Volunteers Wanted for Bison Manhunt Grand Canyon: 45,000 Applications | Abroad

The number of bison has increased dramatically in recent years, especially on the north side of the canyon. Between 300 and 500 animals were counted, the National Park Service (NPS) wants that number to drop below 200. In the past, 90 bison have been caught and moved, but the remaining animals continue to cause a lot of damage to the waterways. the vegetation and archaeological valuable sites. Therefore, a registration was opened to select 12 trained shooters who can each kill one bison. Hunting in the park is normally prohibited. The shooters are not allowed to take the carcasses home.

Lottery

All Americans over the age of 18, without a criminal record, could enroll for 48 hours. The candidates must have their own weapon and be able to demonstrate that they can use it. The search can take several days and the weather conditions can be extreme, with possible snow on the rough terrain. On 17 May, the candidates will know who can get started.

The national park had expected the great interest. Of the 45,000 candidates, 25 people will ultimately be drawn. After a test, 12 people remain, who will go into nature in September under the guidance of professionals.

There were once between 30 and 60 million bison in the vast plains of North America. After the arrival of the Europeans, the bison almost became extinct, at the end of the 19th century there were only 400 left. Now there are about 30,000 living in the United States.

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