Did you hear? Huge news for black bears, especially black bear mamas and their cubs! 🐻 Following years of public outcry from experts and community members, the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission finally agreed to end spring black bear hunting in the state. Prior to the commission's vote, Washington was one of eight U.S. states that still allowed a spring bear hunt. Bears emerge from their dens in the spring in a vulnerable state, struggling to gain weight after winter hibernation. It's particularly challenging for mother bears, who must also feed their cubs. Until now, Washington gave hunters special permits to kill black bears in the spring anyway. “This vote was a long time coming, but it’s such welcome news,” said Sophia Ressler, a Center staff attorney. “It will protect helpless young cubs and end the pointless cruelty of this solely recreational hunt.” #blackbear #washingtonwildlife #blackbearcubs #protectwildlife #wildlifeconservation #bearandcub