By Craig Wright, Las Vegas

Saturday, Aug. 8, 2020 | 2 a.m.

When people stop visiting and start developing in wildlife territory, it influences a predators domain. Nevadas bobcats, coyotes, cougars and bears are all predators. By building trophy homes up where the wildlife roam, their chances for survival diminish. We reduce their bedding areas, and cut off food and water sources while adding ourselves to the menu.

It starts out of curiosity. First table scraps, then the family pet or perhaps a family member. Everything is on the menu. Next come sightings too close to home. State predator control is called in. They set up trap lines to catch the intruder, but who is the real intruder?

We try catch and release first. If that doesnt work, the animal may have to be destroyed. Sportsmen are used to controlling their numbers. Tags are sold; the state profits and the residents are once more safe in their trophy homes. What was the bears crime? They became too familiar with the real apex predator, humans.

They call it trophy hunting. Out of respect for their quarry and the experience, hunters will display their animal. Native Americans taught us to honor the hunt and not waste a life. That trophy serves as a constant reminder that it is a privilege and an honor to join the hunt. It is also a constant reminder to everyone how fragile that relationship is.

Read more from the original source:

Bear hunting is now necessary - Las Vegas Sun