Florida wildlife agency approves December bear hunt

For the first time in a decade, Florida will allow a black bear hunt, with wildlife commissioners unanimously approving a 23-day season in December. The hunt will permit the killing of up to 187 bears statewide, including 55 in the Southwest Florida zone covering Lee and Collier counties. Supporters say the hunt, which allows baiting and hunting with dogs, is grounded in science and will help manage a growing bear population, estimated at 4,000 statewide. Critics call it premature, citing the 2015 hunt that ended in two days when quotas were quickly met. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission also approved a program for large private landowners to hunt bears starting in 2026.