Management by Emotion

by
posted on May 25, 2012
lessons_ah2015_fs.jpg (11)

I see that my birth state—California—has not relinquished its stranglehold on the notion that the only proper way to manage its wildlife is through emotion. California has become the laughingstock of the nation for its polices, ranging from cultural to fiscal to wildlife management, and continues down that road with absolutely no remorse.

Last week the California state senate approved a bill sponsored by The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) that bans the use of hounds or any other dogs for the purpose of hunting bears and bobcats. It was introduced by Ted Lieu (D) who represents the town in which I grew up, Torrance. I can vouch from years of first-hand experience that there are no bears in Torrance, and there probably hasn’t been a bobcat in Torrance for a century or so since the onetime swamp was drained to make way for that city.

So one of the first questions I have is: Why would he introduce such a bill? According to Lieu, dispatching dogs to chase a bear into a tree where the hunter can get a clear shot of the animal “violates the principals of fair chase.”

“It’s been likened to shooting a bear in the zoo,” he said, according to the Sacramento Bee.

Lieu had his talking points handed to him by the HSUS, which, by the way, is now involved with training California game wardens.

Meanwhile, yesterday a juvenile male mountain lion was shot and killed by law enforcement officers in downtown Santa Monica as it took a morning stroll near the beach. It never had a chance—sort of like shooting a bear in the zoo. Mountain lions enjoy a “specially protected mammal” status in the Golden State—except for when it’s inconvenient.

Latest

Winchester Folds Of Honor
Winchester Folds Of Honor

Winchester Ammunition Commits $100,000 Pledge to Folds of Honor

Winchester Ammunition has announced its fourth consecutive pledge to the Folds of Honor Foundation, a $100,000 commitment that will help provide educational scholarships to the spouses and children of fallen or disabled service members of the U.S. armed forces.

10 Timely Hunting Survival Safety Tips

Here are 10 lifesaving precautions and preparations to follow—regardless of location—to survive unexpected situations when afield.

First Look: Nosler Limited Edition Model 21 Carbon Rifle

With only 100 units in available, the Limited Edition Model 21 Carbon is designed for the discerning hunter or shooter who values craftsmanship, innovation and rarity in a rifle built to exceed expectations in the field.

#SundayGunday: Leupold Mark 4HD

On this week’s #SundayGunday, we’re taking a look at the Leupold Mark 4HD, a precision riflescope that hits the sweet spot for hunters across the nation.

Studies Show Negative Effect of Talking While Hunting

Wildlife biologists have determined that hunters talking afield will send most animals in flight faster than gunshots or dogs.

How to Hunt Safely Into Old Age

Hunters armed with the wisdom of age plan for eventualities like ailments, first-aid emergencies and remote communication. Everyone else should heed sage advice if they want to become an old hunter.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.