What is the Florida black bear population?

The state's black bear population had dwindled to a few hundred in the 1980s, but is now estimated to be around 4,000 bears.

How many bear hunt permits were issued?

A total of 172 bear hunt permits were issued through a random lottery, with over 160,000 entries submitted.

How are the Florida black bears affected by roads?

Central Florida, which has the most bears at around 1,200, has seen many bears hit and killed while crossing roads every year.

Home / Environment / Activists Acquire Bear Hunt Permits to Protect Threatened Florida Bears

Activists Acquire Bear Hunt Permits to Protect Threatened Florida Bears

10 Oct, 2025

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Summary

Over 160,000 entries submitted to lottery for 172 bear hunt permits
At least 39 permit-winners unlikely to hunt, aiming to reduce bear kills
Central Florida has most bears, with many hit and killed crossing roads

Activists Acquire Bear Hunt Permits to Protect Threatened Florida Bears

As of October 10th, 2025, the majority of the special permits to hunt Florida black bears in December have been claimed, according to a state wildlife spokesperson. However, a significant number of these permits are now in the hands of hunt opponents, who may offer a reprieve to an equal number of bears.

The permits were distributed through a random lottery which cost $5 per entry. More than 160,000 entries were submitted, with application numbers bolstered by a vigorous effort from conservationists to undermine the planned 172-bear harvest, the state's first in a decade. At least 39 permit-winners are unlikely to hunt, as they entered the lottery specifically to reduce the chances that bonafide hunters would win a tag entitling them to "take" or "harvest" a bear.