What’s Up with All the Bear Sightings in Florida? Here’s What You Need to Know
Hey fellow Floridians, have you noticed more black bears popping up around our neighborhoods lately? You’re not alone! From viral beach bear sightings in Destin to unexpected guests in Lake Mary, it seems like these furry locals are becoming more common in the Sunshine State.
So, why the increase in bear appearances? Well, a few factors are at play here. First off, Florida’s doing its part with the Florida Wildlife Corridor Act, passed in 2021. This act not only sets aside $400 million to protect state lands but also makes sure these areas are safe from development, giving wildlife like our black bear friends room to roam.
But there’s a twist—while we’re protecting their habitats, the human population in Florida is also growing, leading to more potential encounters. According to the Florida Fish And Wildlife Conservation Commission, the black bear population has been on the rise since the 1980s, and as of now, we’ve got around 4,050 black bears in the state.