Florida Launches New Season of Regulated Bear Hunts Across the State
A sanctioned hunt for black bears in Florida began, with 172 hunting licenses awarded through a lottery system. The hunt, which will run until December 28, aims to manage the state’s bear population, estimated to be over 4,000.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission set the harvest goal, despite opposition from some groups. A judge recently rejected a lawsuit filed by Bear Warriors United, which argued that the commission used outdated data to set the goal.
Some individuals and organizations, including the Sierra Club Florida, have purchased hunting licenses with the intention of not using them, in an effort to spare bears’ lives. Approximately 50 tag holders are expected to abstain from hunting.
The hunt is scheduled to take place on private land in northern Florida, where large male black bears have been spotted. Hunters will be required to follow strict guidelines, and the commission expects to hold the hunt annually.
The hunt’s outcome is uncertain, with some predicting that around 100 bears will be harvested. The commission will monitor the situation and adjust its management plan accordingly.