According to wildlife ecologists and data from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), there has never been a single recorded human death caused by a black bear in the state of Florida since records began! Despite the presence of an estimated 4,000 black bears in Florida and increased human-bear encounters due to urban expansion into bear habitats, these animals are generally shy and avoidant of people!  Ecologists consistently emphasize that black bears are not inherently aggressive and rarely pose a lethal threat! Attacks are extremely rare and typically occur only when a bear feels cornered or is protecting its cubs. Science clearly shows that with proper waste management and public education, coexistence—not killing—is the safest and most effective approach! The FWC sold hunting licenses instead of using the science!