New Law Prohibits Sale of Bear Paws, Organs

With Vermont's bear hunting season starting September 1, the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department reminds hunters that the sale of bear paws and internal organs of bears is prohibited by a new law.

"Vermont State Game Wardens have investigated cases where people from out of state have approached Vermont hunters to purchase bear paws and gallbladders which are valuable in Asian countries," said Fish and Wildlife Commissioner Christopher Herrick. "Vermont was one of the few states that still allowed the sale of bear paws and gall bladders that are re-sold on the black market."

The meat of bear, deer or moose may be sold within Vermont during the open hunting season and for 20 days after the season ends. The meat may not be bought or sold to be transported out of the state.

A person may buy or sell the head, hide, hoofs, and antlers of legally taken deer or moose and the head and hide of legally taken black bears at any time.