Bear attacks Florida man on eve of state's first hunt in more than 2 decades

Post date: Oct 28, 2015 1:43:56 PM

Feed Loader Protesters opposed to bear hunting in Florida demonstrate on a street in downtown Gainesville, Fla., Friday, Oct. 23, 2015. Florida wildlife officials have sold more than 3,200 permits to hunters from all over, including 1970s rocker Ted Nugent and Liesa Priddy, a rancher and Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission member who voted to approve the new hunts. The hunt starts Saturday and goes for a week, or until 320 bears are killed. (AP Photo/Jason H. Dearen)

Associated Press

October 24, 2015 — 12:15pm

EASTPOINT, Fla. — Wildlife officials are investigating after a bear attacked a man outside Eastpoint motel.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation officials say Charles Griffin was walking near the Sportsman's Lodge Motel and Marina on Friday night when he encountered a bear. He was released after being treated for nonlife-threatening injuries. Wildlife officials are conducting trapping efforts.

The attack comes on the eve of the state's first bear hunt in more than 20 years.

Officials have sold more than 3,200 permits for Saturday's controversial hunt. The season ends after a week, or as soon as the cap of 320 kills is reached.

Protests are planned around the state. Activists said the state should instead focus on trash management and curbing the smell of food in garbage.

Wildlife officials say the black bear population had grown to 3,500 — up from a few hundred in the 1970s — and presents a safety problem.