TASER: An Effective Deterrent against Bears and Moose?

Nowadays, innocent people are not only subject to attack from aggressive individuals who lurk the streets waiting for a victim, but they can also become a victim from wildlife.

A recent study undertaken in Alaska by the state Department of Fish and Game has found that the utilization of TASER weapons is an effective device to operate when it comes to the management of wildlife.

A device that is often seen on the hip of countless individuals, whether your local police officer, or a neighborhood friend out for a jog, or concealed inside a bag, it’s a device that has gained rapid popularity over the years as an effective instrument when it comes to your self defense.

Now however, TASER devices could be seen managing wildlife. And yet such a move as this will quickly raise questions when it comes to how it will affect a bear or moose who may only be trying to protect their young, or feel otherwise threatened.

The study found that the utilization of a TASER weapon was effective at disabling moose and bears. But while it’s effective, what damage does the animal suffer?

After either a bear or moose has experienced the jolt they will be disabled for about 30 seconds, which is also the time a human would be immobilized as well. Not only that, but the animals could exhibit signs of distress, however these will quickly fade. Furthermore, a bear or a moose will recover at a quicker pace, then if they were drugged.
However, that’s not to say people won’t still object to a TASER device being utilized on an animal. When the device was first invented, its main purpose of operation was to be used on people, not animals, as it was designed for the weight and build of a human.

Of course, there will be times when a person is confronted with a hostile animal with no form of protection at their assistance. In these instances a TASER weapon would be an ideal tool to have. The study, which is the first of its kind, is still being tested. Technicians are working with Taser International, in a bid to create a TASER® electronic control device that is purposely made for wildlife use only. Technicians are also hoping that when they have developed the new device, it will continue to follow its non-lethal counterpart for wildlife management officials.