Florida considers controversial black bear hunt amid strong opposition – Bedford Gazette

A truck outside a Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission hearing about proposed bear hunting with signs against the hunt Wednesday, May 21, 2025, in Ocala, Fla.
Citizens attending a Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission hearing about proposed bear hunting, wear t-shirts against legalized bear hunting in Florida Wednesday, May 21, 2025, in Ocala, Fla.
An overflow crowd fills the room at a Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission hearing about proposed bear hunting Wednesday, May 21, 2025, in Ocala, Fla.
Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission executive director Roger Young, left, and chairman Rodney Barreto conduct a hearing about proposed bear hunting in Florida Wednesday, May 21, 2025, in Ocala, Fla.

A truck outside a Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission hearing about proposed bear hunting with signs against the hunt Wednesday, May 21, 2025, in Ocala, Fla.
Citizens attending a Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission hearing about proposed bear hunting, wear t-shirts against legalized bear hunting in Florida Wednesday, May 21, 2025, in Ocala, Fla.
An overflow crowd fills the room at a Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission hearing about proposed bear hunting Wednesday, May 21, 2025, in Ocala, Fla.
Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission executive director Roger Young, left, and chairman Rodney Barreto conduct a hearing about proposed bear hunting in Florida Wednesday, May 21, 2025, in Ocala, Fla.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Ten years ago, Florida held a black bear hunt that resulted in more than 300 animals killed in just two days before it was halted early. It was controversial from the start and hasn’t happened since — until possibly later this year amid strong opposition once again.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission met Wednesday in Ocala to consider a bear hunt for December and annually into the future, possibly allowing the use of up to six dogs to corner the bears. Methods could include bowhunting, similar to rules for hunting deer, and bear hunting in baited areas.
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Cloudy with occasional light rain…mainly in the morning. High 56F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 90%..
Overcast. Low 48F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph.
Updated: May 22, 2025 @ 4:57 am

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