Evaluation of the Potential Effects of Sport Hunting on California Black Bears

January 1, 1994

Evaluation of the Potential Effects of Sport Hunting on California Black Bears

Requirements to comply with environmental laws require annual evaluation of the impacts of hunting on black bear (Ursus americanus) and the environment in California. Historical management was custodial and earlier investigations indicated that illegal kill was a major mortality factor. Since 1982, mandatory tag returns and presentation of skulls for aging have increased the amount and quality of data. The level of illegally killed bears has declined since dog training was prohibited in bear habitat during spring and summer. Hunting and harvest quotas have been established. Current harvest levels are thought to be about 8% of the population. Data indicate that hunting mortality has little negative effect on the population and hunting mortality is thought to be compensatory.

Author(s) Timothy Burton and Donald Koch and Douglas Updike and Alan Brody
Volume 9
Issue
Pages 231-235
Publication Date 1 January 1994
DOI 10.2307/3872706
File Size 215.43 KB
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