New York hunters had a successful 2020 black bear season. The New York Department of Environmental Conservation (NY-DEC) reported a total of 1,723 black bears harvested with hunters in Sullivan and St. Lawrence counties taking the lead with 215 and 122 total bears, respectively, NY Upstate reports.

“Black bears continue to prosper in New York’s excellent bear habitat,” said NY-DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos. “Bear hunting seasons allow DEC wildlife managers to collect valuable information that our scientists use to help maintain healthy bear populations. And successful bear hunters help maintain populations at sustainable levels and are rewarded with outstanding food for their families and friends.”

According to NY Upstate, hunters in the Southern Zone took about 1,152 bears, which was a bit lower than 2019 with 1,179 bears; however, hunters “had record success during the early and bow seasons.” In the Northern Zone, 571 bears were harvested, which is the highest number reported since 2015.

NY-DEC relies on hunter reporting for harvest estimates.

Congratulations, hunters!