No, bear wrestling isn’t prohibited in Iowa—that’s a law from states like Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Missouri aimed at stopping exploitative animal shows. Iowa regulates exotic pets like bears as prohibited species without permits and bans taking black bears except in threats, but no specific wrestling ban exists. The headline likely confuses Iowa with those Southern states where it’s a felony.
Actual Iowa Animal Rules
Iowa classifies bears as prohibited exotic animals, banning possession or sale without special permission.
Black bears hold no protected status, allowing harvest if they’re a direct threat to people or livestock.
These focus on safety and wildlife management, not entertainment fights.
States with Bear Wrestling Bans
Alabama makes promoting or engaging in bear wrestling a Class B felony, with bear forfeiture.
Louisiana added it to animal cruelty laws in 1992 after humane society complaints.
Oklahoma and others followed suit to curb poor bear treatment in traveling shows.
