Most game laws are administered by states, a model that has worked well over the years.
Take the black bear population, for example. Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia all have differing seasons and regulations, yet each state manages its bruin population based on the science of the species within its boundaries, even though less than 60 miles separates all four states.
The same model should be in effect for wolves, yet animal-rights groups keep manipulating the Federal government to intervene. Here’s the latest from Bernie Barringer on the subject in this Predator Xtreme post.
Wolves incite passion. They are an apex predator and held in high esteem by some; almost idolized. These people couldn’t think of anything more distasteful, even enraging, as killing wolves. On the polar opposite end of the spectrum is an equally misguided group of people who would just as soon see them all dead. Caught in the middle are the people who actually live with wolves. Hunters, trappers, livestock owners and pet owners all see the problems associated with a high wolf population. Deer numbers have plummeted in many parts of the state due in part to wolf depredation. Deer hunters and recreational deer views are alarmed. Minnesota put an end to the moose hunting season this year due to low moose numbers, and a survey of moose calf mortality showed wolves to be a significant factor. OAS_AD(“Middle”); Pets are increasingly being preyed upon by wolves. Dogs that venture a little too far from the porch are torn to shreds and hunting dogs just out of reach of the hunter are killed every year. Wolves do not tolerate other canines in their territory. Livestock owners are hit the hardest… MORE
