In 2024, hunters in West Virginia set a new record by killing 2,479 black bears during the hunting season. According to reports from WTRF, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources stated that this number surpassed the previous record of 2,286 bears killed in 2023. The hunting season took place from September to December, with hunters taking to the forests and mountains of West Virginia in search of the elusive black bear.
The increase in the number of bears killed can be attributed to several factors, including a growing bear population and favorable hunting conditions. The Division of Natural Resources also credited successful bear management practices for the high numbers.
While the record number of bears killed may be celebrated by some hunters and wildlife management officials, it has also raised concerns among conservationists. Some are worried that the growing bear population may be threatened by the high number of killings. They argue that more sustainable hunting practices should be implemented to ensure the long-term health and stability of the bear population in West Virginia.
Overall, the record number of black bears killed in West Virginia in 2024 highlights the complex relationship between hunters, conservationists, and wildlife management officials in the state.
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Photo credit www.wtrf.com