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 the bear population estimate is above the state’s objective of 3,500 to 5,500 bears.

The department uses a statistical model based on several parameters to generate its bear population estimate each year. These include hunter harvest data on the overall number, age and sex of harvested bears, as well as the number of bears killed outside of hunting season, including in vehicle collisions and severe human-wildlife conflicts.

“Our model shows the bear population has remained above our goal of 3,500 to 5,500 bears since 2021,” said Jaclyn Comeau, the department’s lead bear biologist. “Increasing frequency and severity of human-bear conflicts during this time also support the model results of a growing bear population.”

To better understand the drivers of this trend, this past year the department launched a new research study on black bear reproduction. Initial results are not anticipated until 2031. Once available, they will complement the department’s approach to estimating the state’s bear population trends.

In addition to proactive coexistence, Vermont’s bear management strategy relies on habitat conservation and a sustainable, regulated bear hunt. This year’s hunt is September 1-November 22. Despite harvests above the 10-year average for the past six years, including record harvests of more than 1,000 in both 2024 and 2025, the population continues to grow.

To generate a modest increase in bear harvest, the Fish & Wildlife Board is considering proposals to increase the length of bear season through the end of regulated deer hunting in mid-December. The proposal also would allow hunters in certain parts of the state with high bear numbers to harvest two bears each season.

The Vermont Bear Hound Association contributed $3,042 to the Fish and Wildlife Department to support ongoing research with two new GPS tracking collars. Bear Project leader Jaclyn Comeau said the collars will be used to monitor female bears and help collect data on reproduction success, food sources and movements. The donation will increase the number of collared bears to 20 in the study. Department officials are collaring bears in the Green Mountains and Connecticut River Valley.