Bears as Predators ~

[brotherbear]

Continued from post #127...
However, "dissipation and rioting was a universal indulgence, and in absence of other kinds of amusements bull and bear fights became a very popular divertisement. Admission to these shows of animal ferocity ranged from ten to twenty-five dollars." The fights were conducted by two Mexican managers in such a way that "usually several combats could be had between a bull and bear before either was killed, which made this novel sport one of immense profit to those who owned the animals." ( Buel, 1882 ). 
The revenue-producing aspect of these contests early received official attention. In 1853 the California legislature made provision for licensing bear-and-bull fights, imposing a tax of twenty dollars per exhibition, payable into the local county treasury ( Stats., 1853 ). In 1856 an amendment provided that half the receipts go to the state ( Stats., 1856 ), and in 1863 ( Stats. ) the fee was raised to twenty-five dollars and the permit was to be issued by the State Comptroller ( letter, T. H. Mugford, May 19, 1954 ). Reply