Maryland has no specific statewide law banning bear wrestling, unlike states like Missouri or Oklahoma where it’s explicitly prohibited as animal cruelty. Viral “weird laws” lists often misattribute such rules across states without evidence in Maryland’s code.
Animal Cruelty Laws
Maryland enforces broad animal cruelty statutes under Criminal Law § 10-615, covering fights or mistreatment of bears or other wildlife, with penalties up to 3 years in prison and $5,000 fines. Bear wrestling would likely violate this, but it’s not uniquely singled out.
Other Prohibited Activities
- Wildlife Killing Contests: Banned since 2021 for foxes, coyotes, and raccoons to curb inhumane events.​
- Exotic Animal Ownership: Strict permits required; unauthorized possession or mistreatment leads to seizure and charges.​
These rules prioritize conservation over spectacle, with rare enforcement unless cruelty is evident.​
