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TUESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2003

"From a long cultural history with animals such as the bear, the current proposal by Rep. Jim Moran, D-Va., and the Humane Society to ban bear baiting on federal lands, seemed appropriate. No, the ban seemed true and right. After all, bears deserve a sportsman's chance just like the hunter.

After talking with relatives and outdoorsmen, I have changed my mind. Bear baiting is appropriate. Yes, this Native woman - who has learned the tales of the bears from her grandmother, watches the Animal, Discovery and National Geographic channels regularly and is a big fan of the animal psychic - reluctantly stands on the side of man and not beast.

Here is why: Without the added protection of a tree stand (with the bait below), a hunter stands little chance against the strength of a bear, his 35 mph running speed or his claws and teeth. The sport can be the bear's."

Get the Story:
DORREEN YELLOW BIRD COLUMN: Bear baiting not unfair to animal (The Grand Forks Herald 1/21)

More Yellow Bird:
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Yellow Bird: Deer encounters, Part 2 (1/13)
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Yellow Bird: Happy Birthday, Mom (12/17)
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