THE BLACK BEAR. 



The Black Bear is still numerous in many parts of Florida, espe- 

 ciall}^ near the coast. Contrary to what might be expected, it grows 

 as large, if not larger, in Florida than elsewhere in the United States. 

 I have killed old males which I believe weighed over live hundred 

 pounds, and old hunters have repeatedly told me that they have 

 killed them weighing six hundred pounds. Unfortunately, the above 



weights were estimated and the animals were not actually placed 

 upon the scales. However, I am satisfied that there is at least one 

 bear in Florida alive to-day (or he was last spring) which will tip 



