Vermont Fish And Wildlife Working To Bring Bear Population Into Sync With Habitat
It was once unusual to see a bear but now they seem to be everywhere. People regularly compare stories of bears on their property or encountered in places bears should not be.
Vermont’s black bear population is estimated at 7,500 to 8,900 bears based on 2025 data, the most recent available, according to the Vermont Department of Fish & Wildlife. This marks the fifth consecutive year that the bear population estimate is above the state’s objective of 3,500 to 5,500 bears.
Be Bear Aware, Be Part Of The Solution, Not Part Of The Problem
“Preventing bears from having access to human-related foods is key to successful coexistence with these long-lived and intelligent animals,” said Comeau.
Vermont Bear Population Increases, Department Launches Study To Understand Why
It is legal to take a bear that has been collared for the study. If they do, hunters are asked to contact the department and to treat the GPS collars with care until they can be returned to a state biologist.