HAGERSTOWN, Md. (AP) — The Department of Natural Resources says Maryland’s black bear population has more than doubled since 2005 and it’s adjusting the hunting rules accordingly.

Wildlife biologist Harry Spiker said Friday that a population study done last year indicates at least 782 bears live in Garrett and Allegany counties, the only counties in which bear hunting is allowed. That’s up from 362 in a 2005 population study.