Wyoming to Discuss Requiring Hunters to Carry Bear Spray

JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming wildlife officials plan to discuss possibly requiring hunters to carry bear spray in grizzly bear habitat.

Seven environmental groups have petitioned the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission to adopt such a requirement, saying it could result in hunters killing fewer grizzlies in self-defense.

The Jackson Hole News & Guide reports the commission plans to discuss the proposal Friday in Rock Springs.

The requirement wouldn't be unprecedented in Wyoming. Grand Teton National Park requires hunters to carry bear spray when they're pursuing elk in the park each fall.

Hunters defensively killed a record 15 grizzlies in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem in 2017.