US Department of the Interior authorizes food bait for bear hunting in Alaska

The United States Department of the Interior has authorized the use of food bait, such as bacon, donuts, and processed meats, to attract bears for hunting on federal lands in Alaska. The new regulation, published in the Federal Register, is set to take effect in mid-November and revokes a prohibition implemented during the Joe Biden administration in 2024.

Under the new rule, hunters are permitted to wait in nearby blinds to shoot the animals at close range once they are drawn to the bait. While the federal document does not specify exact food items, it refers to Alaska state regulations that allow these methods.

Animal protection organizations, including Animal Protection Law and Humane World for Animals, have criticized the decision. Advocates argue the practice is cruel and dangerous, warning that habituating bears to human food can increase animal aggression and create public safety risks near inhabited areas.

U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum defended the move as a response to the demands of Alaska residents, stating the change aims to strengthen the voice of local populations in managing their territory, wildlife, and regional traditions.