Florida Black Bear Killing Questioned

FWC Offers Reward For Info

 
Officers with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) are seeking the public's help in their investigation into the recent death of a Florida black bear.
           
The bear's carcass was found dumped and wrapped in a tarp last Friday in the Golden Gate Estates area of Collier County. Decomposition had set in, and investigators suspect foul play.
          
 "This is a disturbing case," said FWC Capt. Jayson Horadam. "Bears are protected under state law. It is illegal to kill or wound bears. The offense is punishable as a felony."

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call the FWC's Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922. Callers may remain anonymous and could be eligible for a reward if their information leads to an arrest.
           

The FWC is committed to reducing human-bear conflicts. Access to unsecured garbage encourages bears to remain in neighborhoods, which creates conflicts. For more information about living with black bears visit MyFWC.com/Bear.