The Association for the Protection of Fur-Bearing Animals, also known as the Fur-bearer Defenders or APFA, was formed in British Columbia in 1944 under the leadership of Ernest Winch.[1][2] The group's original aims were to assist in finding a "more humane" form of trapping wildlife,[3] though in later years they decided to focus on trying to end the fur-trade in Canada.[4]
Recent activities include helping communities investigate illegal/domestic trapping,[5] ending the import of dog and cat fur,[6] and assisting municipalities in coexisting with beavers.[7][8]
The Association for the Protection of Fur-Bearing Animals began hosting Living With Wildlife conferences for municipal partners in 2011. The 2012 event, held in Toronto, Ontario, was deemed a success by various attendants.[9][10] The 2013 Living With Wildlife conference took place in Vancouver, BC, on September 20. Audio, video and photos from the event are available online.[11]
In October, 2013, APFA launched Defender Radio,[12] a weekly podcast focusing on wildlife, the fur industry, animal advocacy and the science involved.