Hocking Hills, a popular destination in southeastern Ohio, is known for its rugged sandstone cliffs, deep gorges, and abundant natural beauty. Visitors often wonder if the region’s dense forests are home to larger wildlife, specifically bears. Black bears (Ursus americanus) are indeed present in the Hocking Hills region, making a gradual return to their historic range. While a sighting is a rare privilege, the possibility of encountering one is real, meaning awareness and preparation are necessary.
Current Status of Black Bears in Hocking Hills
Black bears were extirpated from Ohio by the mid-1800s due to hunting and habitat loss, but the population is now slowly recovering and expanding its range. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) confirms that bears are consistently sighted across the eastern and southeastern parts of the state, including Hocking, Vinton, and Ross counties. This region provides the ideal dense, forested habitat that black bears require, especially as they disperse from established populations in neighboring states like West Virginia and Pennsylvania. Most bears wandering into Hocking Hills are young, transient males searching for new territory, which accounts for their low density. Sightings have been increasing since 1993, with 285 sightings reported across 52 counties in 2022 alone. This trend indicates a growing presence, transitioning from purely transient visitors toward establishing a permanent foothold, though confirmed resident females with cubs remain uncommon.
Identifying Ohio’s Black Bear
The species found in Ohio is the American black bear, the smallest and most common bear species in North America. Despite the name, their fur color can vary significantly, ranging from black to chocolate brown or even a cinnamon hue. Adult males typically weigh between 200 and 400 pounds, while females average around 175 pounds. When on all fours, these bears stand about two and a half to three feet tall at the shoulder, but they can measure up to six feet when standing upright. A distinguishing feature is their facial profile, which is generally straight or “Roman-nosed.” Hikers can often identify a bear’s presence not by a sighting, but by signs like five-toed tracks, scat, or claw marks on trees where they have climbed.
Essential Bear Safety for Visitors and Residents
Coexisting safely with black bears requires practical steps to minimize human-bear conflicts, primarily by avoiding attractants. Bears possess a keen sense of smell, which they use to locate food, making proper food and garbage management the first line of defense. For campers, this means storing all food, cooking supplies, and scented items like toiletries in a bear-resistant canister or a locked, hard-sided vehicle. Residents should secure trash in a garage or bear-proof container until collection day and remove common attractants like pet food and bird feeders.
Trail Safety
When hiking, make noise by talking or singing, especially when moving through dense brush or around blind corners. This alerts bears to your presence and gives them time to move away, preventing a surprise encounter. Dogs should always be kept on a leash, as an unleashed dog can provoke a bear or lead it back to its owner.
If an encounter does occur, remain calm and never run, as this may trigger a chase response. Instead, speak in a low, calm voice to identify yourself as a human, stand your ground, and slowly wave your arms to appear larger.
Back away slowly while keeping your eyes on the bear, ensuring it has a clear escape route. If a black bear approaches or attacks, fight back aggressively, concentrating blows to the face or muzzle.