FWC says Florida black bear population is doing great

A recent study by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says that black bears are doing just fine in Florida.

The population survey indicates the statewide population is now about 4,350 adult bears.

The FWC says that shows how state conservation measures are working well and have propelled the growth of Florida bear populations from the 1970s level of 300 to 500 bears.

Field surveys show strong growth in adult black bear populations in the panhandle and in the Southern Bear Management Unit.

A comparison of 2002 and 2015 estimates indicates bear numbers nearly doubled in the Eastern Panhandle Bear Management Unit which includes Franklin County.

The local bear population is now estimated at 1,080 bears.

In the South Bear Management Unit, the population increased 64 percent to more than 1,150 bears.

In the West Panhandle Bear Management Unit, bear numbers increased 75 percent and are now estimated at 140 bears.


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