US Edition
Florida considers controversial black bear hunt amid strong opposition
- The Florida commission responsible for wildlife management voted 4-1 to move forward with a contentious black bear hunting proposal, scheduling the final decision for August 2025 in Ocala.
- The proposal arises from a growing bear population exceeding 4,000 and increasing human-bear conflicts, including a rare fatal attack earlier this month in Collier County.
- Commissioners considered hunt guidelines allowing a December hunt with up to 187 permits, hunting with dogs, baiting, and access to private land, amid strong public opposition.
- More than 13,000 public comments show about 75% oppose the hunt, while supporters cite population control and safety; Marion County Sheriff Woods said, "I think we keep not only our citizens safe."
- If approved, the hunt would be Florida's first in nearly a decade, aiming for regulated population management but faces continuing debate over scientific evidence and ethical concerns.
16 Articles
16 Articles
Another barbaric ‘harvesting’ of bears in Florida
It will soon be open season on bears in Florida again. Despite surveys showing overwhelming opposition, wildlife officials have tentatively approved a three-week bear “harvest” in December. It will be the first bear hunt in a decade. The stated goal of the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission is to remove 187 bears from an estimated state population of 4,000. In parts of Florida, bear sightings have become increasingly common as the m…
Florida gives preliminary approval to black bear hunt
Florida wildlife officials gave preliminary approval Wednesday for the first black bear hunt since one 10 years ago that was halted early after more than 300 bears were killed in only two days. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission voted 4-1 at a meeting in Ocala in favor of a bear hunt in December and annually into the future, allowing the use of...
State board endorses first Florida bear hunt since 2015
The state wildlife commission on Wednesday endorsed Florida's first black bear hunt in a decade, turning aside fears of animal advocates who worry the plan for a December hunt will lead to a needless slaughter.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 67% of the sources are Center
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
Ownership
To view ownership data please Upgrade to Vantage
