More than 100 black bears killed in annual Maryland hunt

BALTIMORE — Maryland’s nineteenth annual black bear hunt has concluded.

Solely 950 permits have been issued this season out of 4,775 candidates.

In response to the Maryland Division of Pure Sources, 103 black bears have been killed throughout the six-day hunt which spanned from October 24 by means of 29.

Of these bears, 62 have been feminine and 41 have been male. The heaviest bear weighed in at 427 kilos, properly above the common weight of 177 kilos.

The very best quantity was reported out of Garrett County, the place 70 black bears have been harvested.

Different surrounding Western Maryland jurisdictions additionally reported bear killings, together with in Allegany (19), Washington (10), and Frederick Counties (4).

About 67 p.c of the bears have been hunted on personal land.

Though this yr’s searching numbers greater than doubled 2021 ranges, it nonetheless fell barely in need of the earlier 5-year common of 116 bears.

Higher climate and meals situations have been credited for the year-over-year enhance, in addition to a further day added to the searching season.

Officers say a brief searching season is important in managing and sustaining the state’s wholesome bear inhabitants.