In what circumstance can conibear traps be utilized?

Conibear traps are designed primarily for trapping aquatic and semi-aquatic mammals, such as beavers and muskrats. One key aspect of their legal use is that they must align with designated hunting seasons for the species they target. Since conibear traps are often used for specific wildlife management and population control, the legality of their use is closely tied to the broader framework of hunting regulations established by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Using conibear traps outside of the established hunting seasons could lead to unintended consequences, such as trapping protected species or violating state regulations. Hence, the utilization of conibear traps is permitted only during official hunting seasons, ensuring compliance with wildlife conservation standards and increased safety for non-target species.

The other options suggest scenarios that do not align with regulations surrounding the use of conibear traps. For instance, limiting use to urban areas, wetlands, or requiring traps to be fully submerged may not encapsulate the scope of their usage based on wildlife management practices.