Utah Attitudes Toward Black Bear And Cougar Management Practices

This article studies how demographic variables relate to attitudinal differences among Utah residents toward black bear and cougar management practices including recreational hunting, the use of hound dogs, and bear baits.

Article Abstract:

“We examined Utahns’ attitudes (n = 901) toward use of recreational hunting to manage black bears (Ursus americanus) and cougars (Puma concolor), use of hounds to hunt these species, and the practice of bear baiting. Independent variables included urban versus rural residence, gender, educational attainment, age, duration of in-state residence, and stakeholder group classification. Most Utahns disapproved of these practices. Differences in responses were associated with sociodemographic characteristics and with participation in wildlife-related recreation. The following groups were less opposed to the selected practices than their counterparts: rural residents, men, those with lower levels of education, longtime residents, younger respondents, and hunters. Survey analyses can help wildlife managers identify areas of controversy where public involvement and educational efforts might be prescribed.”