Alaska aerial bear killings resume under Mulchatna predator control program
Key Questions
What is the Mulchatna predator control program in Alaska?
It authorizes aerial killings of bears, with nearly 200 killed since 2023 including cubs, to manage populations near Katmai and McNeil River areas. The program resumed despite ongoing legal challenges from conservation groups.
Why are conservation groups opposing the aerial bear killings?
Groups argue the killings harm bear populations and ecosystems in wilderness areas, continuing litigation to halt the program. Impacts extend beyond targeted zones into protected habitats.
What is the current status of the Alaska bear control efforts?
Aerial operations resumed under state authority amid federal flexibility discussions. Legal fights persist, highlighting tensions between predator management and conservation priorities.
Nearly 200 bears killed since 2023, including cubs, under the Mulchatna predator control program. Conservation groups continue legal fight. Impacts bear populations in Katmai and McNeil River areas. New: Aerial killings resumed despite ongoing litigation.