Recently, the worst bear attack on a human in Florida history occurred. Now, Florida Wildlife Officials are asking the State for $500 million to assist them in responding swiftly to bear complaints.
"This will give us more boots on the ground and more equipment to deal with bear issues," Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission executive director Nick Wiley said Wednesday.
The state’s bear population had decreased to about 300 in 1974, the state had banned hunting bears. Now, the estimated population of bears in Florida is around 3,000. With the growing population, the complaints are growing as well. For example, a bear complaint hotline handled about 4,000 calls in 2011. In just one year, the number has increased by 50% to 6,000.
The requested money is for expanding the network of bear response agents and launch a statewide survey of the bear population.
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