Many wonder if bears roam Alabama’s diverse landscapes. Understanding the state’s natural inhabitants and how humans coexist with them is a common interest.
Black Bear Presence in Alabama
Black bears are found in Alabama, with the American black bear (Ursus americanus) being the species present. Historically, these bears were widespread across the state. However, their populations faced significant decline due to unregulated hunting and habitat destruction, leading to their near extirpation by the early 20th century.
Black bears have made a natural return to Alabama, recolonizing the state through expansion from neighboring states and conservation efforts.
Where Black Bears Live and Their Numbers
Black bear populations in Alabama are primarily concentrated in two distinct regions. One established population resides in the southwestern part of the state, particularly in Baldwin, Mobile, and Washington counties. These bears are often classified as the Florida black bear subspecies (Ursus americanus floridanus).
A separate, growing population is found in northeast Alabama, in DeKalb, Cherokee, and Etowah counties, including areas like Lookout Mountain and the Talladega National Forest. These bears have recolonized from populations in northwest Georgia and are a different subspecies, Ursus americanus americanus. While the southwestern population is estimated to be between 85 and 160 bears, the northeastern group is smaller, around 30 to 40 individuals, but shows signs of expanding. Overall, the state’s black bear population is estimated to be around 200.
Black bears prefer mixed hardwood and pine forests with dense undergrowth for cover and food. They require large, undisturbed tracts of land to thrive.
Living Safely Alongside Black Bears
Coexisting with black bears involves understanding their behavior and taking preventative measures to avoid encounters. Bears are opportunistic foragers, attracted to easily accessible food sources. Securing household waste in bear-proof containers, bringing pet food indoors, and removing bird feeders when bears are active can significantly reduce attractants. Cleaning outdoor grills after use and collecting ripe fruit from trees also helps prevent bears from lingering in residential areas.
If an encounter with a black bear occurs, remaining calm is important. Do not run; this can trigger a chase response as black bears can run over 30 miles per hour. Instead, stand tall, make yourself appear as large as possible by waving your arms, and speak in a firm, assertive voice to identify yourself as human. Slowly back away, allowing the bear an escape route, and avoid direct eye contact.
Black bears are generally shy and avoid humans, with unprovoked attacks being rare. If a bear does charge, it is often a bluff to intimidate. If physical contact is made, fight back vigorously, targeting the bear’s snout and face. It is illegal to harm or kill black bears in Alabama unless in self-defense.