One of the greatest pleasures of hunting and trapping, according to many Alaskans, is time spent outdoors. Hunters and trappers spend many hours observing animals, discovering tracks, and following game trails. As a result, many gain a highly specialized understanding of wild game, furbearers, and the land.
        Out of respect for the landscape and the animals they pursue, hunters and trappers follow an unspoken code of behavior and ethics. Responsible and ethical hunting and trapping is based on the idea of taking only what is needed, sharing, and properly caring for all parts of the animal. Some cultures also place tremendous value on attending to the animal’s spirit.
        Hunters and trappers have a personal stake in the future of the lands they use. Many have been instrumental in resource conservation and habitat sustainability movements around the world. In the United States , hunters and trappers support resource management programs through the purchase of licenses and tags, and also provide grant money for projects on a wide range of topics. Public policies informed by hunters and trappers help ensure the future of wildlife and wild habitats.