Some conflicts with dangerous wildlife species are inevitable as humans continue to expand into habitat traditionally occupied by black bear and cougar. When those conflicts occur, people often call WDFW offices for assistance.
The WDFW Enforcement Program is responsible for responding and assisting the public regarding solutions to complaints about dangerous wildlife. WDFW policy directs agency employees to respond within specific timeframes and with certain responses depending on the urgency of the incident.
These responses are summarized below.
Situation 1: Cougar or black bear depredation on livestock resulting in the loss of animal
Response: WDFW enforcement officer response within 24 hours, with the authority to:
- Euthanize the offending animal, or
- Immobilize, mark, and relocate offending animal one time only.
Situation 2: Cougar or black bear exhibit behavior that constitutes an 'urgent human safety concern'
Response: Immediate response by WDFW enforcement officer with the authority to:
- Euthanize the offending animal, or
- Immobilize, mark, and relocate the offending animal one time only.
Situation 3: Cougar or black bear attack on a human
Response: Immediate response by WDFW enforcement officer.
- Euthanize offending animal.
- Submit tissue samples to State Health Department for rabies test.
Although attacks on humans are rare, WDFW is prepared to respond based on established protocols.