The Florida black bear (Ursus americanus floridanus) is native to Florida. This distinctive mammal is a subspecies of the American black bear, found throughout the state. Its presence is a long-standing aspect of Florida’s natural heritage, adapting to the state’s diverse landscapes.
The Florida Black Bear
The Florida black bear is large-bodied, characterized by shiny black fur, a short tail, and often a brown muzzle. Some may display a white patch, known as a blaze, on their chest. Males weigh between 250 and 450 pounds, while females are smaller, ranging from 125 to 250 pounds; adults measure between 4 and 6 feet in length.
These bears are omnivores, with their diet largely plant matter (about 80%), including berries, nuts, and fruits. Insects comprise about 15% of their diet, and animal matter, such as carrion or small creatures, makes up the remaining 5%. They are shy and reclusive, preferring solitary lives except during mating season or when females are raising cubs. They have an excellent sense of smell, keen hearing, and good eyesight, and are adept climbers and swimmers. While bears in colder climates hibernate, Florida black bears enter a state of “winter lethargy,” where they are less active but do not fall into a deep sleep.
History and Recovery
Historically, black bears were widespread across the entire Florida mainland, including some of the upper Florida Keys, with an estimated population of around 11,000 before European settlement. Their numbers declined significantly by the mid-20th century, primarily due to habitat loss from increasing human development and unregulated hunting.
Recognizing their dwindling numbers, the Florida black bear was designated as a state-listed Threatened species in 1974. Decades of conservation efforts, including habitat restoration and public awareness, contributed to their recovery. By 2012, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reclassified the Florida black bear as a “Recovered” species.
Current Distribution and Numbers
The Florida black bear population has rebounded significantly, with current estimates placing their numbers at approximately 4,000 to 4,050 individuals. Despite this increase, their present-day range covers about 45% to 51% of their historic territory, largely fragmented into several distinct subpopulations. Major populations are found in large wilderness areas and public lands, such as the Ocala National Forest, Big Cypress National Preserve, Apalachicola National Forest, and Osceola National Forest.
The FWC monitors and manages the bear population through various scientific methods. Biologists use genetic analysis from hair samples collected in corrals to identify individual bears and estimate their abundance. They track collared female bears to gather data on survival rates, litter sizes, and population growth. Public sightings and reports contribute to mapping their current distribution and understanding trends.
Living Alongside Bears
As human populations grow and development expands into bear habitats, encounters between people and bears are becoming more frequent. To coexist safely, secure all potential food attractants around homes and properties. This includes:
- Storing garbage in bear-resistant containers or secured enclosures.
- Bringing pet food indoors.
- Removing bird feeders or hanging them at least 10 feet high and 10 feet from structures.
- Cleaning outdoor grills after each use.
- Picking ripe fruit from trees.
These actions reduce attractions for bears.
If a bear is sighted, give it ample space and never approach or attempt to feed it. If a bear approaches, remaining standing, speaking in a calm, assertive voice, and backing away slowly is recommended. Actions such as clapping, raising arms, or throwing non-food objects can help intimidate a bear if it gets too close. Running, playing dead, or climbing a tree are not advised, since bears can run faster than humans and are excellent climbers. If a bear poses a threat to human safety, pets, or property, contact the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline.