On May 21, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Committee (FWC) will consider hunting potential bears. The proposal will be submitted for public review and a final decision is expected in August.
The proposed hunt allowed the harvest of 187 bears in 31 counties in December, and permission was granted through random drawings. The proposal sparked both support and opposition.
Proponents argue that Florida black bear hunting is used as a tool to manage growing bear populations and deal with human conflict. The FWC notes that BEAR’s population has grown five times higher than its lowest population target, suggesting the need for population management.
“Regulated hunts can help reduce overcrowding in areas with high bear populations, and may result in less conflict with humans and other bears,” the FWC said.
Proponents also say the proceeds generated from bear hunting permits can be used to acquire land, restore habitat and other conservation efforts.
However, one group raised concerns about the bear’s impact on the population and the ethics of hunting.
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The humanitarian world of animals, formerly the American Humane Society, advocates for the use of “alternative management strategies.”
The humanitarian world of animals has just announced a vote that 81% of resident voters would oppose the resumption of Florida bear hunting season.
“The proposed season not only restores bear hunting, but also allows controversial cruel ways such as a pack of dogs unleashed to chase the bear. Hunters use food to lure the bears to the shooting range.
The group said in their polls that 81% of Floridians want a humanitarian solution to human conflict, and that the nation would prioritize effective, humanitarian, non-lethal methods than killing bears.
The FWC committee members will vote for the final decision for August 2025.
