Massachusetts conservation

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Changes to harvest reporting during Massachusetts bear hunting season

Black bear harvest reporting Hunters are required to report their black bear harvest within 48 hours. Hunters are strongly encouraged to use MassFishHunt to report harvested bears online using a computer or smartphone. Due to COVID-19 public health measures, no check stations will operate during the fall 2020 black bear season, including all MassWildlife locations. Please click here for instructions on how to report your bear online. 

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Some facts on black bears in Massachusetts

Are there bears in southeastern Massachusetts?Black bears in MassachusettsThough Massachusetts is the third most densely-populated state in the country, black bears have been increasing in numbers and distribution since the 1970s. The statewide population of bears is estimated to be over 4,500 animals and is growing and expanding eastward.