State aims to understand bear population trends


A bear sits on a lawn in Whitingham. File photo

SOUTHERN VERMONT - In recent years, bear populations statewide have shown steady growth. A recently launched study by the Department of Fish and Wildlife aims to better understand population and reproduction trends. 
Data from 2024 estimates that Vermont’s black bear population is between 6,800 and 8,000 bears, nearly double the state’s objective of 3,500 to 5,500 black bears. 2024 marked the fourth consecutive year that the population was above the state’s objective. 


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