Louisiana is expanding black bear hunting just one year after its first season in decades, more than doubling the number of hunters allowed to participate and more than tripling the number of parishes where bears can be hunted.

For the first time in nearly a decade, Florida wildlife officials are considering a black bear hunt. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in December asked its staff to come up with proposals for a possible hunt as officials pointed to what they consider a now-flourishing bear population.

State game officials in Florida are proposing a black bear hunt in the state, where bear populations have been flourishing.

Louisiana approves more black bear hunting permits for 2025, with a season from Dec 6-21, and mandatory hunter training.

The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission is moving forward with plans to expand the black bear hunting season. Last December, the state had its first season in decades, and the commission has approved a notice to raise the number of bear tags.