Are bears and wolves dangerous to humans and domestic animals? Our large predators were hunted with pits, loops, traps, irons, poison, and firearms with varying degrees of success until the late 19th century. The practice of paying bounties began as early as 1647. With the search for nests, and modern firearms, bear and wolf populations were reduced to such small proportions in the late 19th century that animal welfare, began to raise its head. For the past hundred years, a balance has been sought between nature and human hunting. The forms of hunting have been influenced by a unique material and social culture, as well as perceptions of the relationship between animals and humans.