WV_Coalminer

West Virginias bear season runs from Dec. 6-31. Can anyone tell me why they would have bear season in the winter when they are hibernating ? How cold does it have to get before they hibernate ?

Steve

DougMD

Hey Steve,

I think bears hibernate when the food runs out, and that can be earlier than gun season, or most often later or during. A few years ago in WV, more bears were killed with bow than gun because they denned up before the gun season came in. My guess is it depends on whether there are acorns around, and snow cover that could make more energy expended getting food than calories in the food.

hillbillyhunter1

I'm not absolutely sure, but I also believe that sows with cubs typically den up first and then boars last--so maybe that has something to do with the thinking of the late season
hb

Also wanted to say hello to you as a former resident of WV--hardy co. and welcome
hb