Many citizens of Florida wish to see bears continue to thrive in the state. The challenge is to learn how problems with bears can be avoided in residential areas that are in or near bear habitat. We need a plan clearly grounded in science that is in the best long-term interest of the black bears and our FL ecosystem. This current proposal is a premature 'trophy hunt'. There is no scientific backing to this suggested hunt. The State of FL should first work to regulate bear-human interactions. The answer is to reduce the things that attract black bears to populated areas- like trash.
- Alert neighbors of bears in the area and ensure that no one is intentionally or unintentionally feeding black bears. One person feeding bears can create a problem bear that may affect the entire neighborhood.
- Do not feed bears! Feeding bears rewards them for coming into residential areas. Bears feeding on unnatural food sources around a home encourages bears to lose their fear of humans and therefore they will be more likely to approach people – a situation that rarely ends well for the bear and could have potential safety issues for humans.
- Do not leave pet foods out overnight. If pets are fed outside, remove any excess food after the animals have finished eating. Never store pet food on a porch or in an open garage where a bear can get to it.
- Clean outdoor grills. After you use an outdoor grill, clean it thoroughly and make sure that all grease and fat residues are removed.
- Make bird feeders inaccessible to bears: bring in at night.
- Remove or secure all potential food sources!
- Store garbage inside buildings or other areas that bears cannot get to.
- If the area is served by a garbage collection service, place garbage and recyclables out only during the day of collection.
- Purchase bear-proof garbage cans or bear-proof your existing garbage container by outfitting it with a secure latching system.
The current proposed hunting plan allows baiting. It also allows up to six dogs to 'corner' bears. This is a cruel and inhumane way to manage the bear population. Our history reminds us that the 2015 FL bear hunt was chaotic. It resulted in cubs and moms being killed. This one could be worse. Let's use science based measures first!