A Wildlife Article used with permission from All-Creatures.org

Bill Crain discusses New Jersey's annual black bear hunt and shares actions you can take to urge Governor Phil Murphy to end these cruel and unnecessary killings.

New Jersey's Black Bear Hunt
From Bill Crain
October 2025

Photos provided by Bill Crain

Despite countless protests and appeals to the State government, the first segment of New Jersey's annual Black Bear Hunt is taking place October 13-18. It's an archery season. The second, firearms, season runs from Dec. 8 -13. If less than 20% of the tagged bears are killed during that December week, the bear hunt will be extended 4 days. Last year (2024), 472 black bears were killed.

The State's wildlife officials say hunting is needed to lower the population, but they haven't given nonlethal methods a serious try.

Black bears are basically shy, intelligent animals. Cubs grow up playing together and the mothers are exceptionally caring. The bears intend humans no harm. There has been only one (1) recorded human death from a bear encounter in New Jersey history.

Public responses have been overwhelming opposed to the hunts. But hunters are disproportionately involved in the State decision-making bodies.

The Animal Protection League of New Jersey asks people to contact the Governor, Phil Murphy, and urge him to halt this cruel hunt. His phone number is 609 292 6000. Or Google Governor Phil Murphy and see how to send him an email.

--Bill Crain

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Posted on All-Creatures.org: October 13, 2025
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