Early estimates show New York’s 2025 bear harvest was among the highest in 70 years.
The state's Department of Environmental Conservation said hunters harvested more than 1,700 black bears during the season, making it the second highest since they began tracking in 1955. Hunters harvested around 4% more bears statewide than last season, and are up 18% in the last ten years.
DEC officials said the big game management plan helps control populations while also providing hunting opportunities.
"The recovery and growth of New York’s bear population is testament to DEC’s vigilant wildlife management efforts,” said DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton.
They attribute the record-setting season to an ongoing expansion of bear territory from the most remote and mountainous regions to all areas of the state except Long Island and New York City.
