Oregon Man Arrested for Attempting to Hunt Squirrels with Teeth in Texas
On October 9, 2025, Game Wardens with Texas Parks and Wildlife arrested Ethan McNeely, a 39-year-old Oregon native, near the dam at Lake Tawakoni for hunting without a license and disorderly conduct. According to officials, McNeely was discovered crouched in the woods attempting to catch squirrels using only his bare hands and teeth.
McNeely reportedly told officers he was “a primal predator, not a sportsman,” and claimed that his “God-given claws and fangs” exempted him from state hunting regulations. He further argued that if he caught an animal with his molars, it was a matter between him and nature. Wardens noted that McNeely was spitting out bark during the encounter and growled at officers, which contributed to the disorderly conduct charge.
Texas Parks and Wildlife officials acknowledged that McNeely’s hunting method was unusual but emphasized that state law does not provide exemptions for individuals who choose unconventional or “primitive” techniques. All hunters in Texas are required to possess a valid hunting license, regardless of their chosen method.
McNeely was booked and later released. He maintains that he is being unfairly targeted for embracing what he describes as a “primal lifestyle.” In a statement following his arrest, he said, “They can cage me, but they’ll never cage my inner wolf.”
The incident has drawn attention online for its unusual nature, but authorities stress that wildlife regulations are in place to ensure safety and conservation, and all individuals must comply with licensing requirements.