When is it Safe to Shoot a Black Bear?

Due to increased reports of Black Bear sightings, officials are explaining what your rights are when confronted.

Wildlife and Fisheries Maria Davidson says, "if a bear is attacking you may defend yourself? Of course you can, and then you immediately come out and you call local law enforcement."

Davidson suggests you first try to deter the bear from getting closer to you by waving your hands in the air, then make yourself larger. Bears have terrible eyesight and will usually run away. "Typically bears in Louisiana are very shy and their reluctant to come in close contact with people," says Davidson.