Trouble for the Florida Black Bear (Ursus americanus floridanus)
Black bears are resilient food generalists and have adapted to
an environment that is increasingly altered and dominated by human use. Black
bears in the state of Florida now are forced to live in very close proximity to
residential areas. Human—bear conflict is on the rise. According to Siemer, et.
al, black bear attacks on humans are rare; however on the rise. These negative
interactions have changed bear management actions, which are not always good
for the bears.
According to Defenders of Wildlife, nearly 20 acres
(81,000 m2) of wildlife habitat are lost to new development
every hour in Florida. Additionally, bears being injured or killed by motorists
is another threat to regional populations. Since 1976 there have been more than
1,356 documented cases of bears being killed in Florida. Over 100 bears are
killed on Florida roadways each year. Now there is an increased threat from
human animal conflict.
The most recent local example of a human/bear conflict
can be seen
here.
References:
Defenders of Widlife: http://www.defenders.org/press-release/florida-black-bear-danger
Siemer, W., Hart, P., Decker, D., and Shanahan, J., 2009.
Factors the Influence Concern About Human—Black Bear Interactions in
Residential Settings. Human Dimensions of Wildlife. 14:185-197. Online.
Available through Routledge.
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