Certain fur bearing animals like the wolf, wolverine, cougar and grizzly bear were considered spiritually powerful and the pelts of these animals played a significant role as ceremonial robes and adornment. Many tribes believed that the animal’s pelt provided a warrior with a mantle of courage and strength.
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