How bear hunters are contributing to wildlife management

Some black bear hunters have begun receiving a 2017 Ontario Black Bear Hunter Survey in the mail from the MNRF.  A total of 3000 surveys were sent to randomly-selected black bear licence holders.  This survey is in addition to the mandatory annual harvest survey, and was specifically developed to gather additional information about expenditures related to bear hunting in Ontario.  For example, questions cover harvest, hunting activity and location, hunting methods and equipment used, and spending (accommodations, bait, guiding, meals, transportation, butchering, taxidermy, etc.). The information will be used to assess how the Expanded Spring Bear Hunt Pilot Project has influenced economic activity in Ontario.

The OFAH fought the cancellation of the spring bear hunt for 15 years, including a court battle with the government, and continues to push for the pilot project to turn into a full return of the spring bear hunt. “The OFAH knows that spring and fall bear hunting is important in Ontario, but it is vitally important for hunters to respond to this survey to demonstrate this to the government,” says Mark Ryckman, OFAH Manager of Policy.

In addition to the socioeconomic survey, the MNRF is also encouraging bear hunters to submit premolar teeth from their harvested black bear.  By analyzing these tooth samples, the MNRF collects information about the age structure of local bear populations.  This helps with the sustainable management of our Ontario black bears.  In return, the MNRF will send you an Ontario Bear Hunter Crest and information about the age of your bear.  Read the Ontario Hunting Regulations Summary (p.76) for more information on how to submit bear teeth.