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Florida Bear Hunt Debate Intensifies as Final Vote Approaches
Florida’s proposal to reinstate black bear hunting has sparked fierce debate as the state prepares for a final decision in August, with wildlife managers and conservation groups presenting different visions for the state’s estimated 4,050 black bears.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) gave preliminary approval in May for a December hunt issuing 187 permits, marking the first organized bear hunt since a troubled 2015 season that ended early after hunters killed 305 bears in just two days.
FWC officials argue the hunt represents sound wildlife management as bear populations have rebounded significantly since being removed from the threatened species list in 2012. Florida now has more bears than at any point in the last century.
“There is a finite amount of suitable bear habitat, so if bear populations continue to grow unchecked, at some point bears will have to start living in more marginal habitats, like neighborhoods,” the FWC states.
The commission emphasizes that regulated hunting generates conservation funding while serving as a management tool to slow population growth. Hunters would pay $300 for permits ($100 for Florida residents).
The proposal gained additional context following the May 5 death of 88-year-old Robert Markel, killed by a 263-pound bear in Collier County. However, FWC officials stress that human-bear conflicts aren’t the primary justification for hunting.
Opposition Concerns
Critics, including Bear Defenders and the Sierra Club’s Florida chapter, argue the hunt lacks scientific justification and relies on outdated population data from over a decade ago.
“This is a rich man’s hunt. It’s not science-based conservation,” said James Scott, former chair of the Sierra Club of Florida. Opponents argue that the FWC hasn’t demonstrated that bear populations exceed their habitat’s carrying capacity.
Animal advocates also criticize proposed hunting methods, including using dogs to chase bears, bow hunting, and baiting – practices they call “barbaric.”
Hunt opponents are organizing to purchase hunting licenses and apply for bear permits with no intention of hunting, hoping to reduce the number of bears killed. This strategy tests Florida’s new constitutional Amendment 2, which guarantees hunting rights.
“Never in my life did I think I’d be a hunter,” said Chuck O’Neal of Speak Up Wekiva. The tactic raises questions about whether intentionally blocking others’ hunting access conflicts with the intent of the amendment.
Sarasota protesters gather with signs that oppose the upcoming decision. Photo: Dave Blanchard
The FWC will make its final decision in August. If approved, the season could take place over 23 days in December. A petition opposing the hunt has gathered over 40,000 signatures.
The debate reflects broader tensions over wildlife management in a rapidly developing state where human-wildlife interactions are increasing. The August vote will determine whether regulated hunting becomes part of Florida’s conservation strategy once again.
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