We, the undersigned citizens and supporters of wildlife protection, demand the immediate suspension of the Florida black bear hunt authorized by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

Under Article IV, Section 9 of the Florida Constitution, the State of Florida is entrusted with the protection and responsible management of wildlife. This responsibility requires sound science, transparency, and humane standards. The authorization of a recreational bear hunt-despite overwhelming public opposition and without current statewide population data-violates the spirit and ethical duty of that mandate.

The continuation of this hunt reflects feckless leadership at the highest levels of state government, placing political convenience and special-interest pressure above science, public safety, and moral responsibility.

Why This Hunt Must Be Stopped

*Active legal challenges dispute the hunt's legality, citing:

     °Reliance on outdated population estimates

     °Conflict with Florida's own Black Bear Management Plan

     °Improper delegation of permitting authority without adequate              public oversight

*Scientific research shows:

     °Legal hunting is a leading cause of black bear mortality

     °Non-lethal methods (secure trash, deterrents, education, habitat        protection) are often as effective or more effective at reducing            human bear conflict than killing bears

     °Human development and habitat loss-not overpopulation alone            drive most bear encounters

Florida's black bears are a keystone species and a living symbol of our state's natural heritage. They are not vermin. They are not trophies. They deserve protection.

Our Demands

We call for:

1.  Immediate cancellation of all Florida black bear hunting permits             and seasons

2.  A full, independent scientific review using current genetic                       population data

3.  Mandatory statewide implementation of non-lethal conflicts                 prevention strategies

4.  Stronger habitat protection and land use planning

5.  Full transparency in bear mortality and conflict reporting

6.  Independent scientific oversight of all bear-management decisions

Conclusion

This hunt is unnecessary, scientifically questionable, legally contested, and morally indefensible. Florida has the tools to manage wildlife humanely without resorting to trophy killing.

Stop the Florida black bear hunt - now.

As a Florida resident of Seminole County, I refuse to stand by while Florida's black bears are killed for sport. I urge the state to protect our black bears. Lethal hunting is unnecessary and inhumane.

Please sign and share this petition and help protect Florida's black bears.

Alison Hines