The MeatEater Podcast Ep. 732: Predator Management, California Style
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Jul 14, 2025 Devin O'Dea, Western Policy and Conservation Manager at Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, sheds light on California's complex bear hunting regulations and rising black bear populations. He discusses the impacts of reduced hunting on bear mortality and the unique legal powers of the Humane Society in wildlife management. The conversation also highlights the balance between conservation efforts and growing bear-human conflicts. O'Dea emphasizes the role of informed hunting practices in promoting biodiversity and managing wildlife effectively.
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Blood Removal Tips for Gear
- Use 3% hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle to remove blood stains from fabric effectively.
- Avoid strong bleach peroxide on packs as it can degrade stitching; use cold water soaks instead.
Bears Steal Mountain Lions' Kills
- Mountain lions kill six times more deer because black bears steal their kills, showing the impact of kleptoparasitism.
- Black bears are so numerous in some regions they push mountain lions off kills, forcing repeated kills by lions.
New Bear Conflict Management Steps
- Department now requires documented efforts to haze bears before issuing depredation tags.
- This policy reduces bear euthanasia but coincides with increasing human-bear conflicts.