Lafayette, LA – Louisiana’s first black bear hunting season in 35 years came to a close on Sunday, with hunters harvesting a total of 10 bears, including one that weighed an impressive 700 pounds. This marked a significant shift in the state’s wildlife management practices, as black bears were once considered endangered and had been protected under the Endangered Species Act until 2016. The reinstatement of bear hunting was authorized following the passage of a bill earlier this year, which established a lottery system for hunters to obtain permits.
The Louisiana black bear, a species native to the state, was removed from the federal endangered species list in 2016 after a successful recovery effort. Following its delisting, the state legislature approved measures to allow hunting, citing population growth and the need for population control. This hunting season, which ran from November 1 through December 22, was the first since the species was removed from the endangered list.
The lottery system, implemented to regulate the hunt, allowed for a limited number of permits, ensuring that the harvest did not exceed sustainable levels. Despite concerns from some environmental groups, who argued that hunting could threaten the species’ recovery, state officials emphasized that the black bear population had reached a healthy size and that the hunt was part of a broader wildlife management strategy.
Among the 10 bears killed during the season, one stood out due to its massive size. Weighing nearly 700 pounds, it was the largest bear recorded during the season. The hunt, while historic, has sparked debates about the future of black bear conservation in Louisiana. Critics worry that hunting could slow the species’ recovery, while supporters argue it is a necessary step in maintaining a balanced ecosystem and ensuring the long-term survival of the bears.
As the season ends, wildlife experts will continue to monitor the bear population and evaluate the impact of the hunt. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has stated that future hunting seasons will depend on ongoing research and population assessments, ensuring that any decisions are based on sound scientific data.