No, bear wrestling isn’t prohibited by any specific law in West Hawaii (or Hawaii generally)—it’s another urban myth from “dumb laws” compilations with no basis in state or county codes.
Myth Breakdown
“West Hawaii” likely mangles references to Hawaii County ordinances, but no bear-related bans exist; bears aren’t native or commonly kept there.
- Hawaii’s animal cruelty statute (HRS §711-1109) covers harm or exploitation broadly, making staged fights illegal nationwide under the federal Animal Welfare Act, but not “wrestling” explicitly.
- Real Hawaii quirks include fines for not owning a boat (false) or shark fin sales bans—not bears.
Actual Prohibitions
Exotic animals like bears require strict permits; violations trigger cruelty charges.
| Activity | Legal? | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Bear Wrestling | Myth | No statute |
| Animal Fights | No | Cruelty laws |
| Exotic Ownership | Permit only | State regs |
