As outdoorsmen and women in Mississippi continue to hit the woods to hunt wild game, officials are urging hunters to be informed before taking the life of an animal.
Specifically, the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks is looking to highlight key differences between a black bear and a wild hog. In the Magnolia State, killing a black bear is illegal due to it being a protected endangered species. However, wild hogs are considered a nuisance species and hunters are given near-carte blanche to kill them year-round.
Per state law, wild hogs can legally be killed by landowners or leaseholders at any time of day or night with no weapon restriction on private lands. However, there is a growing concern that a black bear could be mistaken as a wild hog from afar.
“At a distance, particularly in the early morning and late evening hours, a bear can often resemble a wild hog,” a statement from the MDWFP reads. “Yearling and subadult bears are somewhat ‘lanky’ in appearance with longer ears than a stockier adult bear. While we encourage hunters to take wild hogs at every legal opportunity, if in doubt, don’t shoot.”
Killing a black bear in the state yields fines of up to $5,000 and possibly a year in jail. The only time it is permissible to take the life of an endangered species in Mississippi is in the event of a self-defense situation.
“As in any hunting activity, whether pursuing white-tailed deer or seeking out small game, always KNOW YOUR TARGET before taking that shot,” the statement from MDWFP further added.
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