Mixed Reactions News that an 8-year-old girl took the first black bear of Maryland’s bear-hunting season prompted a number of positive stories in the press, including a lengthy reaction piece in The Washington Post. However, it isn’t surprising that the Associated Press took the opportunity to seek a comment from the U.S. Humane Society for a follow-up story. While the AP’s story includes the hunting community’s views and efforts—located in the lower half—it spotlights the Humane Society’s efforts to establish stricter age requirements on hunting.