Bear Hunting Protest - Part I

Today I attended a Bear Hunt protest in New Jersey. Being a freelance photojournalist, I was able to use my press pass to gain access to areas the protesters are not allowed. I wanted to be an observer and not talk too much to anyone. I wanted my camera to capture what words could not. Below are a few photos that, to me, are the most powerful. They are also available to view in my gallery.

Note: Apparently Gov. Murphy had promised to ban all bear hunting (when he was elected) but it turns out when he WAS elected, he ended up only banning it on State land. The protesters continue to come out during hunting season to voice their anger and disappointment.

The first bear I saw being brought in was a 69.5 lb. bear.

The first bear I saw being brought in was a 69.5 lb. bear.

For each bear brought in to the weigh station, a tooth is pulled to determine the age of the bear, the ear is tagged and a blood sample is taken.

For each bear brought in to the weigh station, a tooth is pulled to determine the age of the bear, the ear is tagged and a blood sample is taken.

This was the second bear brought in while I was there. It was guesstimated that this bear was about 6 years old.

This was the second bear brought in while I was there. It was guesstimated that this bear was about 6 years old.

The bear weighed in at 510 lbs.

The bear weighed in at 510 lbs.

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