No, bear wrestling is not explicitly illegal in New Mexico under current state law, despite viral lists claiming otherwise. This notion traces back to outdated “dumb laws” compilations that misattribute old Oklahoma or Alabama statutes to New Mexico, with no basis in the New Mexico Statutes like Chapter 17 on game animals.​
Animal Cruelty Laws
New Mexico’s general cruelty statutes (Section 30-18-1) prohibit mistreatment of animals, including fighting or baiting, which could encompass bear wrestling as a misdemeanor or felony depending on harm caused. Game laws ban unauthorized possession or harm to bears except for livestock defense, with violations as misdemeanors.​
Myth Origins
“Dumb law” sites link bear wrestling to states like Alabama but falsely extend it nationwide, ignoring modern animal welfare reforms. No active New Mexico code targets “bear wrestling” specifically; enforcement falls under broader protections.​
Other Prohibited Activities
- Cockfighting remains illegal statewide since 2007, with felony penalties.​
- Exotic animal ownership requires permits; unpermitted bears violate regulations.​
- Hunting bears demands licenses, with strict seasons and methods.
SOURCES
[1](https://law.justia.com/codes/new-mexico/2018/chapter-17/article-2/section-17-2-7/)
[2](https://www.reddit.com/r/legaladviceofftopic/comments/u7q7v4/in_what_states_can_i_still_wrestle_a_bear/)
[3](https://aldf.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Animal-Protection-Laws-of-New-Mexico-2018.pdf)
[4](https://people.howstuffworks.com/weird-laws.htm)
[5](https://www.facebook.com/100057246288234/posts/no-states-in-the-united-states-currently-allow-bear-wrestling-it-is-explicitly-i/1310702954181235/)
