EAST RUTHERFORD — Gov. Chris Christie said he would listen to recommendations if state officials determine the six-day bear hunt should be cut short. At a press conference this morning, Christie said if the hunt outpaces expectations, he would consider cutting it short. But he said, that recommendation would have to be science-based and come from Fish and Wildlife...
EAST RUTHERFORD — Gov. Chris Christie said he would listen to recommendations if state officials determine the six-day bear hunt should be cut short.
At a press conference this morning, Christie said if the hunt outpaces expectations, he would consider cutting it short. But he said, that recommendation would have to be science-based and come from Fish and Wildlife officials.
The bear hunt is in its second day and more than 260 bears were killed the first day. The hunt has drawn legal action and criticism from animal protection groups.
In discussing the bear hunt, Christie acknowledged that he is not a hunter.
"I don't hunt anything in particular," he said, drawing laughter from the crowd. "This is not a philosophical issue, at least for me. To me, it's a scientific issue."
State officials issued 7,800 hunting permits this year. Hunters are expected to kill up to 700 of the estimated 3,400 bears in New Jersey during the hunt.
Previous coverage:
• More than 260 bears are killed on first day of controversial N.J. bear hunt
• At least 150 bears are killed on first day of controversial N.J. bear hunt
• N.J. judge rejects attempt by bear hunt opponents to expand protests