Florida's Bear Hunting Returns: Controversial Season Begins This December

Florida's Bear Hunting Returns: Controversial Season Begins This December

In a landmark decision, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has voted unanimously to resume black bear hunting, a practice that has lain dormant for a decade. This significant move comes as the commission aims to manage the burgeoning bear population, which currently stands around 4,050, an impressive rebound from a perilous low of 300-500 bears in the 1970s due to habitat loss and unregulated hunting. The revival of the hunting season, set to last 23 days starting December 6, 2023, marks the first time since the hunt was abruptly halted after just two days in 2015. During that earlier hunt, nearly 300 bears were harvested before the program was cut short due to concerns over rapid animal kills and regulatory violations, as reported by South Florida Reporter.

This decision was not without controversy. The recent meeting took place in Havana, Gadsden County, where many vocal opponents and supporters were present. The public testimony reflected a nearly even split in opinions, with countless individuals weighing in on the ethics and necessity of the hunt. Local officials from counties such as Gulf, Liberty, Jackson, Bay, and Franklin touted the hunt as a necessary step to alleviate growing concerns over bears encroaching into residential areas, describing them as “pests and threats” to families and schools. Conversely, opponents like Marsha Biggs highlighted the absence of scientific justification for the hunt, arguing it could harm mother bears and exacerbate ethical issues associated with hunting practices like baiting and hounding.

Structure of the Hunt

The commission’s new regulations introduce a lottery system for permits, with a fee set at $5 to apply. For those lucky enough to be selected, Florida residents will pay $100, while non-residents will face a fee of $300. Notably, only 10% of permits will be allocated to non-residents. The commission plans to issue a total of 187 permits across four bear management units (BMUs) spanning 31 counties, allowing hunters to target one bear per permit. The hunt is intended as a means to sustainably manage the bear population, as calls reporting nuisance bears surged from about 2,000 in 2016 to over 6,000 in 2024, a justifiable concern for communities.

Permitted hunting practices include the use of bait stations and various firearms, including shotguns, rifles, and archery equipment. Interestingly, the use of hunting dogs will be permitted starting in 2027, after two years of preparation and training for both the dogs and their handlers. As one could expect, with such expanded methods and increased hunting opportunities, there’s a palpable tension in the air. The commission acknowledges the balancing act they must perform between wildlife conservation and community safety, an ongoing challenge that bears watching (pun intended).

Consequences and Criticism

Despite the commission’s strong push toward reinstating bear hunting, legal challenges loom. Attorney Raquel Levy has announced plans to file a state administrative challenge against the hunt, claiming that the commission has not relied on scientific data to base their decision, and is even advocating for the relisting of bears as a threatened species due to habitat concerns. Given that opinion polls indicate a substantial resistance to reopening bear hunting—81% of Florida residents opposed this hunt—the friction between wildlife advocates and local officials is expected to continue simmering.

As we gear up for the return of bear hunting in Florida, it’s crucial for residents to stay informed and engaged. Keeping the lines of communication open with wildlife agencies, understanding the implications of hunting practices, and cooperating in wildlife management can lead to a more balanced relationship between humans and Florida’s iconic black bears. For the record, with 34 out of 40 states allowing regulated black bear hunting, Florida is positioning itself to join this broader trend while navigating the complex needs of its communities.

As we prepare for the hunt this December, bear in mind the intricate dynamics at play here. The challenges of wildlife management, community safety, and ethical considerations will undoubtedly shape the narrative surrounding Florida’s black bears for years to come. Will residents find a way to coexist with our furry neighbors or will the hunt lead to more polarizing debates? Only time will tell.

For further details on the specifics of this upcoming hunt, visit the USA Today and Steelers Wire for insights on bear management strategies in Florida.