Hunting in Bear Country

Hunting clubs with property in occupied bear habitat should incorporate bear awareness programs into their annual list of organizational activities so that members can learn facts and dispel myths (e.g., the mistaken belief that bears and deer cannot live in the same area). Identification, behavior, and management of black bears should be discussed in formal hunter education programs. Clubs should also police their wildlife resources and report any wildlife violation that is discovered. Wildlife professionals should promote bear conservation when working with the media, hunters, and other outdoor enthusiasts.

Hunters should gut and remove game carcasses from the kill site as quickly as possible, never leaving the gut pile on or near a trail. Do not drag the carcass back to the campsite, as this just creates a clear scent trail for bears to follow. Hang the carcass at least 10 feet above the ground and 4 feet from the attachment point, also making sure to remove any bloody clothes or items and hang them at a safe distance along with all other attractants. Bears may still appear and investigate the carcass; so upon returning, the hunter should approach upwind and make noise while always scanning the area. If a bear has obtained the carcass, a hunter should not attempt to approach or reclaim the kill as this may antagonize the bear and provoke a dangerous situation.

Killing a bear in Louisiana carries federal and state penalties that can include heavy fines and even jail time. Know your target!

Bears in the Neighborhood bearsneighborhood

Feeding Bears bearsfeeding

Aversion Conditioning bearsconditioning

Bears at your Beehives bearsbeehive

If you Encounter a Bear bearsencounter

Conflict Management bearsconflict

Bears & Garbage bearstrash

Crops and Livestock Pens bearscrops

Bears at your Campsite bearscampsite

Know your target!

The BBCC reminds hunters that both bear and feral hog populations have increased. Target identification is a critical factor in hunter safety and a basic component of legal game harvest.

Killing a bear is a violation of both state law and the federal Endangered Species Act. Violators are subject to penalties of up to $50,000 and 6 months in jail. In addition, a civil restitution fine of $10,000 per bear will be imposed on anyone convicted of killing a black bear in Louisiana.

Cash rewards up to $5,000 are offered for information leading to the arrest of any individuals harming a black bear, and callers will remain anonymous.

Call Operation Game Thief at 1-800-442-2511.