Hunting Laws Question

[CyberSnow]

I live in the Cascade/McCall area and have a few acres on an all year creek up against the Payette Forest. Lately there has been a great deal of timbering on the edges of the forest around my place. I am being visited almost daily by bears and other predators. In addition it is not uncommon to see a wolf or mountain lion in my “yard”. It has resulted in my dogs being leashed when outside as they would make an easy dinner for one of those predators. Anyone familiar with the laws concerning shooting predators endangering property? (I am not considering hunting the deer or elk that love eating my wife’s flowers or garden).

 

[cub1ce_]

I live in the Cascade/McCall area and have a few acres on an all year creek up against the Payette Forest. Lately there has been a great deal of timbering on the edges of the forest around my place. I am being visited almost daily by bears and other predators. In addition it is not uncommon to see a wolf or mountain lion in my “yard”. It has resulted in my dogs being leashed when outside as they would make an easy dinner for one of those predators. Anyone familiar with the laws concerning shooting predators endangering property? (I am not considering hunting the deer or elk that love eating my wife’s flowers or garden).

Game cameras can be helpful here, not just for your own peace of mind but also if you need to clarify any behavioral patterns. I’d also reach out to my local Fish & Game office if I were you to talk with a conservation officer. Having that prior contact can really help if things ever get tense.

 

[CyberSnow]

Right now I am out of state, but there is a Fish and Game office in McCall, I will drop by and thanks for the reminder !

 

[Alan]

Idaho does permit you to defend yourself, other people and your pets when there’s an immediate threat, but the crucial term here is "immediate." The state is quite particular about distinguishing between legit defense of life or property and actions that might be seen as opportunistic or preemptive. Every situation is examined on a case by case basis and it’s always the homeowner’s job to prove that the animal posed a genuine, unavoidable threat at that moment.

 

[CyberSnow]

Excellent point and consistent with Idaho Fish and Game. While we have not had any problems yet, I do carry a firearm when walking the dogs before dawn or after dark. However I am thinking that my ,357 and .45 are a bit overkill. Do they make a revolver that uses a shot shell I think something like that might be more appropriate.