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As of Nov 2022, 16 bears were shot by hunters in the NV Bear Hunt. So what makes sports hunting still a relevant sport? What if we were to hunt for our humanity instead? Or deepen our connection to the nature? Work to peacefully co-exist with 'indicator species' of a healthy forest. Yes, killing bears compromises our survival too. Native Tahoe Black Bears have lived in the Sierra Nevada mountain range and Tahoe watershed for millions of years. The indigenous Washoe people did not hunt these Bears, nor build homes in areas where they had dens, so Tahoe bears were not afraid of people - but this has changed with development and population growth. Modern culture has moved into Tahoe's wildlife native habitat; marsh, meadows, forest and up against creeks (wildlife navigational corridors). Many of our 16M+ annual visitors are surprised to see a bear; move thru their yard, cross the highway, fish in a creek or swim in the Lake. Even some new residents are not aware Tahoe is home to numerous species, who now require protection as human development redefines their habitat. Human actions have put Tahoe wildlife, especially Bears, under constant threat of being killed, wounded, sick (from eating human garbage) or permanently traumatized. Please STOP THE BEAR HUNT But with a small effort of mindfulness...YOU can help! 1. Drive slow, as wildlife spontaneously cross streets and highway without warning 2. Never leave food or trash unattended so bears will forage their native food that is in abundance in the basin 3. Show respect: If you see a bear move away and give them the right-of-way and space 4. Recognize we have a People Problem not a Bear problem 5. Do not hunt, trap, harass or feed bears anywhere in the watershed of Sierra range 6. If you see bears fishing in the creek or foraging in the forest or meadow... back away, give them space, (do not move in for a photo). As more wildlife habitat is consumed with development and recreation, wildlife have to work harder to survive. The best way to show you care to protect them is with mindful respect and consideration. |
Photo by Mark Smith of Incline Village
Tahoe Bears being killed cropssing the highway increases By Sept 2023, 70 Tahoe bears have been killed crossing the highway. There are less than 5 Bear Crossing signs over the 72 miles that circle the lake. Many travelers are not even aware bears even live here, and wildlife is most active at dusk when it is hardest to see them, although they can cross anytime. New solar powered technology with flashing signals, alert drivers when any wildlife, or domestic life is about the cross a highway. Eurekalert is one of many new companies perfecting wildlife alert highway signs that reduce wildlife and human trauma and fatalities. We are seeking support to install 30 of these life-saving signs at critical wildlife crossings throughout the Tahoe watershed. Let us know if you would like to help in this effort: 1. research assessment on locations 2. Political support 3. Fund raising Contact: David Colley at: smartbearbox@gmail.com 775 287-2192 Wildlife alert signs work! |
