Trapping season has started in New Jersey.

Tuesday was the first day that traps could be set for coyotes, foxes, opossums, raccoons, skunks and weasels. The season runs until March 15.

The season's start comes as animal rights activists and state regulators continue to battle over a Christie administration policy that allows the use of enclosed foothold traps.

A state appellate court recently ruled that the traps aren't cruel and inhumane and can continue to be used. The judges rejected arguments by animal rights and environmental groups that claimed the Fish and Game Council overstepped its authority when it allowed the use of enclosed foothold traps last year.

Similar in concept to a mousetrap, enclosed foothold traps have a round bar that, when triggered, exerts pressure against the animal's foot.