In 2018 Gov. Phil Murphy of New Jersey labored diligently to implement a bear-hunting ban on state lands, stopping a whole bunch of bears from being slaughtered, and in 2021 he managed to ban the hunts fully. Sadly, nevertheless, Murphy reportedly now plans to terminate the bans and as soon as once more enable these lovely animals to be gunned down. And the slaughtered bears received’t be the one victims, as wild households will likely be torn aside and orphaned cubs left susceptible to hunger and predation. Black bears are glorious moms—affectionate, devoted, and attentive to their infants—and cubs’ possibilities of surviving hibernation with out their moms are slim.
As well as, permitting hunters to bloodbath bears received’t obtain the aim of decreasing or resolving human-bear conflicts. Wild-animal populations are immediately linked to the supply of meals: Numerous research present that so long as meals sources stay out there, wild species, together with bears, will breed at an accelerated fee to interchange misplaced relations. Communitywide initiatives to cut back attractants, similar to offering bear-resistant trash cans, enclosing compost piles, maintaining barbecue grills clear of drippings, and by no means feeding wildlife (even birds), are far more practical at decreasing bear encounters.
New Jersey’s bears urgently want your assist. Please take a second to fill out this contact type. Thank Murphy for having staunchly advocated for bears, and politely urge him to not flip his again on these regal wild animals now. Then comply with up with a name to the governor’s workplace at 609-292-6000 and respectfully ask him to maintain bears protected. Lastly, please ahead this alert to all of your contacts!