Re: [Maine-birds] OT (somewhat): the bear referendum

I have a question about baiting, for those who hunt.  Are there restrictions on where the bait can be placed, to avoid encouraging bears to come closer to human habitation than they otherwise might?

On Fri, Oct 3, 2014 at 2:45 AM, William Nichols <wnbirder@gmail.com> wrote:

This is indeed off-topic for the group, but you asked and I will reply: The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife is tasked with managing the state's game and non-game wildlife resources. I am a conservation-minded hunter and birder, and I have a huge amount of respect for the knowledge, experience and field work of the Department's biologists. I am not a biologist. I do, however, choose to place my confidence and November vote on the work of these individuals. If they tell me that a species management practice is necessary to maintain a population of healthy animals while limiting conflict with humans, I tend to believe them. 

As far as the ethics behind bear hunting, this could be debated to no end without a consensus being achieved. I personally think that in most cases, a hunt is "fair chase" when the animal is wild and unrestricted in its ability to try to evade the chosen legal hunting method being utilized (think game farms; not "fair chase"). I have shot deer and turkey. Never bear, but I will likely be setting up a bait within the next few years if that hunting method is not voted out. I do not hunt for the kill; pulling the trigger is a small part of the larger picture. I would much rather use a shotgun or rifle to obtain meat than a debit card. 

In closing, vote however you see fit. Just please be well-educated on the issue and make your decision based on science and research.

With respect,

William Nichols

Stockton Springs

On Thu, Oct 2, 2014 at 10:30 PM, Bruce Bartrug <bbartrug@gmail.com> wrote:

Since there are a number of naturalists that work for various environmental or state organizations that frequent this forum, I hope it's not impertinent of me to ask opinions on the bear-baiting referendum we'll be voting on in November.  My gut feeling is to leave this to the wildlife people, who (hopefully at least) know their area of expertise.  Sure, baiting is "unfair,"  but so is putting a worm on a hook.  Any input would be appreciated, and thanks in advance.

BAB

--
Bruce Bartrug
Nobleboro, Maine, USA
bbartrug@gmail.com
www.brucebartrug.com

The world is a dangerous place, not because of those who do evil, but because of those who look on and do nothing.  - Albert Einstein

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